PM Modi Hoists Flag at Ram Temple in Ayodhya Ceremony

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November 25, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the Dhwajarohan (flag hoisting) ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the temple’s completion.

The event coincided with Vivah Panchami, observed as the ceremonial wedding anniversary of Lord Ram and Sita according to Hindu tradition.

आज अयोध्या नगरी भारत की सांस्कृतिक चेतना के एक और उत्कर्ष-बिंदु की साक्षी बन रही है। श्री राम जन्मभूमि मंदिर के शिखर ध्वजारोहण उत्सव का यह क्षण अद्वितीय और अलौकिक है। सियावर रामचंद्र की जय! https://t.co/4PPt0rEnZy
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 25, 2025

Ceremony Details and Attendees

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, religious leaders, government officials, and members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust attended the ceremony alongside over 8,000 invited guests. The ritual marked the opening of all 44 doors of the temple for worship activities.

During his address, PM Modi stated: “This dharma dhwaj (religious flag) will serve as an inspiration; life may be lost but promises must not be broken, meaning that what is said must be done.”

Prior to the main ceremony, PM Modi offered prayers at the Sapt Mandir, a newly constructed structure within the temple complex.

Ritual Significance and Distinction

Temple priests describe the Dhwajarohan as representing the spiritual activation of the entire temple structure. However, it differs fundamentally from the Pran Pratishtha ceremony conducted on January 22, 2024, which consecrated the Ram Lalla idol and initiated daily worship while construction continued.

The Dhwajarohan specifically marks the architectural and ritual completion of the temple building itself, signifying the structure’s sovereignty rather than focusing on the deity.

Flag Specifications and Symbolism

The saffron flag incorporates multiple symbolic elements. The sun represents Lord Ram’s Suryavansh lineage, while the Om symbol denotes spiritual significance. The flag features imagery of the Kovidar tree, described as a hybrid of Mandar and Parijat in the Valmiki Ramayana, symbolizing purity and prosperity.

An Ahmedabad-based parachute manufacturing firm constructed the flag over 25 days using parachute-grade fabric and premium silk threads. Weighing 11 kilograms, the flag was designed in consultation with senior Army officials to withstand environmental conditions including sun exposure, rain, and strong winds.

Official Reception

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel received PM Modi at the airport upon his arrival in Ayodhya. The Prime Minister subsequently conducted a roadshow through the city, with crowds gathering along the route.

The ceremony represents a major phase in the temple’s development following years of construction and legal proceedings surrounding the site.

Maruti Dzire Leads India’s Sedan Sales in October 2025

By

Alina Khan

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November 25, 2025

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India’s sedan segment recorded strong sales during October 2025, driven by festive season demand and manufacturer incentives. The Maruti Suzuki Dzire maintained its position as the country’s best-selling sedan, while several models showed varying year-on-year performance.

Sedan Class Top Performers

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire led the sedan segment with 20,791 units sold in October 2025, representing a 63.73 percent year-on-year increase from 12,698 units in October 2024.

The Hyundai Aura secured second position with 5,815 units sold during the month. The Honda Amaze followed in third place with 3,630 units, while the Volkswagen Virtus recorded sales of 2,453 units to claim fourth position.

Mid-Segment Sales

The Skoda Slavia registered 1,648 units in October 2025, showing marginal 0.67 percent year-on-year growth from 1,637 units in October 2024.

Tata Tigor, including both internal combustion engine and electric variants, recorded combined sales of 1,196 units in October 2025, an increase of 926 units from the previous year, representing 29.16 percent year-on-year growth.

Declining Models

Two established sedans experienced year-on-year sales declines. The Hyundai Verna sold 824 units in October 2025 compared to 1,004 units in October 2024, marking a decline in sales volume.

The Honda City recorded 578 units in October 2025, down from 1,004 units in the same month last year, representing a 42.43 percent year-on-year decrease.

Premium Segment

The Toyota Camry, positioned in the premium sedan category, sold 276 units in October 2025, up from 176 units in October 2024, showing 57 percent year-on-year growth.

Market Context

The October sales figures reflect festive season buying patterns, a period traditionally associated with increased automobile purchases in India. Manufacturers offered various discounts and incentives during this period to capitalize on heightened consumer demand.

While sport utility vehicles continue to dominate global automobile markets, sedans maintain a substantial market presence in India across multiple price segments, from entry-level models to premium offerings.

