© AFP Rohit Sharma is now a proud father of a baby girl and has flown from Australia to Mumbai to attend to his wife Ritika Sajdeh and the child. As a result of this development, Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming Sydney Test versus Australia, starting on January 3. According to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) statement, the Indian batsman will join the squad on January 8, when the team begins its preparation for the One-day International (ODI) series starting on January 12. The two other ODIs will be played on January 15 and 18. Sharma, who was recently included in the Indian Test set-up, has enjoyed average outings in Adelaide and Melbourne, after missing out on the second Test in Perth due to injury. Recently, Sharma took to Instagram to apologise to wife Ritika Sajdeh for being away on her birthday. Ritika had turned 31 on December 21. Sharma had shared an old photograph with Ritika and wrote, "Happy birthday my other half. Apologies for not being there, thought I'll share this inflight celebration of your birthday last year @ritssajdeh."
Bharatanatyam (Tamil : "????????????") also historically called Sadir, is a major genre of Indian classical dance that originated in Tamil Nadu.[1][2][3] Traditionally, Bharatanatyam has been a solo dance that was performed exclusively by women,[4][5] and it expressed South Indian religious themes and spiritual ideas, particularly of Shaivism, Vaishnavism and Shaktism.[1][6][7] Bharatanatyam's theoretical foundations trace to the ancient Sanskrit text by Bharata Muni, Natya Shastra,[6] its existence by 2nd century CE is noted in the ancient Tamil epic Silappatikaram, while temple sculptures of 6th to 9th century CE suggest it was a well refined performance art by mid 1st millennium CE.[5][8] Bharatanatyam may be the oldest classical dance tradition of India.[9] Bharatanatyam style is noted for its fixed upper torso, legs bent or knees flexed out combined with spectacular footwork, a sophisticated vocabulary of sign language based on gestures of hands, eyes and face muscles.[8] The dance is accompanied by music and a singer, and typically her guru is present as the director and conductor of the performance and art.[1] The dance has traditionally been a form of an interpretive narration of mythical legends and spiritual ideas from the Hindu texts.[4] The performance repertoire of Bharatanatyam, like other classical dances, includes nrita (pure dance), nritya (solo expressive dance) and natya (group dramatic dance).[4][10] Bharatanatyam remained exclusive to Hindu temples through the 19th century.[8] It was banned by the colonial British government in 1910,[11] but the Indian community protested against the ban and expanded it outside the temples in the 20th century.[8][11][12] Modern stage productions of Bharatanatyam have incorporated technical performances, pure dance based on non-religious ideas and fusion themes.[5][8]
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the BJP is confident of doing well in this year's general election despite the party's recent losses in state polls. "There is no reason for low morale in the BJP. The BJP has confidence in the people and the people have confidence in the BJP," PM Modi said in an interview to news agency ANI on the New Year. "In 2019, if there is one party which the country trusts and is connected with the people, it is the BJP," said the Prime Minister in the interview in which he tackled criticism on subjects ranging from demonetization and Goods and Services Tax to the RBI chief's exit and the Rafale jet deal. Brushing away questions raised about the party's prospects following the setback in the assembly elections in the three heartland states, he said these were a "set of persons" who echoed a similar narrative even in 2014. "People will decide if they want to support those who loot even if they come together. It will be janta (people) vs gathbandhan (alliance)," PM Modi said. The prime minister's 95-minute interview set the tone for an election year after the ruling BJP lost three big states in the party's biggest poll setback since PM Modi took office in 2014 and in a considerable boost to the Congress, the opposition and its allies ahead of the national polls due by May. "In Telangana and Mizoram, nobody gave the BJP any chance or even thought that we would form government. In Chhattisgarh, a clear mandate was given, the BJP lost. But in two states there was a hung assembly. Fifteen years of anti-incumbency was being fought by our people. We are discussing what was lacking," he said, adding that winning or losing was not the only yardstick. But for the national elections, he said he had faith in the country's voters. To opposition comments that the "Modi wave is over", he remarked, "When they say this (Modi wave/Modi magic) ...that means people are admitting Modi wave." He added: "Experts will say all kinds of things, to defend their position and drive their narrative. But we should never underestimate the political understanding of the common man." Asked if the polls were heading to a US Presidential-style contest between Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi, he said: "I believe this election is going to be a contest between those who fulfill and take forward the aspirations of the people and those who stop these aspirations. There is experience of 70 years. The public is the decider". Asked if the opposition alliance that's being discussed could be an alternative, the Prime Minister said, "They still speak in different voices. Who are these people? They are looking for each other's support to save themselves... They hold each other's hand, so that they are saved. That is the game". Taking aim at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi, the PM said the "first family" of the country is out on bail and facing charges of financial irregularities. "The family that was once considered the first family of the country, that ruled the country for four generations, has to walk around on bail, that too on charges of financial irregularities. That is a big thing," the Prime Minister said. Responding to a question on whether the recent elections were proof that the BJP's goal of a "Congress-mukt (Congress-free) India" was not materializing, PM Modi said: "Even Congress people say Congress is a soch (thought), a culture. That culture is casteism, dynastic politics, undemocratic, nepotism. Congress represents this culture. When I say Congress-mukt, I want to rid the country from this culture and this sort of thinking. And I have even gone to say that Congress too needs to be free of this Congress culture." On demands within the BJP and from allies like the Shiv Sena for an ordinance or special order to enable a Ram temple in Ayodhya, PM Modi made it clear that a decision cannot be made unless the judicial process is over. "Let the judicial process be over. After the judicial process is over, whatever will be our responsibility as the government, we are ready to make all efforts," he said in a statement that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) - the BJP's ideological mentor - has called "positive". COMMENT PM Modi also tackled criticism of the 2016 demonetisation and said it was "not a jhatka", that people were warned about depositing their black money.
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New Year Interview

