Kerala

Kerala University Orders MBA Re-Examination Following Answer Sheet Mishap

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Kerala University Orders MBA Answer Sheet

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: Kerala University has announced a re-examination for a batch of MBA students after a significant number of answer sheets from a recent semester examination were reported missing. The decision, which has sparked widespread concern among students and faculty, comes in the wake of an internal investigation that confirmed the loss of the crucial evaluation documents. The incident, which came to light last week, involved answer sheets from the third-semester MBA examinations held in December 2023. The university’s examination wing discovered the discrepancy during the routine evaluation process, leading to an immediate halt of the proceedings. Initial reports suggested that the missing answer sheets belonged to students from multiple affiliated colleges under the university. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal, addressing a press conference, stated that the university is treating the matter with utmost seriousness. “The loss of answer sheets is a grave lapse, and we are committed to ensuring fairness and transparency in the re-examination process,” he said. “We understand the anxiety and distress this has caused to the students, and we are working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.” The university has formed a high-level committee to conduct a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the loss of the answer sheets. This committee, comprising senior faculty members and administrative officials, is tasked with identifying the lapses in the handling and storage of the answer scripts, and recommending measures to prevent such incidents in the future. “Our primary concern is to safeguard the academic interests of the affected students,” Dr. Kunnummal emphasized. “The re-examination will be conducted with strict adherence to all protocols, and we will ensure that the students are not unduly burdened by this unfortunate incident.” The university has released a tentative schedule for the re-examination, which is expected to be conducted within the next few weeks. Detailed information regarding the dates, timings, and venues will be communicated to the students through their respective colleges and the university’s official website. Students, however, have expressed their frustration and concern over the delay and the potential impact on their academic progress. Many have highlighted the mental stress and financial burden associated with preparing for and attending a re-examination. “This is incredibly frustrating,” said Anjali Nair, an MBA student from a Thiruvananthapuram-based college. “We had put in a lot of effort for the original exam, and now we have to go through the entire process again. This delay will affect our placement opportunities and further studies.” Faculty members have also voiced their concerns about the administrative lapses that led to the loss of the answer sheets. They have called for a comprehensive overhaul of the university’s examination system to ensure the security and integrity of the evaluation process. “This incident highlights the need for stricter protocols in the handling and storage of answer sheets,” said Professor Rajesh Kumar, a faculty member from the university’s management studies department. “We need to implement a robust tracking system and ensure that there are multiple layers of security to prevent such incidents from recurring.” The university administration has acknowledged the need for systemic reforms and has assured that the recommendations of the inquiry committee will be implemented promptly. They have also emphasized their commitment to providing adequate support to the affected students during the re-examination process. In an effort to mitigate the students’ concerns regarding potential delays in their academic progression, the university has also clarified that the re-examination results will be expedited and published as soon as possible. They have also stated that they will work closely with affiliated colleges to ensure that students are not disadvantaged in terms of placement and further study opportunities. The re-examination will be conducted under strict invigilation and evaluation procedures to maintain the highest standards of fairness and transparency. The university has also stated that they will provide students with opportunities to clarify any doubts or concerns they may have regarding the re-examination process. The incident has raised serious questions about the efficiency and reliability of the university’s examination system. Students and faculty are hoping that the university will take concrete steps to address the systemic issues and restore confidence in the integrity of the evaluation process. The outcome of the inquiry committee’s report is eagerly awaited, as it is expected to provide valuable insights into the lapses that occurred and pave the way for necessary reforms. The university administration has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent re-examination process and to providing all necessary support to the affected students. They have also pledged to take all necessary measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The university hopes that this incident will serve as a catalyst for positive change and lead to the strengthening of its examination system.

