The grand finale of Miss Universe India 2025 lit up Jaipur on Monday night with dazzling lights, music, and glamour as 48 contestants from across the country competed for the coveted crown. Amid cheers, confidence, and talent on display, Rajasthan’s daughter Manika Vishwakarma emerged as the winner, securing the title of Miss Universe India 2025.
Manika outshone her fellow contestants with grace, elegance, and confidence. Tanya Sharma was declared the first runner-up. The glittering event took place in Sitapura, Jaipur, where thousands of spectators witnessed the vibrant celebration of beauty and culture.
The finale was judged by Miss Universe India owner Nikhil Anand, actress and Miss Universe India 2015 Urvashi Rautela, and filmmaker Farhad Samji. Speaking at the event, Anand said Jaipur was chosen as the venue to highlight the city’s rich art and culture. Bharat 24 CEO Jagdish Chandra also graced the occasion.
The evening was not only about competition but also entertainment. Contestants and performers enthralled the audience with superhit songs including “Dheere Dheere Se Meri Zindagi Mein Aana”, “Rahon Mein Unse Mulakat Ho Gayi”, and “Tujhe Dekha To Yeh Jaana Sanam”. The crowd came alive when “Saiyyara” and the evergreen “Dama Dam Mast Kalandar” were performed, with the audience singing and dancing along.
Manika Vishwakarma will now represent India at the prestigious Miss Universe 2025 competition, scheduled to be held in Thailand on November 21, 2025. Her victory has not only brought pride to Rajasthan but also raised hopes for India to shine on the global platform.
This year’s pageant saw participants from multiple states, including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Odisha, West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhi. Each contestant showcased her individuality, but it was Manika’s confidence, presence of mind, and elegance that ultimately impressed the jury.
With her triumph, Manika joins the league of Indian beauty queens who have gone on to make a mark internationally. The entire nation now looks forward to her performance at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand, where she will carry the country’s pride and aspirations.
Zakir Khan isn’t just a comedian—he’s the voice of a generation. With his signature blend of humor, heartbreak, and honesty, he transformed everyday struggles into soulful stories that resonate deeply with Indian youth. Born in Indore and raised in a family of musicians, Zakir’s journey from small-town dreams to global recognition is nothing short of inspiring. He made history by becoming the first Indian to perform a full Hindi stand-up set at Madison Square Garden, proving that authenticity speaks louder than language barriers. His words don’t just make us laugh—they remind us that even the most ordinary lives are filled with extraordinary meaning
The Melody Before the Mic
Zakir Khan was born on August 20, 1987, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, into a family steeped in music and culture. His father, Ismail Khan, is a classical musician, and Zakir himself trained as a sitar player. His grandfather, Ustad Moinuddin Khan, was a revered Sarangi maestro. Zakir’s childhood was filled with ragas, rhythms, and the rawness of middle-class life—where dreams were often too expensive to afford, but never too small to nurture. He wasn’t the class topper. He wasn’t the loudest in the room. But he was the quiet observer—the one who noticed the cracks in conversations, the unsaid emotions, and the comedy hidden in tragedy.
Struggles: The Unseen Chapters
Zakir moved to Delhi to pursue a diploma in Sitar, but life had other plans. He faced rejection after rejection, worked odd jobs, and even considered giving up. He was broke, heartbroken, and invisible in a city that didn’t care. But he kept writing. Kept observing. Kept believing. His breakthrough came when he joined On Air with AIB as a writer. His raw, relatable humor caught attention, and soon he was performing stand-up. But it wasn’t just jokes—it was storytelling. It was therapy. It was truth wrapped in punchlines.
The Turning Point: “Sakht Launda” & Beyond
In 2016, Zakir’s stand-up special Haq Se Single exploded across the internet. His persona of the “sakht launda”—a guy who’s been through heartbreak but doesn’t show it—became a cultural phenomenon. Young Indians saw themselves in him. He wasn’t just making them laugh; he was healing them.