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the BJP is confident of doing well in this year's general election despite the party's recent losses in state polls. "There is no reason for low morale in the BJP. The BJP has confidence in the people and the people have confidence in the BJP," PM Modi said in an interview to news agency ANI on the New Year. "In 2019, if there is one party which the country trusts and is connected with the people, it is the BJP," said the Prime Minister in the interview in which he tackled criticism on subjects ranging from demonetization and Goods and Services Tax to the RBI chief's exit and the Rafale jet deal. Brushing away questions raised about the party's prospects following the setback in the assembly elections in the three heartland states, he said these were a "set of persons" who echoed a similar narrative even in 2014. "People will decide if they want to support those who loot even if they come together. It will be janta (people) vs gathbandhan (alliance)," PM Modi said. The prime minister's 95-minute interview set the tone for an election year after the ruling BJP lost three big states in the party's biggest poll setback since PM Modi took office in 2014 and in a considerable boost to the Congress, the opposition and its allies ahead of the national polls due by May. "In Telangana and Mizoram, nobody gave the BJP any chance or even thought that we would form government. In Chhattisgarh, a clear mandate was given, the BJP lost. But in two states there was a hung assembly. Fifteen years of anti-incumbency was being fought by our people. We are discussing what was lacking," he said, adding that winning or losing was not the only yardstick. But for the national elections, he said he had faith in the country's voters. To opposition comments that the "Modi wave is over", he remarked, "When they say this (Modi wave/Modi magic) ...that means people are admitting Modi wave." He added: "Experts will say all kinds of things, to defend their position and drive their narrative. But we should never underestimate the political understanding of the common man." Asked if the polls were heading to a US Presidential-style contest between Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi, he said: "I believe this election is going to be a contest between those who fulfill and take forward the aspirations of the people and those who stop these aspirations. There is experience of 70 years. The public is the decider". Asked if the opposition alliance that's being discussed could be an alternative, the Prime Minister said, "They still speak in different voices. Who are these people? They are looking for each other's support to save themselves... They hold each other's hand, so that they are saved. That is the game". Taking aim at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi, the PM said the "first family" of the country is out on bail and facing charges of financial irregularities. "The family that was once considered the first family of the country, that ruled the country for four generations, has to walk around on bail, that too on charges of financial irregularities. That is a big thing," the Prime Minister said. Responding to a question on whether the recent elections were proof that the BJP's goal of a "Congress-mukt (Congress-free) India" was not materializing, PM Modi said: "Even Congress people say Congress is a soch (thought), a culture. That culture is casteism, dynastic politics, undemocratic, nepotism. Congress represents this culture. When I say Congress-mukt, I want to rid the country from this culture and this sort of thinking. And I have even gone to say that Congress too needs to be free of this Congress culture." On demands within the BJP and from allies like the Shiv Sena for an ordinance or special order to enable a Ram temple in Ayodhya, PM Modi made it clear that a decision cannot be made unless the judicial process is over. "Let the judicial process be over. After the judicial process is over, whatever will be our responsibility as the government, we are ready to make all efforts," he said in a statement that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) - the BJP's ideological mentor - has called "positive". COMMENT PM Modi also tackled criticism of the 2016 demonetisation and said it was "not a jhatka", that people were warned about depositing their black money.


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BJP Legislator From Andhra Pradesh Resigns And Join Jana Sena Party

Amravati: BJP legislator from Rajahmundry-Urban, Akula Satyanarayana, confirmed his resignation from the party and the assembly's membership to join the Jana Sena Party of Pawan Kalyan on Sunday. Mr Akula said he has sent his resignation to the state BJP unit president Kanna Lakshminarayana. He told news agency ANI that he will be giving the letter of resignation from the membership of Assembly to the State Assembly Speaker personally on Monday in Amaravati. "I could not send the resignation to the Speaker as Sunday is off," he added. Mr Akula said he prepared the letter of resignation in the prescribed one-liner format.