Karyavattom College Takes Swift Action Against Ragging Incident, Suspending Seven Students

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Karyavattom College

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – In a decisive move against the scourge of ragging, the administration of Karyavattom Government College has suspended seven students implicated in the alleged harassment of a junior student. The incident, which came to light earlier this week, has sent shockwaves through the college community and sparked renewed calls for stricter measures to combat this pervasive issue.   According to reports, the victim, a first-year biotechnology student, was subjected to a harrowing ordeal at the hands of a group of senior students. The alleged incident, which took place on the college campus, involved both physical and verbal abuse, leaving the victim traumatized and shaken.   Upon receiving a formal complaint from the victim, the college authorities promptly launched an internal inquiry into the matter. The college’s anti-ragging cell, tasked with investigating such incidents, meticulously examined the allegations, interviewed witnesses, and reviewed available evidence. Their findings corroborated the victim’s account, confirming the involvement of the seven senior students in the alleged ragging incident.   Taking a zero-tolerance stance against ragging, the college administration swiftly acted upon the recommendations of the anti-ragging cell. The seven students found culpable were immediately suspended from the college, pending further investigation and disciplinary action.   “We have a strict policy against ragging, and we will not tolerate any form of harassment or intimidation on our campus,” stated a college official, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students. “The suspension of these students sends a clear message that such behavior will not be condoned, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.” The incident at Karyavattom College is the latest in a string of ragging cases reported across educational institutions in India, raising concerns about the persistence of this deep-rooted problem. Despite stringent anti-ragging laws and regulations in place, incidents of ragging continue to surface, often with devastating consequences for the victims.   Ragging, which can range from seemingly harmless pranks to acts of severe physical and psychological abuse, has long plagued Indian colleges and universities. It often involves senior students subjecting their juniors to humiliating tasks, verbal taunts, and even physical violence, perpetuating a culture of fear and intimidation.   The psychological impact of ragging on victims can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. In some tragic cases, ragging has even driven victims to take their own lives.   The incident at Karyavattom College has reignited the debate on the need for more effective measures to curb ragging in educational institutions. While colleges have anti-ragging cells and committees in place, their effectiveness is often questioned. Critics argue that these mechanisms are often inadequate and fail to address the underlying causes of ragging. Experts emphasize the importance of creating a culture of respect and empathy in colleges, where students are encouraged to report ragging incidents without fear of reprisal. They also stress the need for sensitizing students about the harmful effects of ragging and promoting healthy interactions between seniors and juniors. In the wake of the Karyavattom College incident, there have been calls for stricter enforcement of anti-ragging laws and for colleges to take a more proactive approach to prevent such incidents from occurring. Some have suggested implementing stricter screening processes for student admissions, strengthening anti-ragging awareness campaigns, and providing counseling and support services for both victims and perpetrators of ragging. The incident at Karyavattom College serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the issue of ragging in educational institutions. While the college administration has taken swift action in this particular case, it is imperative that all stakeholders – students, faculty, administrators, and policymakers – work together to create a safe and inclusive environment for all students, where ragging has no place. The fight against ragging requires a multi-pronged approach, involving strict enforcement of laws, proactive prevention measures, and a concerted effort to change the mindset and culture that perpetuates this harmful practice. Only then can we hope to eradicate this scourge from our educational institutions and ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe and supportive environment.

Kannur University Appointments Deemed Invalid: High Court Cites Irregularities in Selection Process