From there, his rise was meteoric:
Multiple sold-out tours across India and abroad
Amazon Prime specials like Kaksha Gyarvi and Tathastu
Creator of Farzi Mushaira, a poetic show blending humor and emotion
Actor and writer in Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare
And in 2022, the first Indian to perform a full Hindi set at Madison Square Garden—a moment that felt like every small-town dream had finally made it to the big city.
Why He More Than a Comedian
Zakir Khan is not just a performer. He’s a mirror to the Indian youth. His words speak of heartbreak, hustle, family pressure, failed dreams, and the beauty of resilience. He taught us that it’s okay to cry, okay to fail, and okay to laugh through it all. He made Hindi cool again. He made poetry relevant. He made vulnerability powerful.
And as he often says, “Log kehte hain ki asli mard dard nahi dikhata… par asli mard dard mehsoos karta hai.”
Zakir Khan is every broken heart that learned to smile again. Every middle-class boy who dared to dream. Every Indian youth who now believes that their story matters.
Today, photography is everywhere. A swipe, a tap, a filter — and suddenly, a moment is immortalized. From selfies to sunsets, it’s a daily ritual, a creative outlet, a favorite pastime. But rewind a century, and photography was anything but casual. It was a craft wrapped in complexity, a pursuit reserved for the privileged few — and almost exclusively men.
Imagine a time when cameras were bulky contraptions, film had to be developed in darkrooms, and society frowned upon women stepping beyond the domestic threshold. In that world, one woman dared to lift the lens and point it toward history. Her name was Annapurna Dutta, and she didn’t just take photographs — she shattered norms.
Who Was Annapurna Dutta?
Born in 1894 in undivided Bengal, Annapurna Dutta grew up in a society where women were expected to remain behind the purdah, confined to domestic life. At just 12 years old, she was married to Upendranath Dutta, a lawyer and amateur photographer. It was through him that she first encountered the magic of the camera — not as a passive observer, but as a curious learner. By the age of 25, Annapurna had mastered the art of photography and turned it into her profession. But unlike her male counterparts who operated studios, she didn’t own one. Instead, she traveled to the homes of affluent families, often photographing women who lived in seclusion. Her subjects were captured in their natural domestic environments — surrounded by loved ones, heirlooms, and tradition.
She developed and printed the photographs herself, often working late into the night. Her lens didn’t discriminate — she photographed Hindu and Muslim elites, including notable figures like Hassan Suhrawardy, Jasimuddin, and Abbas Uddin Ahmed.
The title : Photographer Mashima
In an era when women were rarely seen in professional spaces, Annapurna became known as “Photographer Mashima” — a respectful title that blended familial warmth with professional admiration. Her work was more than portraiture; it was a quiet rebellion. She gained access to spaces where even male photographers were denied entry, photographing women in purdah with grace and sensitivity.
Her most iconic image? A self-portrait, standing beside her plate camera, dressed in traditional attire, holding the lens cap — a symbol of her dual identity as a homemaker and a pioneer.
The Landscape of Female Photographers Today
Fast forward to the present, and the scene has transformed. Women photographers are now celebrated across genres — from fashion and wildlife to war journalism and documentary. Names like Homai Vyarawalla, Dayanita Singh, and Rathika Ramasamy have carved their own legacies. Yet, challenges remain. Gender bias, safety concerns, and unequal opportunities still shadow the industry. But thanks to trailblazers like Annapurna, the path is clearer, the lens more inclusive.
Annapurna Dutta didn’t just take photographs — she captured courage. Her story is a reminder that creativity often blooms in resistance. In a time when photography was a male-dominated fortress, she built her own doorway — not with bricks, but with light, shadow, and vision. So the next time you snap a photo, remember: behind that simple click lies a century of struggle, artistry, and the quiet defiance of a woman who saw the world differently — and dared to show it.
They say a single photograph is worth a thousand words, and indeed, a picture captures far more than just a moment—it holds memories, emotions, and stories that connect us to the past. World Photography Day, celebrated annually on August 19, is a tribute to this timeless art form that preserves laughter, mistakes, and cherished moments. It’s a day to honor the passion for photography, which allows us to freeze time and relive the beauty of life’s fleeting moments.