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Vivek Oberoi is a spitting image of the prime minister : Modi's Biopic

Three days after news of a biopic on PM Narendra Modi spread like wildfire, the makers have released the first poster of the film. Titled PM Narendra Modi, Omung Kumar's film has Vivek Anand Oberoi playing the titular role. Vivek Oberoi, who was last seen in Bank Chor, is returning to Bollywood with the biopic. The 42-year-old actor took to Twitter to share the first look poster and wrote, "We humbly ask for your prayers and blessings on this incredible journey." ?? ?????. ?? ?????. ???? ??????. Jai Hind ?????? We humbly ask for your prayers and blessings on this incredible journey. #AkhandBharat #PMNarendraModi pic.twitter.com/t0lQVka7mJ Vivek Anand Oberoi (@vivekoberoi) January 7, 2019 The poster shows Vivek Oberoi clad in a yellow kurta with tricolour in the backdrop and a tag line, "Deshbhakti ki meri shakti hai." Vivek Oberoi is every bit Modi in the poster of PM Narendra Modi. Interestingly, the first look posters were released in 27 languages. Omung Kumar, who has directed biographical dramas like Mary Kom, Sarbjit, has now taken over the project on PM Modi ahead of the 2019 general elections. Veteran actor Paresh Rawal was initially roped in to play the role of Modi, but the actor backed out due to unknown reasons. "The team acquired the necessary permissions to go forth with the film only a few weeks ago. Vivek has been working on his distinct looks, and will be part of extensive workshops. A big chunk of the film will be shot in Gujarat, apart from other states," a source told a daily. The biopic on the life of Narendra Modi was announced four years ago. The shooting will start from mid-January 2019. Reportedly, the film will be shot across Gujarat, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, among other locations in the country, over a period of a few months.


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Congress To Contest Alone In Assembly, Lok Sabha Polls In Andhra Pradesh

Vijayawada: Congress in Andhra Pradesh has decided to go alone in the ensuing simultaneous elections to the State Assembly and Lok Sabha. Party's central leader Oommen Chandy, who is incharge of party affairs in Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday said Congress had decided to contest all 175 Assembly and all 25 Lok Sabha seats. The decision would mean that there will be no Grand Alliance of Congress and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Andhra Pradesh. The two parties had jointly contested recent Assembly elections in Telangana but faced crushing defeat. TDP, which is the ruling party in Andhra Pradesh, was also ambiguous on whether it would contest the coming elections in the State in alliance with the Congress party. "I am connected with AICC not TDP or its leader Chandrababu Naidu. We will inform the high command and get permission," Mr Chandy said when asked if he conveyed the decision to Mr Naidu. He said the decision for an alliance with TDP in Telangana was taken by the party's central leadership. The former Kerala Chief Minister said the party also decided to form all committees including election committee as per AICC directions. "We have to nominate seven committees. We will give list of members to AICC this week itself," he said. He also announced that a meeting of all party conveners of Assembly and Lok Sabha constituencies will meet on January 31 to discuss and finalise everything related to elections. When asked if the party would find candidates to contest the elections, Chandy claimed that many people were ready to contest. "I cannot say. People will decide," he said when asked as to how many seats Congress would win. In 2014, Congress had drawn a blank in both Assembly and Lok Sabha polls. He, however, believes that the situation had now changed and people of Andhra Pradesh have full faith in Congress President Rahul Gandhi's promise to give special category status to the State. Mr Chandy said all leaders of the party under leadership of State Congress President Raghuveera Reddy would take out bus yatra in all 13 districts in February.