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Kerala High Court

Kannur, Kerala – In a significant ruling that has sent ripples through the academic community, the Kerala High Court has annulled the appointment of two assistant professors at Kannur University. The court’s decision, delivered on Thursday, January 30, 2025, highlighted serious irregularities in the selection process, particularly the mid-interview change of the selection panel’s chairman. This move, the court declared, was “highly illegal and arbitrary,” casting a shadow over the appointments made during the final days of former Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gopinath Ravindran’s tenure. The appointments in question were made on November 30, 2023, the very day Prof. Ravindran’s reappointment as Vice-Chancellor was quashed by the Supreme Court. This timing has raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the appointments, leading to allegations of impropriety and favoritism. The High Court’s decision came in response to petitions filed by candidates who were overlooked in the selection process. These petitions alleged that the change in the selection panel’s leadership midway through the interviews compromised the fairness and transparency of the process. The court concurred with these concerns, emphasizing that such a fundamental alteration during an ongoing selection procedure could not be justified. “The reconstitution of the Selection Committee during the middle of the interview proceedings is highly illegal and arbitrary,” 1 the court stated in its order. “Any selection made pursuant thereto cannot stand the scrutiny of law.” This strong condemnation of the selection process has effectively invalidated the appointments and the rank list prepared based on those interviews.   The court’s ruling has brought to light several critical issues surrounding the appointments at Kannur University. The timing of the appointments, coinciding with the ousting of the former Vice-Chancellor, has raised questions about potential attempts to manipulate the system. The sudden change in the selection panel’s composition has further fueled suspicions of irregularities and lack of transparency. This is not the first time that Kannur University has faced controversy regarding its appointments. The university has been embroiled in several legal battles over alleged irregularities in recruitment and promotions. These incidents have raised concerns about the governance and administration of the university, prompting calls for greater transparency and accountability. The High Court’s decision in this case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of the selection process in academic institutions. Fairness, transparency, and adherence to established procedures are essential to ensure that the most qualified candidates are appointed, contributing to the growth and development of the university. The implications of this ruling are far-reaching. It not only affects the two assistant professors whose appointments have been annulled but also raises questions about the validity of other appointments made during Prof. Ravindran’s tenure. The university administration is now faced with the challenge of conducting fresh selections in a fair and transparent manner, restoring the trust of the academic community and the public. This incident underscores the need for robust mechanisms to prevent irregularities in university appointments. Clear guidelines, transparent procedures, and strict adherence to rules are crucial to maintain the credibility of academic institutions. It is also essential to ensure that those responsible for making appointments are held accountable for their decisions. The High Court’s intervention in this matter highlights the role of the judiciary in safeguarding the integrity of educational institutions. By upholding the principles of fairness and transparency, the court has sent a strong message against any attempts to manipulate the system for personal or political gain. The academic community now looks to Kannur University to take swift and decisive action to rectify the situation. Conducting fresh selections in a fair and transparent manner is crucial to restore the university’s reputation and ensure that the best talent is recruited. This incident should also serve as a learning experience, prompting the university to strengthen its internal processes and ensure that such irregularities do not occur in the future. The future of Kannur University depends on its ability to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity. The High Court’s ruling in this case is a step in the right direction, paving the way for a more transparent and accountable system of appointments. As the university moves forward, it is imperative that all stakeholders work together to ensure that merit and fairness are the guiding principles in the selection of faculty members.