The Origins of World Photography Day
World Photography Day commemorates the historic announcement by the French government in 1839, when the Daguerreotype process—the first publicly available form of photography—was introduced to the world. This groundbreaking moment marked the birth of photography as we know it. Today, this global event unites photographers and enthusiasts worldwide, who come together to share their creations and celebrate their love for capturing life through a lens.
The 2025 Theme: “My Favorite Photo”
The theme for World Photography Day 2025, “My Favorite Photo,” invites photographers to share not just their best shots but also the personal stories behind them. This theme emphasizes the deep emotional connection between a photographer and their work. Whether it’s a candid snapshot of a loved one, a breathtaking landscape, or a moment of raw emotion, every photo tells a unique story that resonates with the heart.
Photography: More Than Just a Picture
Photography is not merely about clicking a shutter; it’s about preserving emotions and moments that might otherwise fade. A photograph can transport us back to a time when we laughed until our sides hurt, made mistakes that taught us valuable lessons, or met someone we may never see again. It’s a medium that immortalizes the human experience, connecting us to our past and to each other.
The Evolution of Photography
The journey of photography began in 1826 when Joseph Nicéphore Niépce created the world’s first photograph using a camera obscura and a tin plate. From that rudimentary invention to the cutting-edge mirrorless cameras of 2025, the art of photography has been driven by a relentless passion for innovation. The desire to capture memories, express love for nature, or play with the interplay of light has led to the development of countless cameras and techniques over the centuries. Each advancement has made photography more accessible, allowing people to document their lives with unprecedented clarity and creativity.
The India–United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) 2025 marks a significant step in bilateral economic relations, with a dedicated focus on digital trade. Chapter 12 of the pact outlines provisions that aim to expand digital cooperation while balancing regulatory oversight, opening fresh opportunities for businesses but also raising debates around digital sovereignty.
India–UK Digital Agreement
The digital trade chapter recognises electronic signatures and contracts, easing compliance for companies engaged in cross-border business. This is expected to streamline India’s $30 billion software export market by reducing paperwork and cutting transaction costs. Both countries also agreed to maintain zero customs duties on electronic transmissions, reinforcing the free flow of digital goods and services.
Importantly, the pact introduces regulatory sandboxes, encouraging experimentation by data-driven businesses and startups. This is being seen as a strategic move to integrate India more deeply into the global digital economy.
Key Digital Benefits
The agreement facilitates paperless documentation, e-invoicing, and smoother market access for SMEs. Indian IT companies will be able to participate in British public procurement, a sector that offers large opportunities. The inclusion of social security waivers for short-term assignments further reduces costs for employers and employees alike.
While the pact is primarily focused on services, Indian textile exports will also gain from tariff reductions, supporting regional economies. Together, these measures promise to create a more predictable and expansive trade corridor between India and the UK.
Concerns Over Digital Sovereignty
Despite the benefits, concerns remain. Critics argue that India has diluted its regulatory autonomy by restricting routine source-code inspections, allowing access only during investigations or legal proceedings. Although government procurement remains exempt, the limited scope for proactive oversight could hinder India’s ability to safeguard digital governance.
The agreement does include security exceptions to protect critical infrastructure, yet the absence of built-in monitoring mechanisms leaves questions about long-term digital sovereignty.
Strengthening Oversight
Experts suggest that India could mitigate risks by accrediting trusted laboratories to conduct sensitive code reviews under strict safeguards. Mandating audit trails for cross-border data flows would further enhance accountability. The agreement’s voluntary stance on open government data also requires a clearer policy framework to ensure transparency and reuse.
Currently, a formal review of digital trade rules is scheduled in five years. However, many experts recommend a shorter three-year cycle, allowing India and the UK to adapt to rapid technological advances, especially in fields such as artificial intelligence
I’ve always been fascinated by the way culture shapes our beliefs. The stories we hear growing up, the traditions we follow, and the symbols we recognise all influence how we see the world. In my case, I spent years exploring how different cultures talk about luck. From ancient myths to modern-day festivals, I found that every community has its own take on fortune and fate.