NTR Kathanayakudu is a mixed bag, depending on which kaleidoscope you choose to watch the movie through. As a documentation of a great man's life, someone adored and revered, the movie ticks a lot of boxes. As a pure cinematic experience, the movie doesn't quite wrench your heart and neither does it have the goosebumps-evoking drama that anyone who has read or heard about NTR's life would come to expect. It feels like director Krish was equally conflicted - to show the man who would become god, or to show the god who was at one point, just a common man? The movie begins with NTR (Balakrishna) resigning from the Sub-Registrar office, tired of the corruption. His wife Basavatarakam (Vidya Balan) is adoringly encouraging when he wants to leave for Madras, to take up an invitation he had received from LV Prasad (Jisshu Sengupta is a scene-stealer), who mentors him to an extent. His first offer is from Subbarao. But neither HM Reddy nor Subbarao manage to keep their original word, due to bad finances, leading him to leave Madras in a fit, only for his good-samaritan attitude to stop him from boarding the train in a stroke of luck. Nevertheless, what stands out is his discipline and sense of self-esteem, qualities that make him the celestial figure he became eventually. He gets a brilliant offer from Nagi Reddy and lands a role as Thota Ramudu in Pataala Bhairavi, largely because of KV Reddy's obdurate belief in him. And the first real superstar in Telugu cinema is born or in GV Reddy's words, "the real first superstar on an Indian screen is born". NTR Kathanayakudu, the movie, blends two interesting dimensions of his charismatic persona - his love for cinema exceeded only by his love for the people, without discrimination. The movie highlights his role in collecting funds for the Rayalaseema famine. His passion and self-respect see him script a victorious path as an employee of Vijaya Vahini Studios. Much to Chakrapani and Nagi Reddy's chagrin, NTR bags the role of Krishna, probably the high point of the movie, introducing audiences to the times when NTR was viewed as an avatar himself. The movie also exults in Rama Rao's role in bringing alive the story of Ravana in Bhookailash (he had to stand unmoving for 20 hours so the ten heads could appear one by one on screen, a first of sorts for Indian cinema). NTR's professionalism shines through when he finishes a shooting (an unflinching attitude of taking everyone along and putting others first) despite the news of the loss of his son. The second half sows seeds for highlighting NTR, the national leader. It also picks up pace and builds several layers into the story. There is NTR, putting his fans and movies ahead of his life, during the Emergency, carrying his own movie prints to the distributors during curfew. There is the great NTR-ANR bromance, Sumanth doing really well to bring the camaraderie alive, especially the initiative of NTR ANR fund for cyclone relief, and the stern pride-driven decision to make Hyderabad the new home to Telugu cinema. There is NTR, the visionary who creates Dana Veera Soora Karna, playing three roles, while producing and directing the movie (as an answer to the challenge posed by younger stars like Krishna). There is a constant side-track, the bond between NTR and his younger brother, and producer for a lot of his movies, Trivikrama Rao. It also introduces the domestic dissatisfaction in NTR's family for Yamagola, for acting with a much younger woman actor. There is Harikrishna (Kalyan Ram) who pretty much follows NTR like a shadow. There are two ways of looking at the movie. One can't help but get nostalgic as the narrative gives a hat-tip, one by one, to the greats of Telugu cinema. From the long collars, aviators and bell-bottoms to hit movie references, the film gives NTR fans a walk down the memory lane. Balakrishna's uncanny resemblance in several shots, especially as the older NTR contemplating his entry into politics, not to mention in several roles like in Bobbili Puli and Vetagadu, makes the second half exhilarating. However, though he fits the bill perfectly in the latter half of the movie where NTR has matured as a statesman and has become a leader of the masses, for a fan, it is hard to really enjoy the early NTR film-career as enacted by Balakrishna. This, despite the obvious effort that has gone into it. It would have helped if the soundtrack had given us a little more than a layer of cottoned elevation hidden behind - like everything else - the intention to show how a mortal became a demigod. Comparisons to another biopic, Mahanati are obvious, given the music that the earlier movie had delivered, tracks which stayed with us for a long time. The other aspect of the movie is the way it develops the perception of the actual NTR people remember, a leader cherished by the masses, a leader who was made God by the masses and who was willing to turn into a mere mortal again to enter into the dirty world of politics. Chandrababu Naidu (Rana) and YSR also get mentions. The movie ends at the inception of the Telugu Desam Party. Krish does a great job in picking the right moments in the life of a demigod. A soft touch with Savitri's scene, a humane touch with an old lady, a feminist touch with the way he encouraged women, a thought for the foundation of various schemes he later envisaged - the makers have ensured that NTR is shown in an otherworldly aura. Vidya Balan is understated but brilliant, and so are actors who play important roles in his life, e.g. his brother's. While the movie does a fair job, and emotional moments are aplenty, one wonders if this is the best way in which the great NTR could be portrayed. The documentation was perfect but one can be sure there was a lot more about the man than the legendary tales we have already heard about him. It is also very noticeable that the movie is an altruistic vision - barring the Emergency and the comments about all south Indians being Madrasis (not to mention the strong anti-Congress stand), the movie rarely treads away from being politically correct. Where NTR Kathanayakudu scores is in upholding what many lovers of nostalgia would expect from the movie - reel conversations, idiosyncrasies of greats like Chakrapani and GV Reddy, old sets, a lot of trivia. Unlike in Mahanati, NTR doesn't start with how the actor was created. He was already fully-made! The director's constraints while making a movie on a figure like NTR with his own son playing the lead, and with even the politics and history of the state at stake, are obvious. These aren't exactly shortcomings but they stop the movie from developing a flair like Mahanati had. One needs to laud the art-direction/make-up/costumes for reproducing the period of NTR's stardom beautifully though. For true-blue NTR fans, the first part of this biopic is still a treat, and builds up nicely into Mahanayakudu, which would probably move on from the reel to real, a socio-political thriller. Disclaimer: This review was not paid for or commissioned by anyone associated with the film. Neither TNM nor any of its reviewers have any sort of business relationship with the film's producers or any other members of its cast and crew.
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'NTR Kathanayakudu' review