Kerala Athlete’s Brave Stand Exposes Widespread Sexual Abuse: Over 60 Men Implicated, Arrests Made

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Kerala Athlete

Pathanamthitta, Kerala – A young female athlete from Kerala has bravely come forward with harrowing allegations of sexual abuse perpetrated by more than 60 individuals over a period of five years. This shocking revelation has sent shockwaves through the state and the nation, prompting swift action from law enforcement and raising serious concerns about the safety and protection of young athletes. The victim, an 18-year-old hailing from the Pathanamthitta district, endured relentless abuse allegedly involving coaches, fellow athletes, and others within her social circle. The abuse, which reportedly began when she was just 13, remained hidden from her family until recently. The details emerging from the case paint a disturbing picture of exploitation and betrayal of trust within the very environment meant to nurture talent and foster growth. Investigation and Arrests: Upon receiving the complaint, the Kerala Police launched a comprehensive investigation, forming a special team to handle the sensitive nature of the case. Their efforts have led to the arrest of several individuals implicated in the abuse. While initial reports suggested five arrests, subsequent updates indicate that six individuals have been taken into custody. The police have assured that the investigation is ongoing and that more arrests are likely as they gather further evidence and testimonies. The arrested individuals face serious charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which deals specifically with crimes against minors. The POCSO Act provides stringent punishments for perpetrators of sexual abuse against children, reflecting the gravity of such offenses. A Culture of Silence Broken: This case has brought to light the pervasive issue of sexual abuse within sports, an issue often shrouded in silence due to fear, shame, and the power dynamics at play. The athlete’s courage in speaking out has the potential to break this silence and encourage other victims to come forward. It also underscores the urgent need for robust safeguarding mechanisms within sports institutions to prevent such incidents from occurring in the first place. Wider Concerns and Calls for Action: The sheer number of individuals implicated in this case has raised serious concerns about the prevalence of sexual abuse in the athlete’s training environment and beyond. Questions are being asked about the oversight mechanisms in place, the selection and training of coaches, and the overall culture within sports organizations. Experts and activists are calling for a multi-pronged approach to address this issue, including: The Importance of Support and Rehabilitation: For the victim, the road to recovery will be long and challenging. It is crucial that she receives comprehensive support, including psychological counseling and legal assistance. The focus should be on her well-being and ensuring that she has the resources she needs to heal and rebuild her life. This case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young athletes and the urgent need to create safe and supportive environments for them to thrive. It is a call to action for all stakeholders in the sports community – from governing bodies and coaches to parents and fellow athletes – to take responsibility for preventing and addressing sexual abuse. Moving Forward: The investigation into this case is ongoing, and it is crucial to allow the legal process to unfold. However, this incident must also serve as a catalyst for broader change within the sports landscape. By acknowledging the problem, implementing effective safeguards, and fostering a culture of openness and accountability, we can work towards ensuring that young athletes are protected from abuse and can pursue their dreams in a safe and nurturing environment. The bravery of this young athlete has brought a dark reality to light. It is now up to society to respond with the necessary action to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future