The data indicates differentiated performance across sedan models, with entry-level and premium segments showing growth while some mid-segment models experienced declining sales compared to the previous year.

Labour Law Reforms Could Generate 7.7 Million Jobs, Says SBI Report

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Alina Khan

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November 25, 2025

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India’s new labour codes, which consolidated 29 existing labour laws into four comprehensive codes, could reduce unemployment by up to 1.3 percent over the medium term, according to a State Bank of India report released recently. The reforms came into effect on November 21, 2025.

Employment Generation Projections

The SBI report projects that the labour reforms could generate employment for approximately 7.7 million (77 lakh) additional workers. This assessment is calculated based on the current labour force participation rate of 60.1 percent for individuals aged 15 years and above, and an average working-age population of 70.7 percent across rural and urban areas.

The report stated: “India’s new Labour Codes after a short transition phase could reduce unemployment by upto 1.3 per cent over the medium term. This would imply additional employment generation of 77 lakh people.”

Formalisation and Social Security Coverage

According to the analysis, implementation of the labour codes will increase formalisation in the workforce by at least 15 percent. This would raise the proportion of formal workers to 75.5 percent from the current estimated 60.4 percent, based on Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data.

The report indicates that social sector coverage could expand to 85 percent, with overall social security coverage expected to reach 80-85 percent within the next 2-3 years.

Impact on Unorganised Sector Workers

India currently has approximately 440 million workers in the unorganised sector, with nearly 310 million registered on the e-Shram portal. The report assumes that 20 percent of these workers could transition from informal to formal payroll, directly benefiting around 100 million individuals through improved job security, social protection, and formal employment benefits.

Economic Implications

With an assumed savings rate of approximately 30 percent, the reforms could increase consumption by around Rs 66 per person daily following implementation. The report projects this would result in an overall consumption boost of Rs 75,000 crore over the medium term, potentially stimulating domestic spending and economic growth.

Four Labour Codes

The reforms merged existing legislation into four codes: The Code on Wages, 2019; The Code on Social Security, 2020; The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020; and The Industrial Relations Code, 2020. These codes aim to simplify labour regulations and improve workplace governance for both workers and enterprises.

YouTube Music Launches 2025 Recap Feature with AI-Powered Insights

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Alina Khan

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November 25, 2025

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YouTube Music has begun rolling out its annual 2025 Recap feature to users globally, providing personalized statistics on their listening activity throughout the year. The feature is now accessible on both iOS and Android platforms.

YouTube Music Availability and Access

Multiple users have reported receiving access to the feature, with confirmations appearing on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit. Users can access the Recap through a banner displayed within the app or by navigating to their profile picture and selecting “Your Recap” from the menu.

The YouTube feature displays information in a story-style format, beginning with total listening time and progressing through various statistical categories including most-played tracks, top albums, preferred genres, and podcast listening data.

Key Features and Data Points

The 2025 Recap includes several analytical components. A calendar view tracks daily listening patterns for specific artists, while a “musical passport” feature identifies the geographic origins of users’ most-streamed artists. The platform aggregates data across multiple categories, allowing users to view their consumption patterns by artist, album, genre, and podcast content.

Individual statistics cards can be downloaded and shared across social media platforms, enabling users to display their listening preferences publicly.

AI Integration

This year’s edition introduces an artificial intelligence assistant accessible through the “Ask anything about your 2025” feature. The AI-powered chatbot responds to user queries about their listening habits with personalized analysis and commentary.

Sample prompts include requests to “Invent five genres to describe my listening,” “What is the oldest song I listened to,” “Guess my Zodiac sign based on my 2025 listening,” and “How did my listening change over the past year?” The feature aims to provide conversational insights beyond standard statistical summaries.

Industry Context

YouTube Music’s Recap release precedes the expected launch of Spotify’s annual Wrapped feature, anticipated within the coming weeks. Apple Music operates a different model, offering monthly Replay statistics throughout the year along with an annual overview.

The competitive landscape of music streaming platforms has increasingly emphasized year-end analytics as a user engagement tool, with personalized statistics becoming a standard offering across major services. These features serve both as marketing tools and retention mechanisms within the subscription-based streaming industry.