NTR Kathanayakudu is a mixed bag, depending on which kaleidoscope you choose to watch the movie through. As a documentation of a great man's life, someone adored and revered, the movie ticks a lot of boxes. As a pure cinematic experience, the movie doesn't quite wrench your heart and neither does it have the goosebumps-evoking drama that anyone who has read or heard about NTR's life would come to expect. It feels like director Krish was equally conflicted - to show the man who would become god, or to show the god who was at one point, just a common man? The movie begins with NTR (Balakrishna) resigning from the Sub-Registrar office, tired of the corruption. His wife Basavatarakam (Vidya Balan) is adoringly encouraging when he wants to leave for Madras, to take up an invitation he had received from LV Prasad (Jisshu Sengupta is a scene-stealer), who mentors him to an extent. His first offer is from Subbarao. But neither HM Reddy nor Subbarao manage to keep their original word, due to bad finances, leading him to leave Madras in a fit, only for his good-samaritan attitude to stop him from boarding the train in a stroke of luck. Nevertheless, what stands out is his discipline and sense of self-esteem, qualities that make him the celestial figure he became eventually. He gets a brilliant offer from Nagi Reddy and lands a role as Thota Ramudu in Pataala Bhairavi, largely because of KV Reddy's obdurate belief in him. And the first real superstar in Telugu cinema is born or in GV Reddy's words, "the real first superstar on an Indian screen is born". NTR Kathanayakudu, the movie, blends two interesting dimensions of his charismatic persona - his love for cinema exceeded only by his love for the people, without discrimination. The movie highlights his role in collecting funds for the Rayalaseema famine. His passion and self-respect see him script a victorious path as an employee of Vijaya Vahini Studios. Much to Chakrapani and Nagi Reddy's chagrin, NTR bags the role of Krishna, probably the high point of the movie, introducing audiences to the times when NTR was viewed as an avatar himself. The movie also exults in Rama Rao's role in bringing alive the story of Ravana in Bhookailash (he had to stand unmoving for 20 hours so the ten heads could appear one by one on screen, a first of sorts for Indian cinema). NTR's professionalism shines through when he finishes a shooting (an unflinching attitude of taking everyone along and putting others first) despite the news of the loss of his son. The second half sows seeds for highlighting NTR, the national leader. It also picks up pace and builds several layers into the story. There is NTR, putting his fans and movies ahead of his life, during the Emergency, carrying his own movie prints to the distributors during curfew. There is the great NTR-ANR bromance, Sumanth doing really well to bring the camaraderie alive, especially the initiative of NTR ANR fund for cyclone relief, and the stern pride-driven decision to make Hyderabad the new home to Telugu cinema. There is NTR, the visionary who creates Dana Veera Soora Karna, playing three roles, while producing and directing the movie (as an answer to the challenge posed by younger stars like Krishna). There is a constant side-track, the bond between NTR and his younger brother, and producer for a lot of his movies, Trivikrama Rao. It also introduces the domestic dissatisfaction in NTR's family for Yamagola, for acting with a much younger woman actor. There is Harikrishna (Kalyan Ram) who pretty much follows NTR like a shadow. There are two ways of looking at the movie. One can't help but get nostalgic as the narrative gives a hat-tip, one by one, to the greats of Telugu cinema. From the long collars, aviators and bell-bottoms to hit movie references, the film gives NTR fans a walk down the memory lane. Balakrishna's uncanny resemblance in several shots, especially as the older NTR contemplating his entry into politics, not to mention in several roles like in Bobbili Puli and Vetagadu, makes the second half exhilarating. However, though he fits the bill perfectly in the latter half of the movie where NTR has matured as a statesman and has become a leader of the masses, for a fan, it is hard to really enjoy the early NTR film-career as enacted by Balakrishna. This, despite the obvious effort that has gone into it. It would have helped if the soundtrack had given us a little more than a layer of cottoned elevation hidden behind - like everything else - the intention to show how a mortal became a demigod. Comparisons to another biopic, Mahanati are obvious, given the music that the earlier movie had delivered, tracks which stayed with us for a long time. The other aspect of the movie is the way it develops the perception of the actual NTR people remember, a leader cherished by the masses, a leader who was made God by the masses and who was willing to turn into a mere mortal again to enter into the dirty world of politics. Chandrababu Naidu (Rana) and YSR also get mentions. The movie ends at the inception of the Telugu Desam Party. Krish does a great job in picking the right moments in the life of a demigod. A soft touch with Savitri's scene, a humane touch with an old lady, a feminist touch with the way he encouraged women, a thought for the foundation of various schemes he later envisaged - the makers have ensured that NTR is shown in an otherworldly aura. Vidya Balan is understated but brilliant, and so are actors who play important roles in his life, e.g. his brother's. While the movie does a fair job, and emotional moments are aplenty, one wonders if this is the best way in which the great NTR could be portrayed. The documentation was perfect but one can be sure there was a lot more about the man than the legendary tales we have already heard about him. It is also very noticeable that the movie is an altruistic vision - barring the Emergency and the comments about all south Indians being Madrasis (not to mention the strong anti-Congress stand), the movie rarely treads away from being politically correct. Where NTR Kathanayakudu scores is in upholding what many lovers of nostalgia would expect from the movie - reel conversations, idiosyncrasies of greats like Chakrapani and GV Reddy, old sets, a lot of trivia. Unlike in Mahanati, NTR doesn't start with how the actor was created. He was already fully-made! The director's constraints while making a movie on a figure like NTR with his own son playing the lead, and with even the politics and history of the state at stake, are obvious. These aren't exactly shortcomings but they stop the movie from developing a flair like Mahanati had. One needs to laud the art-direction/make-up/costumes for reproducing the period of NTR's stardom beautifully though. For true-blue NTR fans, the first part of this biopic is still a treat, and builds up nicely into Mahanayakudu, which would probably move on from the reel to real, a socio-political thriller. Disclaimer: This review was not paid for or commissioned by anyone associated with the film. Neither TNM nor any of its reviewers have any sort of business relationship with the film's producers or any other members of its cast and crew.