Geetu Mohandas: From Acclaimed Actress to Visionary Director of Yash’s ‘Toxic’

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Geetu Mohandas

Geetu Mohandas, a name that resonates with both acting prowess and directorial finesse, is currently making waves in the Indian film industry. The former actress, known for her powerful performances in Malayalam cinema, has now taken the reins as the director of Yash’s highly anticipated action-thriller, ‘Toxic’. This exciting collaboration has sparked immense curiosity and anticipation among fans and critics alike. Let’s delve into the remarkable journey of Geetu Mohandas, from her early days as a child artist to her current status as a celebrated filmmaker.   A Star is Born: Geetu’s Early Years in Acting Born as Gayatri Das on June 8, 1981, in Kerala, Geetu Mohandas began her cinematic journey at a young age. She adopted the screen name Geetu during her fourth film, ‘Onnu Muthal Poojyam Vare’ (1986), where she shared screen space with the legendary Mohanlal. Her captivating performance in the film earned her the Kerala State Film Award for Best Child Artist, marking the beginning of a promising career.   Geetu continued to impress audiences with her natural acting talent and on-screen presence. She appeared in several notable Malayalam films, including ‘Life is Beautiful’ (2000), ‘Sesham’ (2002), and ‘Mullavalliyum Thenmavum’ (2003). Her breakthrough performance came in the 2004 film ‘Akale’, which garnered her widespread acclaim and numerous accolades, including the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress and the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Malayalam.   Transition to Direction: A New Chapter After a successful stint as an actress, Geetu Mohandas decided to explore her passion for storytelling from behind the camera. She made her directorial debut with the short film ‘Kelkkunnundo’ (Are You Listening?) in 2009. The film received critical acclaim and won several international awards, including the National Film Award for Best Short Fiction. This marked a significant turning point in her career, establishing her as a filmmaker with a unique vision.   Liar’s Dice: A National and International Triumph In 2013, Geetu Mohandas directed her first feature film, ‘Liar’s Dice’, a socio-political drama that explored the themes of identity, displacement, and survival. The film, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Geetanjali Thapa, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and received widespread critical acclaim. It also won two National Film Awards and was selected as India’s official entry for the 87th Academy Awards.   Moothon: A Bold and Acclaimed Venture Geetu’s second directorial venture, ‘Moothon’ (2019), further solidified her reputation as a filmmaker who is unafraid to tackle complex and socially relevant narratives. The film, starring Nivin Pauly, explored themes of identity, sexuality, and violence in a raw and unflinching manner. ‘Moothon’ received widespread acclaim and premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.   Toxic: A New Challenge Now, Geetu Mohandas is embarking on a new and exciting chapter in her career with ‘Toxic’, a high-octane action thriller starring the Kannada superstar Yash. This collaboration has generated immense buzz and anticipation among fans and industry insiders. The film is expected to showcase Yash in a never-seen-before avatar, and Geetu’s unique directorial style is sure to bring a fresh and innovative perspective to the action genre.   Geetu’s Vision for ‘Toxic’ While details about the plot of ‘Toxic’ are still under wraps, Geetu Mohandas has shared some insights into her vision for the film. She has described it as a “fairy tale for grown-ups” that “defies convention and is sure to provoke the chaos within us.” This intriguing description has further piqued the curiosity of audiences, who are eagerly awaiting the film’s release.   A Unique Filmmaking Style Geetu Mohandas is known for her distinctive filmmaking style, which is characterized by its realism, emotional depth, and social consciousness. Her films often explore complex themes and characters, and she has a knack for extracting powerful performances from her actors. Her ability to blend artistic vision with commercial appeal has made her one of the most sought-after directors in the Indian film industry.   A Force to be Reckoned With Geetu Mohandas’ journey from a child artist to an acclaimed director is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication. She has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventions, earning a reputation as a filmmaker who is not afraid to take risks. With ‘Toxic’, she is set to take her career to new heights, and the film is poised to be a game-changer in the action genre.   Final Thought Geetu Mohandas is a true visionary, a filmmaker who has the power to captivate audiences with her storytelling and unique perspective. Her collaboration with Yash in ‘Toxic’ is one of the most anticipated cinematic events of recent times, and the film is expected to be a milestone in her already illustrious career. As she continues to evolve and explore new cinematic territories, Geetu Mohandas remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of filmmaking.