Tata Motors Launches All-New Sierra SUV After 3-Decade Hiatus – Deets Inside

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Alina Khan

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November 25, 2025

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Tata Motors is set to unveil the all-new Sierra SUV today, marking the return of the nameplate after being discontinued in the early 2000s. The vehicle was previously displayed in production form at the company’s Sierra Day event and is now positioned to compete in the midsize SUV segment.

Market Positioning and Booking Details

The 2025 Sierra will slot above the Curvv in Tata’s internal combustion engine SUV lineup. The company has opened bookings for Rs 21,000 as it prepares to compete against established rivals including the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Victors.

Design Features and Recognition

The exterior retains the original Sierra’s boxy silhouette while incorporating modern design elements. Key features include flush glazing, a panoramic sunroof, connected LED daytime running lights, projector headlamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, and flush door handles. The vehicle has received the Red Dot Design Award for its aesthetic execution.

Interior Configuration and Technology

The cabin adopts Tata’s “Life Space” philosophy, offering two distinct layouts depending on variant. Top-spec models feature the TheatrePro triple-screen setup with a unified glass panel housing the driver display, infotainment system, and passenger screen. Mid-level variants receive a dual-screen configuration with a digital instrument cluster and heads-up display.

Standard equipment across variants includes dual-zone climate control, powered and ventilated front seats, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera system, and electronic parking brake. The audio system comprises a 12-speaker JBL setup with Dolby Atmos and features a SonicShaft soundbar. Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are included for enhanced safety.

Powertrain Options

Tata Motors will offer three engine choices: a new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing an estimated 160-170 bhp and 250-280 Nm of torque, a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol for entry variants, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Both manual and automatic transmissions will be available. An electric variant is planned for future introduction.

Pricing and Availability

Tata Motors will announce pricing later today, with market expectations placing the Sierra between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom). Six exterior color option

Delhi AQI Remains in ‘Very Poor’ Category as Work-from-Home Mandate Imposed

By

Alina Khan

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November 25, 2025

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Delhi AQI remained in the ‘very poor’ category on Tuesday, recording an overall AQI of 363, showing marginal improvement from the previous day. However, multiple monitoring stations crossed into the ‘severe’ zone, prompting authorities to enforce Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan.

Critical AQI Levels Across Monitoring Stations

Rohini recorded the capital’s highest AQI at 416 as of 8 am Tuesday, placing it firmly in the severe category. Anand Vihar followed with an AQI of 401, while both Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur registered readings of 400. Several other monitoring stations approached the severe threshold of 400, indicating widespread hazardous air quality across the city.

NCR Cities Report Deteriorating AQI

The National Capital Region continued to experience toxic air conditions. Noida recorded an AQI of 390 in the very poor category, though this marked an improvement from Saturday when the city had entered the severe zone. Ghaziabad reported an AQI of 348, while Gurugram stood at 311, both in the very poor range. Faridabad fared relatively better with an AQI of 222, though still classified as poor.

Volcanic Ash Adds to Air Quality Concerns

Air quality monitoring agencies have detected a plume of volcanic ash from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano reaching Delhi. The volcano erupted on Monday for the first time in approximately 12,000 years. Experts warn this development could further intensify smog conditions in the national capital region.

Government Implements Work-from-Home Protocol

In response to deteriorating Delhi AQI, authorities have mandated that government offices and all private establishments operate at 50 percent staff capacity. The remaining workforce must work from home under Stage 3 GRAP measures. The directive, issued in Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena’s name, requires private offices to ensure only half their staff are physically present while others “mandatorily” work remotely.

Essential services including hospitals, private healthcare facilities, fire departments, public transportation, and water and sanitation operations remain exempt from these restrictions, ensuring critical services continue uninterrupted during the air quality emergency.

Bollywood Icons Pay Tribute as Veteran Actor Dharmendra Passes Away at 89

By

Alina Khan

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November 25, 2025

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Veteran actor Dharmendra, known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” passed away at his Mumbai residence on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The actor had been experiencing age-related health issues and had reduced his public appearances in recent months.

Industry Pays Homage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dharmendra’s death as marking “the end of an era in Indian cinema,” calling him “a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played”.

Actor Akshay Kumar remembered the late star, writing: “Growing up, Dharmendra ji was the hero every boy wanted to be—our industry’s original He-Man. Thank you for inspiring generations. You’ll live on through your films and the love you spread. Om Shanti.”