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Sussanne Khan wishes BFF Hrithik Roshan on birthday: The force will always be with you

When Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan decided to pull the plug on their 14 years of marriage, their fans were left heartbroken. Though the couple never made the reason behind their split public, many conspiracy theories started doing the rounds. However, the ex-couple shut the detractors by remaining friends despite their divorce. When most couple turn cold and distant after split, Hrithik and Sussanne stood by each other. Their every single public appearance is a proof of no bad blood between the two after the divorce. In fact, their get together(s) are a testimony to a rock solid friendship between the ex-couple. From parties to film screenings to vacations, Hrithik and Sussanne have been spotted together more than often in the last four years. And despite the divorce, the two share a special bond and have stuck together as a family all this while, courtesy their kids - Hrehaan and Hridhaan. On Hrithik's 45th birthday, Sussanne posted a beautiful message for the birthday boy. She wrote, "Happiest happy birthday to my BFF from and through this world...and onto other realms.. the force will always be with you."


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Kareena, Rani, Hrithik in viral pic from Mujhse Dosti Karoge sets

Before Neil Nitin Mukesh made it to the big screen with films like Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and New York, the actor was learning filmmaking as an assistant director. The actor assisted Kunal Kohli in 2002 blockbuster Mujhse Dosti Karoge. In a viral photo from Mujhse Dosti Karoge sets, the actor can be seen with the star cast of the film - Kareena Kapoor Khan, Rani Mukherjee, and Hrithik Roshan.


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Vishal to get married to a Hyderabad girl

It was earlier rumored that actor Vishal, who is the president of the Tamil Film Producers Council and secretary of Nadigar Sangam, is all set to tie the knot with actress Varalaxmi. However, in separate interviews, both Vishal and Varalaxmi have revealed that they are not in a relationship but are just friends. Varalaxmi said that Vishal is a close friend and said they are not going to get married. Vishal, on the other hand, said Varalaxmi is someone close to his heart but they are not in love. Now, Vishal's father GK Reddy, a popular producer, has spilled beans about Vishal's marriage. Talking to a Tamil daily, Vishal's dad said that the family has chosen a bride for the actor. The girl is from Hyderabad and they are now busy with fixing a date for the engagement. Vishal earlier promised that he will get married only after building the office of Nadigar Sangam. The building work is currently on the final stage and it would be wrapped up by March 2019. ALSO READ: Did Vishal threaten Sri Reddy for exposing casting couch in Kollywood? ALSO WATCH | Saroj Khan defends casting couch, gets slammed