That curiosity led me to try something unexpected: online slots. At first, I saw them as pure entertainment, but the more I played—casually and in moderation—the more I noticed how they mirrored the randomness of life. When I discovered platforms like สล็อตเว็บตรง100%ไม่มีขั้นต่ำ, it felt like another cultural lens to explore. Just like the folklore I’d read, these games carried themes of unpredictability, patience, and hope.
Learning to Let Go of Control
One of the first lessons slot games taught me was to embrace uncertainty. In many cultures, there’s a recognition that not everything is within our control. Slot reels are a perfect metaphor for that idea. You can make a choice to play, but you can’t dictate the outcome. This mirrors real-life moments where you prepare as best you can, but results still depend on factors beyond you.
Playing with this mindset changed how I approached my daily routine. I stopped trying to micromanage every detail. Instead, I allowed room for surprises, both good and bad. The same way a winning spin can appear out of nowhere, so can opportunities in real life.
Patterns in the Random
Even though slots are designed to be random, our minds naturally look for patterns. This is something humans have been doing for centuries. Whether it’s tracking the stars or reading omens, we’ve always tried to find meaning in what appears to be chaos.
When I noticed myself doing this with slot reels, I started thinking about the cultural side of pattern recognition. In some traditions, recognising a pattern is seen as a form of wisdom. In others, it’s a reminder not to overthink chance events. Understanding that balance—between appreciating patterns and not letting them control me—was an important shift in perspective.
The Gratitude Factor
Another unexpected takeaway from playing was gratitude. A small win on a slot game might seem insignificant, but it can bring a little burst of happiness. That feeling reminded me of the way some cultures teach us to be thankful for even the smallest blessings.
In a world where we’re always chasing big achievements, slot games encouraged me to appreciate the little wins. Translating that into real life meant finding joy in everyday things: a good cup of coffee, a pleasant conversation, or a sunny afternoon. These moments may not change everything, but they make the journey brighter.
Lessons from Cultural Concepts of Luck
Different cultures have unique views on luck, but many share common threads. Here are a few that resonated with me while playing:
Luck as preparation meeting opportunity – In some cultures, luck isn’t just chance. It’s about being ready to act when a good moment arrives.
Luck as a cycle – Some traditions believe fortune moves in cycles. If you’re in a low phase, patience is key because the high will come.
Luck as shared energy – Certain communities see luck as something that grows when shared. Celebrating someone else’s good fortune can bring positive energy to all.
By seeing these ideas play out in a casual game, I began to notice them in daily life too.
Balancing Fun and Perspective
Slot games, when played responsibly, can be a fun way to explore concepts of chance and fortune. The key for me was balance. Just as in cultural traditions, where certain rituals are done in moderation, I set limits on my playtime. This kept it lighthearted and prevented it from becoming a distraction.
That balance also applied to how I thought about wins and losses. A loss wasn’t a failure, just part of the bigger pattern. And a win was a moment to enjoy, not a reason to expect more.
Why This Matters Beyond the Game
What started as casual curiosity turned into a small but meaningful learning experience. I realised that the lessons from both culture and chance apply far beyond gaming:
Life is unpredictable, and that’s okay.
Small wins are worth celebrating.
Letting go of control can be freeing.
Patterns are worth noticing, but they shouldn’t rule you.
By blending cultural wisdom with playful moments, I found a deeper appreciation for life’s randomness. That’s something I didn’t expect from spinning a few reels.
Exploring culture has always been a way for me to understand life. Adding the lens of chance through slot games gave me a fresh perspective. It reminded me that whether you’re following a centuries-old tradition or watching colourful reels spin on a screen, the underlying lessons can be surprisingly similar.
Luck isn’t something you can force, but it is something you can notice and appreciate. And sometimes, seeing it play out in the simplest of ways—a sudden win, a laugh shared with friends—can make it all the more real.
The 1Win app India stands out as a reliable and user-friendly platform for enthusiasts of online betting and casino games. Designed to offer a seamless and secure experience, the app combines a wide range of betting options with an intuitive interface, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned players.