Southern cinema star Jr NTR expressed his condolences: “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dharmendra ji… An era he defined can never be replaced and the warmth he brought to Indian cinema will stay with us forever.”

Tributes from Co-Stars

Farhan Akhtar posted a heartfelt message acknowledging Dharmendra’s six-decade career spanning over 300 films: “Thank you for six decades of entertainment. We are fortunate to have experienced your warmth, your kindness, your generosity, your charm, your intensity and your wit, on and off the screen.”

Filmmaker Karan Johar shared an emotional tribute, calling Dharmendra “the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema” and noting his “enigmatic screen presence.” He added: “Today there is a gaping hole in our industry a space that can never be filled by anyone.”

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, who worked with Dharmendra on the film Anupama, shared personal memories of the actor in an exclusive conversation with India Today TV.

Final Film Appearance

Dharmendra was last seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His final on-screen appearance will be in the war biopic Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda, scheduled for release on December 25, 2025.

The actor is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, second wife Hema Malini, and daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. In 2012, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, for his contribution to Indian cinema.

CJI Surya Kant Recalls Village Roots: 1st Haryana Native to Lead Supreme Court

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Alina Khan

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November 24, 2025

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Justice Surya Kant, sworn in as India’s 53rd Chief Justice, became the first person from Haryana to reach the country’s highest judicial office since the Supreme Court’s 1950 inauguration. Speaking from his childhood home in Petwar, Hisar, the first-generation lawyer reflected on his distinguished four-decade career.

Humble Beginnings of CJI Surya Kant

“All my childhood memories are connected to this house. I was born here,” he said while sitting on a ‘khatiya’, a traditional village bed. Born February 10, 1962, to a middle-class family, Chief Justice Kant recalled being sent to village school around age four.

“We used to walk from this house through these streets to the village school with the schoolbag in our hands. All my childhood games and studies are connected to this village and the nearby areas,” he stated.

Dedicated Study Habits

He showed media his 6-by-8-foot study room where he studied with three classmates. “Our teachers had a hope that all four of us would be able to perform well in school. So, we were always encouraged to study together at night,” he said.

Before examinations, English teacher Prem Singh had them shift to the school building: “We used to have food from home and go to school at night. And that teacher used to teach us different subjects till 11 or 12 at night.”

With limited electricity supply, they relied on clay lamps for studying.

Unexpected Career Path

Asked if he ever imagined becoming Chief Justice after growing up harvesting crops, he replied: “No, definitely not. At that time, I didn’t even know what the judiciary was and what the role of a judge was in it.”

Despite family pressure for immediate employment after matriculation, his parents supported his decision to pursue law. “My brothers wanted me to do an MA in Geography, because that was my subject. But I was determined to do law. So, my parents stood by me and told me to do whatever I wanted.”

Professional Rise

Starting practice in Hisar district court in 1984, he moved to Chandigarh in 1985 after senior advocates recognized his potential. “I earned my name in the profession very soon. And after five to six years of practice, the whole state knew that I was a successful lawyer.”

He became Haryana’s youngest Advocate General in July 2000, was appointed Himachal Pradesh High Court Chief Justice in 2018, and elevated to Supreme Court judge in 2019 before succeeding Justice BR Gavai.

6 Killed, 28 Injured in Head-On Bus Collision in Tamil Nadu’s Tenkasi District

By

Alina Khan

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November 24, 2025

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Tamil Nadu: Six people died and 28 were injured in a head-on collision involving two private buses in Tamil Nadu’s Tenkasi district Monday. The devastating crash triggered a massive rescue operation by local authorities and firefighters.

Tamil Nadu Accident Details

According to police, a private bus traveling from Madurai to Senkottai collided with another heading from Tenkasi towards Kovilpatti. The impact left both vehicles mangled, requiring extensive emergency response efforts.

Preliminary Investigation Findings

A senior police officer told media that preliminary investigation reveals the Keysar bus heading from Madurai to Senkottai was driving recklessly. “Investigators believe speeding and negligent driving by the Keysar bus driver caused the crash,” officials stated.

Casualties and Medical Response

All 28 injured passengers are receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. Health officials at the scene said the condition of some victims remains serious, adding that the death count is likely to increase as medical teams continue treating critically injured patients.

Ongoing Investigation

Police have launched a detailed investigation into the incident, examining CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts to establish the exact sequence of events leading to the collision.