Course Details Marketing is no longer just a business function, it is a way of doing business that places the consumer at the centre of organisational activity. Marketing is an essential component of organisational success not only in businesses, but also in the public sector and not-for-profit organisations. Whether you are actively seeking opportunities in other countries, or working with global influences in a home market, international marketing strategy affects us all. This course will enable you to develop the professional marketing skills and knowledge required to work effectively in this increasingly complex environment. Studying this course will also enhance your ability to think strategically about marketing issues and challenges. Our MSc International Marketing Strategy is made up of several modules that combine to provide you with a comprehensive coverage of the challenging and dynamic discipline of international marketing. The content of the course reflects the key strategic decisions that underpin international marketing including: the decision to internationalise market identification screening and selection market entry tactical action programmes implementation monitoring and evaluation The dissertation gives you an opportunity to complete a substantial piece of independent research on an international marketing topic of your choice. Industry Placement Option The industry placement enables you to develop your skills and knowledge in a real-world work environment, whilst completing an applied research project. This will give you an advantage over the competition for jobs and scholarships after you graduate and could be a good starting point for setting up your own consultancy business. Your placement will need to be appropriate to your level of study and you should also be paid for this work. We will support you in finding and securing a suitable placement opportunity, however it must be noted that placements are highly competitive and there is no guarantee of a placement offer being made by an employer. If you are unable or unwilling to progress with an industry placement, for whatever reason, you will have the option to transfer onto our Dissertation and Research Methods module in order to gain the required credits to complete your programme of study. Assessments An innovative range of individual and group-based assessments are used involving the preparation of essays, marketing plans, case study analyses, portfolios and presentations as well as the dissertation
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Study Abroad , International Marketing Strategy MSc

Course Details Marketing is no longer just a business function, it is a way of doing business that places the consumer at the centre of organisational activity. Marketing is an essential component of organisational success not only in businesses, but also in the public sector and not-for-profit organisations. Whether you are actively seeking opportunities in other countries, or working with global influences in a home market, international marketing strategy affects us all. This course will enable you to develop the professional marketing skills and knowledge required to work effectively in this increasingly complex environment. Studying this course will also enhance your ability to think strategically about marketing issues and challenges. Our MSc International Marketing Strategy is made up of several modules that combine to provide you with a comprehensive coverage of the challenging and dynamic discipline of international marketing. The content of the course reflects the key strategic decisions that underpin international marketing including: the decision to internationalise market identification screening and selection market entry tactical action programmes implementation monitoring and evaluation The dissertation gives you an opportunity to complete a substantial piece of independent research on an international marketing topic of your choice. Industry Placement Option The industry placement enables you to develop your skills and knowledge in a real-world work environment, whilst completing an applied research project. This will give you an advantage over the competition for jobs and scholarships after you graduate and could be a good starting point for setting up your own consultancy business. Your placement will need to be appropriate to your level of study and you should also be paid for this work. We will support you in finding and securing a suitable placement opportunity, however it must be noted that placements are highly competitive and there is no guarantee of a placement offer being made by an employer. If you are unable or unwilling to progress with an industry placement, for whatever reason, you will have the option to transfer onto our Dissertation and Research Methods module in order to gain the required credits to complete your programme of study. Assessments An innovative range of individual and group-based assessments are used involving the preparation of essays, marketing plans, case study analyses, portfolios and presentations as well as the dissertation