Whether you’re interested in sports betting or exploring a variety of casino games, the 1Win app provides a comprehensive solution that caters to the diverse preferences of Indian users, ensuring convenience, safety, and excitement all in one place.
An Introduction to the 1Win Mobile App
The 1 Win app offers a comprehensive betting and casino experience tailored for users in India. For Android users, it is available as a dedicated app that can be easily downloaded and installed, while iOS users can access the platform via a Progressive Web App (PWA), ensuring smooth functionality without the need for a traditional app download. This approach ensures that all users enjoy fast, secure, and convenient access to a wide range of sports betting markets and casino games, optimized for mobile devices.
Features
Details
App Name
1Win Mobile App
Platform
Android App, iOS Progressive Web App (PWA)
Supported Markets
Sports Betting, Casino Games
Language Options
English, Hindi, and others
Payment Methods
UPI, NetBanking, e-Wallets, Cryptocurrency
Security
SSL Encryption, Two-factor Authentication
Compatibility
Android 5.0+ (App), Any iOS Version (PWA)
User Interface
Intuitive, Fast, and Responsive
1Win app download size
25 MB (1Win App Android)
1Win App Download and Installation Process
The 1Win app India is not available on the Google Play Store due to platform restrictions on betting apps. However, Android users can easily download the official 1Win APK directly from the 1Win website, while iOS users can use the Progressive Web App (PWA) version, which works seamlessly in Safari without needing a traditional app installation. The process for both platforms is quick and straightforward, ensuring that you can start betting or playing casino games in just a few minutes.
For Android Users
Follow these steps to perform 1Win original app download and install the app on your Android device:
Visit the Official Website – Open your mobile browser and go to the official 1Win download page.
Enable Unknown Sources – Go to Settings → Security → Install Unknown Apps and allow installation from your browser.
Download the APK File – Tap the download button to save the APK to your device.
Install the App – Open the downloaded file and tap Install.
Launch and Log In – Open the app, log in with your account, or create a new one to start using it.
For iOS Users
Since there’s no App Store download, follow these steps to set up 1Win’s Progressive Web Application (PWA):
Open Safari Browser – On your iPhone or iPad, launch the Safari browser to begin the setup.
Visit the Official Website – Go to the official 1Win website, where the PWA version for iOS is available.
Install the PWA – Tap the share icon (a square with an upward arrow) and choose “Add to Home Screen” from the list of options.
Launch the App from Home Screen – Once added, tap the new 1Win icon on your home screen to open and use it just like a regular app.
Interface, Design, and Performance Analysis
The 1Win official app offers a clean, modern design that blends aesthetics with functionality. The interface uses a dark theme with contrasting highlights, making it easy on the eyes during extended sessions. Key sections such as sports betting, live events, casino games, and account management are clearly displayed on the main navigation bar, ensuring that users can access essential functions without unnecessary scrolling or searching.
Performance-wise, the app runs smoothly with fast loading times, even on mid-range devices and average internet connections. Pages transition seamlessly, and live betting odds update in real time without lag. The intuitive layout allows both new and experienced users to place bets or launch games with minimal effort. Search and filter tools work efficiently, helping users quickly find events, games, or features they want. Overall, the app’s combination of sleek visuals, responsive performance, and logical navigation makes it a pleasure to use.
Core Features and Functionality
The 1Win mobile app combines a wide array of betting and gaming options into a single, streamlined platform. Whether you’re into sports betting, casino games, or unique quick-play formats, the app offers smooth access to all major sections, catering to the varied interests of Indian players. Below is an overview of its main features.
Sports Betting Functionality
The sports betting section of the 1Win bet app is extensive, covering both popular and niche sports from around the world. Indian players will appreciate the dedicated coverage of cricket, including IPL and international matches, alongside major football leagues like the English Premier League and La Liga. The platform supports pre-match and live betting, with real-time odds updates and a variety of bet types such as singles, accumulators, and system bets. Filtering options and event categorization make it easy to find the matches you want to bet on quickly.