Road Safety Concerns

The accident highlights persistent road safety concerns in Tamil Nadu, particularly regarding private bus operations on inter-district routes. Speeding, driver fatigue, and inadequate vehicle maintenance have been identified as recurring factors in similar accidents across the state.

Emergency Response

Local authorities mobilized quickly following the crash, with firefighters working to extract trapped passengers from the severely damaged buses. The emergency response coordination between police, fire services, and medical teams proved critical in evacuating injured passengers to nearby medical facilities.

Legal Action Expected

Police are expected to file charges against the Keysar bus driver and potentially the transport company under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and Motor Vehicles Act, pending completion of the investigation. Authorities are also examining whether the buses held valid permits and passed required safety inspections.

The tragedy underscores the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and enhanced safety protocols for private bus operators across Tamil Nadu, where similar accidents have claimed numerous lives in recent years.

Tamil Nadu transport authorities may face pressure to implement more rigorous safety audits and driver training programs following this latest fatal collision.

A Treat for Fans: Dharmendra’s Ikkis Poster Released During His Recovery

By

Alina Khan

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November 24, 2025

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Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, will hit theatres December 25, the makers announced Monday. The film chronicles India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, martyred at 21 during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

New Poster Features Dharmendra

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Maddock Films (@maddockfilms)

The makers shared a new poster featuring veteran actor Dharmendra, who portrays Khetarpal’s father. The caption read: “Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations. Dharmendra ji, an emotional powerhouse as the father of a 21-year-old immortal soldier. One timeless legend brings us the story of another.”

‘Ikkis’ Release Announcement

The team shared the update on Instagram with a poster revealing the release date. The caption stated: “On 25th December, bravery marches into cinemas. Witness the untold true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra hero. #IkkisTrailerOutNow – Link in bio. #Ikkis in cinemas worldwide this Christmas.”

Production Details

Ikkis is produced by Maddock Films under Dinesh Vijan, directed by Sriram Raghavan, and written by Raghavan alongside Arijit Biswas and Pooja Ladha Surti. The cast also includes Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikander Kher.

Lead Actor’s Background

Agastya Nanda, who made his acting debut in 2023 with The Archies, plays Arun Khetarpal in the biographical war drama. The role represents a significant departure from his debut, transitioning from a coming-of-age ensemble film to a solo lead portraying a decorated war hero.

Historical Context

Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was martyred at 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. He was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra—India’s highest military decoration—becoming the youngest recipient of the honor at that time.

The Battle of Basantar, fought December 16-17, 1971, in the Shakargarh sector, was a crucial engagement during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Khetarpal’s bravery during the battle, where he destroyed several enemy tanks before being fatally wounded, became legendary in Indian military history.

Christmas Release Strategy

The December 25 release positions Ikkis for the lucrative Christmas holiday period, traditionally a strong box office window in India. The patriotic war drama aims to attract audiences seeking inspirational biographical content during the festive season.

The film marks director Sriram Raghavan’s return after previous critically acclaimed thrillers, representing his first biographical war film.

NewsWeekPRO

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Ceremony Details and Attendees

Ritual Significance and Distinction

Flag Specifications and Symbolism

Official Reception

Sedan Class Top Performers

Mid-Segment Sales

Declining Models

Premium Segment

Market Context

Employment Generation Projections

Formalisation and Social Security Coverage

Impact on Unorganised Sector Workers

Economic Implications

Four Labour Codes

YouTube Music Availability and Access

Key Features and Data Points

AI Integration

Industry Context

Market Positioning and Booking Details

Design Features and Recognition

Interior Configuration and Technology

Powertrain Options

Pricing and Availability

Critical AQI Levels Across Monitoring Stations

NCR Cities Report Deteriorating AQI

Volcanic Ash Adds to Air Quality Concerns

Government Implements Work-from-Home Protocol

Industry Pays Homage

Tributes from Co-Stars

Final Film Appearance

Humble Beginnings of CJI Surya Kant

Dedicated Study Habits

Unexpected Career Path

Professional Rise

Tamil Nadu Accident Details

Preliminary Investigation Findings

Casualties and Medical Response

Ongoing Investigation

Road Safety Concerns

Emergency Response

Legal Action Expected

New Poster Features Dharmendra

‘Ikkis’ Release Announcement

Production Details

Lead Actor’s Background

Historical Context

Christmas Release Strategy

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