‘Go Goa Gone’ Gone? Decoding Goa’s Evolving Tourism Landscape This Christmas

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'Go Goa Gone' Gone This Christmas

Goa, the land of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a laid-back atmosphere, has long been a favorite destination for Indian and international tourists, especially during the Christmas and New Year season. However, recent observations and reports suggest a shift in Goa’s tourism dynamics, raising questions about whether the ‘Go Goa Gone’ spirit is fading. A trip around Christmas revealed a more nuanced picture, indicating an evolving tourism scenario rather than a complete decline.   The Changing Face of Goan Tourism Goa’s tourism scene has been transforming over the past few years, influenced by various factors. While the state still attracts a significant number of visitors, there are noticeable changes in tourist demographics, preferences, and the overall experience. 1. Shifting Tourist Demographics: Traditionally, Goa has been popular among domestic tourists, particularly young adults and groups seeking affordable beach vacations and lively parties. However, there’s a growing influx of high-spending domestic and international tourists who prefer quieter, more luxurious experiences. This shift has led to the development of upscale resorts, boutique hotels, and wellness retreats, catering to a different segment of travelers. 2. Evolving Tourist Preferences: Tourists’ interests are diversifying beyond beaches and nightlife. There’s a rising demand for cultural experiences, eco-tourism, adventure activities, and wellness offerings. Tourists are keen to explore Goa’s rich heritage, visit historical sites, indulge in local cuisine, and engage in activities like yoga, meditation, and nature trails.   3. Impact of Over-Tourism: In recent years, Goa has faced challenges related to over-tourism, particularly during peak season. Overcrowded beaches, traffic congestion, waste management issues, and environmental degradation have raised concerns about the sustainability of Goa’s tourism model. This has prompted discussions and initiatives to promote responsible tourism and manage tourist influx more effectively.   4. Competition from Other Destinations: With the rise of other attractive destinations in India and Southeast Asia, Goa faces increasing competition for tourist footfall. Destinations like Kerala, Gokarna, Pondicherry, and international locations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali offer similar beach experiences and cultural attractions, often at more competitive prices. This has led some travelers to explore alternative options, impacting Goa’s market share. Christmas 2024: A Reality Check A visit to Goa during Christmas 2024 provided valuable insights into the current tourism scenario. While some reports suggested a decline in tourist numbers, the reality was more complex. 1. Mixed Occupancy Rates: Occupancy rates in hotels and guesthouses varied significantly depending on the location, type of accommodation, and pricing. While luxury hotels and resorts in popular areas like North Goa reported high occupancy, mid-range and budget accommodations in less crowded areas had lower occupancy rates. This indicates a segmentation of the market, with different segments experiencing varying levels of demand. 2. Crowded vs. Quiet Spots: Popular beaches like Calangute, Baga, and Anjuna were still crowded, especially during peak hours. However, quieter beaches in South Goa and lesser-known spots offered a more relaxed atmosphere. This suggests that tourists are seeking diverse experiences, with some preferring the lively atmosphere of popular beaches and others opting for tranquility. 3. Focus on Experiences: There was a noticeable emphasis on curated experiences beyond the typical beach and party scene. Several tour operators and local businesses offered cultural tours, food trails, heritage walks, and eco-tourism activities. This reflects the evolving tourist preferences and the industry’s efforts to cater to diverse interests. 4. Impact of Pricing: High prices, especially for accommodation and transportation, seemed to be a deterrent for some budget travelers. Many tourists expressed concerns about the increasing cost of visiting Goa, which has become less competitive compared to other destinations. This highlights the need for Goa’s tourism industry to address pricing strategies and offer more affordable options. The Way Forward Goa’s tourism industry needs to adapt to the changing dynamics and address the challenges to ensure its long-term sustainability. Some key areas of focus include: 1. Sustainable Tourism Practices: Promoting responsible tourism practices is crucial to mitigate the negative impacts of over-tourism. This includes managing waste effectively, conserving natural resources, protecting the environment, and promoting eco-friendly activities. 2. Diversification of Tourism Offerings: Developing diverse tourism products and experiences beyond beaches and nightlife is essential to cater to evolving tourist preferences. This includes promoting cultural tourism, heritage tourism, eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and wellness tourism.   3. Infrastructure Development: Improving infrastructure, including transportation, roads, sanitation, and public amenities, is crucial to enhance the tourist experience and manage tourist influx more effectively.   4. Pricing Strategies: Adopting competitive pricing strategies and offering a range of accommodation and service options to cater to different budget segments is important to attract a wider range of tourists. 5. Marketing and Promotion: Effective marketing and promotion campaigns that highlight Goa’s diverse offerings and unique experiences are essential to attract tourists and compete with other destinations. Final Thought While the ‘Go Goa Gone’ narrative might be evolving, Goa’s tourism industry is far from declining. The state is undergoing a transformation, adapting to changing tourist demographics, preferences, and market dynamics. By embracing sustainable practices, diversifying tourism offerings, improving infrastructure, and adopting competitive pricing strategies, Goa can ensure its continued appeal as a leading tourist destination. The key lies in balancing the preservation of its unique charm and natural beauty with the evolving needs and expectations of modern travelers.

M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Literary Giant of Malayalam, Passes Away at 91