Casino Gaming Features
The casino section offers a rich library of games from leading providers. Users can enjoy a vast selection of slots, classic table games, and a robust Live Casino environment. For Indian audiences, games such as Teen Patti and Andar Bahar are available alongside international favourites like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat. The interface allows instant switching between categories, and live dealer streams are high-quality and stable for an immersive gaming experience.
The Crash Game Selection (Aviator, Lucky Jet, etc.)
Crash games have become a fan favourite in recent years, and 1Win offers a strong selection, including popular titles like Aviator and Lucky Jet. These games are simple yet thrilling, allowing players to cash out at just the right moment to maximize winnings. Their fast-paced nature makes them ideal for quick gaming sessions, and the app’s responsive design ensures smooth gameplay without delays.
Dedicated Poker Room
1Win features a separate Poker Room where players can enjoy cash games, sit-and-go tables, and scheduled tournaments. The poker section is designed for both beginners and professionals, offering multiple formats and buy-in levels. Regular tournaments add a competitive edge, with prize pools that attract a vibrant community of poker enthusiasts.
TVBET and Quick Games
Beyond traditional betting and casino offerings, 1Win includes unique categories such as TVBET, which provides live, TV-style betting games, and Quick Games, which feature instant-win formats like lotteries, card draws, and fast table games. These sections offer variety for users who enjoy fast, dynamic gameplay and want something different from standard sports or casino options.
Account Management and Payment Methods
The 1Win mobile app offers a streamlined and user-friendly approach to account management, ensuring that players can easily handle all essential functions directly from their devices.
Registration and Login
New users can register within minutes by providing basic personal details such as name, email, and phone number. The app supports multiple sign-up methods, including quick registration through social media accounts. 1Win app login is equally straightforward, with options to save login details for faster access in the future.
Account Replenishment
Funding your account is hassle-free, with instant deposits available through popular Indian payment methods such as UPI and PayTM. Additional options include net banking, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrency, ensuring flexibility for different user preferences. Deposit transactions are processed instantly, allowing players to start betting or gaming without delay.
Withdrawal of Funds
The withdrawal process is designed to be secure and efficient. Players can request payouts directly within the app, using the same payment method used for deposits. Popular options like UPI and PayTM ensure that funds are received quickly, often within a few hours, depending on the payment provider. Enhanced security measures, including account verification, help protect user funds and personal information throughout the process.
Security and Legality for Indian Users
The 1Win mobile app prioritizes user safety by implementing advanced security protocols, including SSL encryption to protect sensitive data and two-factor authentication to safeguard accounts from unauthorized access. The APK file is completely safe to install as long as it is downloaded from the official 1Win website, ensuring it is free from malware or tampering.
1Win operates under a valid international gambling licence, issued by the Curaçao eGaming Authority, which regulates and oversees its activities. While online betting laws in India vary by state and remain a grey area at the national level, there is currently no federal law prohibiting Indian users from participating in offshore-licensed online betting platforms like 1Win. This means that, when used responsibly, the app provides Indian players with a secure and legitimate way to enjoy sports betting and casino gaming.
Summary of Findings: Key Advantages of the App
The 1Win mobile app delivers a complete and well-optimized platform for both sports betting and casino gaming, tailored to the needs of Indian players. It offers a modern, intuitive interface, smooth navigation, and fast performance across devices. With wide-ranging sports markets—including cricket and football—plus a diverse casino library featuring slots, live dealer games, crash games, and poker tournaments, it caters to a variety of player preferences.
Account management is straightforward, with quick registration, multiple secure payment options like UPI and PayTM, and efficient withdrawals. The app’s security measures, including SSL encryption and two-factor authentication, ensure user data and funds are well protected, while its Curaçao licence provides legitimacy in the global market.
Overall, 1Win stands out as a reliable, secure, and feature-rich solution for Indian users seeking a comprehensive betting and gaming experience on mobile.
FAQ about 1Win App
1. Is the 1Win app available on Google Play or the App Store?
No. Due to restrictions on betting apps, the 1Win app is not listed on Google Play or the App Store. Android users can download the 1Win APK from the official website, while iOS users can use the Progressive Web App (PWA) via Safari.
2. Is the 1Win APK safe to install on my device?
Yes. The APK is completely safe if downloaded from the official 1Win website. It is free from malware and verified by the operator.
3. What payment methods are supported in India?
The app supports UPI, PayTM, NetBanking, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency for deposits and withdrawals, offering fast and secure transactions.
4. Can I bet on cricket and football using the app?
Absolutely. The 1Win app offers extensive markets for cricket (including IPL) and football (including major international leagues), with both pre-match and live betting options.
5. Does the app offer casino games?
Yes. The 1Win official site includes a large casino section with slots, live dealer games, crash games like Aviator, and Indian favourites such as Teen Patti and Andar Bahar.
In a groundbreaking move to prevent animal cruelty and enhance safety, a historic temple in Kerala’s Kodungallur has adopted a life-size mechanical elephant named ‘Thaleeswaran’. The Nediyathali Sri Siva temple has taken a significant step towards modernizing its traditions by embracing technology.
The Mechanical Elephant
The 3-meter-tall, 800-kilogram robot elephant was gifted to the temple by PETA India and Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff. This innovative solution aims to reduce the suffering of live elephants in captivity, which often face harsh training and poor living conditions.
A Humane Approach
Kerala’s laws require elephants to rest for at least 12 hours after parading for 5 hours, and 5 hours of rest after traveling. However, despite these regulations, elephants have been known to suffer in captivity. The mechanical elephant is a step towards a more humane approach, ensuring the safety and well-being of both humans and animals.
A Precedent for Other Temples
The Nediyathali Sri Siva temple’s decision to adopt a mechanical elephant sets a precedent for other temples in Kerala. PETA India has already donated 10 mechanical elephants to various temples, highlighting the growing trend towards more compassionate and safe practices.
Thaleeswaran: The mechanical elephant is 3 meters tall and weighs 800 kilograms.
PETA India’s Initiative: The organization has donated 11 mechanical elephants to temples across India.
Safety and Compassion: The mechanical elephant ensures the safety and well-being of both humans and animals.
Kerala’s Laws: Elephants are required to rest for at least 12 hours after parading for 5 hours, and 5 hours of rest after traveling.
The Nediyathali Sri Siva temple’s adoption of a mechanical elephant marks a significant step towards a more humane and safe approach to temple traditions. This innovative solution sets a precedent for other temples and highlights the importance of compassion and technology in preserving cultural heritage.
In a sport long dominated by men, where the roar of the crowd often drowns out the quiet triumphs of trailblazers, one woman is about to rewrite the script. Shathira Jakir Jessy, a former cricketer turned umpire, will stride onto the field this September in India—not just with a rulebook in hand, but with the hopes of a nation on her shoulders. At 34 years old, she will become the first Bangladeshi woman to officiate at a senior ICC World Cup, shattering ceilings and setting a precedent for generations to come.
In a groundbreaking moment for Bangladeshi cricket, Shathira Jakir Jessy is set to become the first woman from the country to officiate at a senior ICC World Cup. The 34-year-old former cricketer will take the field as an umpire at the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled to begin in India on September 30.
Jessy’s appointment marks a significant milestone not only for Bangladesh but for the broader cricketing community striving for greater gender representation in officiating roles. Her journey from national player to international umpire has been one of dedication, resilience, and trailblazing ambition.
A Career Built on Experience and Excellence
Before earning her spot at the senior World Cup, Jessy built an impressive umpiring résumé:
Officiated at the Under-19 Asia Cup
Served as an umpire during the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia
Participated in the Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifiers held earlier this year in Pakistan
Oversaw matches in the Bangladesh Emerging Team’s home series against South Africa
Her consistent performance and calm authority on the field have earned her respect across borders and paved the way for this historic opportunity.
Jessy has long been an advocate for women’s participation in cricket beyond the boundary ropes. Her transition from player to umpire reflects a broader shift in the sport, where women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in coaching, commentary, and officiating. “This is not just my achievement—it’s a win for every Bangladeshi girl who dreams of being part of the game,” Jessy said in a recent interview. “I hope this inspires more women to step into roles that were once considered out of reach.”