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M.T. Vasudevan Nair

Kozhikode, Kerala –India has lost one of its most revered literary figures with the passing of M.T. Vasudevan Nair, fondly known as MT, at the age of 91. The acclaimed Malayalam writer and filmmaker breathed his last at a private hospital in Kozhikode on Wednesday, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy that has enriched Indian literature and cinema for over seven decades. MT had been admitted to the hospital following a cardiac arrest and had been receiving intensive care. Despite initial signs of recovery, his condition deteriorated, leading to his demise. The news of his passing has plunged the literary world and his countless admirers into deep mourning. A Life Dedicated to Words and Images Born on July 15, 1933, in the village of Kudallur in the Palakkad district of Kerala, MT’s journey into the world of letters began at a young age. His profound understanding of human emotions, his keen observation of society, and his mastery of the Malayalam language soon established him as a prominent voice in Indian literature. MT’s literary oeuvre is vast and diverse, encompassing novels, short stories, screenplays, children’s literature, travelogues, and essays. His works are characterized by their evocative portrayal of nostalgia, their exploration of complex human relationships, and their insightful commentary on social issues. Some of his most celebrated novels include Naalukettu (The House Around the Well), Asuravithu (The Demon Seed), Kaalam (Time), and Randamoozham (The Second Turn). These works have not only garnered critical acclaim but have also captivated readers with their compelling narratives and memorable characters. A Pioneer of Malayalam Cinema In addition to his literary achievements, MT made significant contributions to Malayalam cinema. He wrote screenplays for numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, many of which are considered classics of Indian cinema. His screenwriting credits include Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha (A Northern Story of Valor), Thalolam (Lullaby), and Sadayam (The Compassionate). MT also directed a handful of films, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His film adaptations of his own literary works, such as Nirmalyam (The Offering), are particularly noteworthy for their artistic integrity and their faithful rendering of the source material. Awards and Recognition MT’s contributions to literature and cinema have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. He received the Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honor, in 1995. He is also a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India. His contributions to cinema have been recognized with seven National Film Awards, including four for Best Screenplay. This recognition underscores his mastery of both the written word and the visual medium. A Legacy That Will Endure The passing of M.T. Vasudevan Nair marks the end of an era in Indian literature and cinema. His works have not only entertained and enlightened generations of readers and viewers but have also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Kerala and India. His stories, with their profound humanism and their exploration of the complexities of life, will continue to resonate with readers for generations to come. His films, with their artistic brilliance and their emotional depth, will continue to inspire and entertain audiences. MT’s legacy is one of creativity, integrity, and a deep commitment to his craft. He will be remembered not only as a literary giant and a cinematic visionary but also as a cultural icon who enriched the lives of countless people through his words and images. Tributes Pour In The news of MT’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the literary and film fraternity, as well as from political leaders and admirers. The Kerala government has declared two days of state mourning as a mark of respect for the departed soul. Condolence messages have poured in from prominent figures, highlighting MT’s immense contributions to Indian culture and his profound impact on the hearts and minds of people. A Void That Cannot Be Filled The death of M.T. Vasudevan Nair has left a void that cannot be easily filled. He was a true giant of Indian literature and cinema, a master storyteller who touched the lives of millions with his words and images. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations of writers and filmmakers. His works will continue to be read and cherished, reminding us of the power of art to illuminate the human condition.

Covid-19: Fully Vaccinated 66 Medical Students are Covid Positive in Kerala

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Covid Positive in Kerala

Kerala: Dharwad district situated in Kerala has recorded zero covid cases a few days ago. But now it has suffered a jolt after 66 medical students tested Covid positive. On 25th November the administration of the Dharwad district has sealed the two hostels of SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospitals. The majority of the students are from the first year tested positive. The district administration declared the hostel as a containment zone. A team containing the health officials and personnel is now deployed on this medical college campus. On 25th November Nitesh Patil, the Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad district has visited the college campus. He has done a meeting with the college authorities and staff. During the meeting, he sought details about the precautions taken by the college authorities. At the media conference District Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr. Yashwanth Madinkar, District Surveillance Officer Dr. Sujata Hasavimath, and College principal Dr. Ratnamala Desai were present. After doing the meeting and visiting the campus Deputy Commissioner said to the media persons that two students’ hostels had been sealed. And the remaining faculty members and students are directed to do an RT-PCR test immediately. All the positive students were attained in a students’ program on 17 November at D. Veerendra Heggade Kalakshetra located on the college campus. Mr. Patil said that all the students who are affected in Covid are had received both 1st and 2nd doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. He added though many students are asymptomatic some have mild symptoms. Besides the health condition of the positive students are stable. But all of them will be quarantined for fourteen days. Commissioner added, “All the primary contacts are being tested. Of the 400 students in the college, so far, 300 students have been tested, of which 66 have tested positive. The results of the tests on the remaining 100 students will be known on November 26.” The infected students are moved to a block of the hostel and the others who are waiting for the result have been already shifted to another block and the area is now closed as a containment zone. All the positive students were hostel inmates. It increases the huge chance of spreading infection on the campus. So the college authority is trying to get a trace of the primary and secondary contacts.