A Global Stage Awaits
As the cricketing world turns its attention to India for the Women’s ODI World Cup, Jessy’s presence will be a proud moment for Bangladesh. Her journey symbolizes progress, representation, and the breaking of long-standing barriers in sports. With her sharp eye and deep understanding of the game, Jessy is poised to make her mark—not just as an umpire, but as a pioneer.
Prashant Kishor was born in Sasaram, Bihar, around 1976–77. His father, Dr. Shrikant Pandey, practiced medicine while his mother, Sushila Pandey, managed the household. He completed schooling in Buxar and enrolled at Patna Science College before moving to Hindu College, Delhi University, for statistics. Health concerns interrupted his time in Delhi, but he later earned a postgraduate degree in Hyderabad. These formative experiences in rural Bihar and diverse academic settings honed his analytical skills and social sensitivity.
United Nations and Public Health Work
Kishor spent eight years working on UN-funded public health programmes, notably India’s polio eradication drive. He combined grassroots mobilization with data analytics to track and boost immunization rates. A stint at the UN headquarters in the United States broadened his global outlook, and he later led a division in Chad, building logistics networks for vaccine distribution. These roles cemented his belief in evidence-driven planning and community engagement—pillars of his later political strategy.
Entry into Electoral Strategy
Kishor’s strategic breakthrough came in the 2012 Gujarat Assembly election, where he joined Narendra Modi’s re-election campaign pro bono. He introduced micro-targeting, customized messaging, and unconventional outreach tactics that reshaped campaign norms. The victory he engineered demonstrated how voter sentiment could be moved with disciplined ground operations and finely tuned narratives, earning him national acclaim as a game-changer in Indian politics.
Citizens for Accountable Governance and the 2014 Campaign
In 2013, Kishor co-founded Citizens for Accountable Governance (CAG) to prepare for the 2014 general election. CAG popularized “Chai Pe Charcha” town-hall discussions, where Modi engaged ordinary citizens over tea. They pioneered 3D hologram rallies, hosted mass “Run for Unity” events, and launched a targeted social-media blitz. The result was a landslide win for the Bharatiya Janata Party, securing its first absolute majority in three decades and cementing Kishor’s reputation.
I-PAC and State-Level Victories
Building on CAG’s template, Kishor founded the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) in 2014. Over the next decade, I-PAC steered campaigns across India:
Bihar 2015: Nitish Kumar’s “Saat Nischay” development agenda led to a decisive win.
Delhi 2020: Aam Aadmi Party’s focus on urban governance delivered a second term.
Andhra Pradesh 2019: Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s welfare-centric campaign unseated the incumbent.
West Bengal 2021: Mamata Banerjee defied national trends to secure re-election.
Tamil Nadu 2021: M. K. Stalin’s grassroots alliances translated into victory.
The only major setback was Congress’s loss in the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls despite Kishor’s inputs.
Political Career and the Jan Suraaj Party
In September 2018, Kishor took the plunge into active politics as JD(U) vice-president and advisor to Nitish Kumar on programme implementation. A two-year padyatra across Bihar deepened his direct engagement with rural voters. On October 2, 2022, he launched the Jan Suraaj Party to offer a “third alternative” focused on education, employment, and elder care. This shift from strategist to front-line politician underscored his commitment to policy-driven governance.
Criticisms and Controversies
Kishor’s high-profile role has invited scrutiny. In 2019, critics questioned his simultaneous work for JD(U) and West Bengal’s Trinamool Congress. During the 2020 Bihar campaign, allegations surfaced of intellectual property misuse regarding campaign material—claims Kishor and his legal team have dismissed as politically motivated. His juggling of multiple clients continues to spark debate over strategy ethics in Indian politics.
Legacy and Impact
Prashant Kishor transformed Indian electioneering by institutionalizing data-driven, voter-centric campaigns. He shifted focus from mass rallies to segmented outreach, real-time feedback loops, and performance metrics. Today, his methods are standard practice across party lines, raising the bar for campaign professionalism. As the Jan Suraaj Party gains momentum, Kishor’s influence on political participation and governance offers a compelling glimpse into the future of Indian democracy.