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Career in C.A

Chartered accountancy is the core of all business, be it big or small. A chartered accountant’s work involves auditing, taxation, accounting and financial planning. It can be a very challenging and rewarding job. Career prospects after doing chartered accountancy are exciting. Chartered accountancy can be the first step to other rewarding careers in finance, investment consultancy and fund management. The Chartered Accountancy course is conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, which has its headquarters in New Delhi, 5 regional offices (Calcutta, Kanpur, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi) and 81 branches under these regional centres. Step-by-Step The qualifications for becoming a CA have changed over the years. Initially — and that was decades ago — one could think of becoming a CA only after finishing graduation and a candidate had to undergo five years of articleship training. In 1991-92, ICAI allowed candidates who had cleared their Plus Two examinations to appear for the Foundation Course of the CA programme. In October 2001, ICAI introduced PE-1 and PE-2 system of examinations in place of the Foundation and the Intermediate examinations. However, in 2006, ICAI revamped the system and launched CPT, IPCC and FC. The unique feature of the chartered accountancy is its curriculum, which is theoretical education with complementary practical training. A student would undergo theoretical education and practical training concurrently from the very beginning. This balanced approach helps the students to appreciate the underlying practical applications of the theoretical education scheme. Common Proficiency Test (CPT) CPT is an entry level test of four subjects i.e. Accounting, Mercantile Laws, General Economics and Quantitative Aptitude. Integrated Professional Competence Course (IPCC) This is first stage of CA curriculum wherein only working knowledge of core and allied subjects to accountancy profession is covered. The subjects of IPCC are classified into two groups which a student can study and appear in the examination group-wise or both the groups together. IPCC is designed to improve knowledge of accountancy linked to accounting standards to build strong foundation for developing knowledge of financial reporting at the final stage. The students update their knowledge of business communication, business strategies, taxes, information technology and audit. CA Final CA Final covers advanced application knowledge of core subjects like financial reporting, strategic financial management, advanced management accounting, advanced auditing and professional ethics and information systems control and audit. In addition, principles of e-governance, corporate and allied laws, international taxation and VAT are important features of the updated subject contents. Articleship The students after passing Group I of IPCC will register for Articleship for a period of three years with experienced CAs. Certain rules do apply - CAs with 16 years of experience and above can take on about 8 articles, those with less experience can train fewer articles and these teachers or 'Principals' as they are called, can be changed during the course of training. An agreement of training needs to be executed before it begins. During the training time, articles learn the technical details of the work and as time passes, they are given larger assignments with less supervision. All articled clerks are paid a stipend depending on their city's population. Start Early In today’s cut throat competitive world, it is advisable that a student starts planning right after class 10. For chartered accountancy, a student can register with the Board of Studies and prepare for entry level test while pursuing 10+2. It is better to take mathematics at this level. Students of commerce stream definitely have an advantage while pursuing this career. The latest scheme of CA is designed to encourage young talented students having aptitude for accounting education to make an early entry into the profession. Is it the Right Career for Me? It is generally believed that only students of commerce should pursue CA course. However, CA being a very practical course, the students from science and arts streams can equally benefit and make a successful career. Students of science and arts stream have to make extra efforts in order to understand some complex accounting nuances and have to get basic knowledge of various management topics. But it can be easily concluded that students of science and arts streams can be successful CAs, if they are ready to toil. What would it Cost Me? Unlike other professional courses, the fee for becoming a CA is very less, which is inclusive of the cost of study material. For registering with IPPC you have to shell out Rs 9000 while the fee for CPT is Rs 6700. Funding/Scholarship There is not much scope for any scholarships while pursuing chartered accountancy. Job Prospects On completion of the training, the candidates need to gain membership to the ICAI before they can start practicing as a CA. A member wishing to practice in India or abroad needs to obtain a Certificate of Practice from the ICAI, the yearly fee of which is Rs. 400. Once the membership is taken, the practicing member cannot work in any other business or occupation without taking permission from the council; they are only permitted to work in areas as specified in the CA regulations. More information on enrolment or the examinations can be requested from the Institute's offices or the Headquarters at Indraprastha, New Delhi or the Board of Studies, C1 - Sector 1, Noida - 201301. Pay Packet For CA Inter: Generally candidates holding CA inter-qualification are paid somewhere between Rs 7,500 and 15,000 depending on the type of firm. Payments can be higher for candidates possessing other qualifications such as MCom or an MBA. On the other hand starting salaries can be as little as Rs 4,500 to 5,000 in some small towns of the country. For CA Final (FCA): Starting salaries range between Rs 12,000 to 30,000 depending on the type of firm and nature of the economy. A full fledged CA can expect a salary between Rs 30,000 to 75,000 after serving a stint of more than 5 years at a top firm. Demand and Supply It can be easily concluded that the country needs about 7,500 to 10,000 fresh CAs every year seeing the growth of Indian economy in the last 5 years. Market Watch Chartered Accountants have been one of the most sought after professionals in India. Much of the reputation of CAs is due to the fact that their rigorous training (both theoretical and practical) makes them practically jack of all trades as far as the domain of finance is concerned. In spite of the sea change in global trade systems and practices, the requirement of CAs has remained steady. The demand for CAs has been growing between 10% to 15% over the past 3 – 4 years. The demand however depends on the state of the economy and there is direct bearing on the demand of CAs when the economy is in downtrend. But the statutory clause for mandatory appointment of CAs provides substantial cushion support to the CA fraternity as compared to other comparable peers. International Focus The qualification of CA is globally recognized hence industry outlook for CAs is bright indeed. Much recognition for CA degree is due to the fact that the CA course has been able to keep pace with changes in industry scenario. Several new modules and topics have not only been incorporated into the CA course but have been very effectively implemented to give increasing more power to the CA degree. In spite of the fact that several top-notch B-schools (including IIMs) have produced some of the most brilliant B-school grads, it is noteworthy that CAs has been able to retain their prominence in present world order. Positives/Negatives +ves The job is highly paying. CAs command tremendous respect in the organisations and society. -ves It can be a stressful job as the responsibilities are enormous and there is no scope for any errors. Regular update of knowledge is a must otherwise it may lead to stagnation in career. Different Roles, Different Names A Chartered Accountant’s work area has become so wide and involves so many activities that sometimes a CA is perceived as almost an enigma. A CA can start career with auditing activities, which is the basic work area of a CA. From here a more fulfilling career in finance can be pursed after getting enough exposure of intricacies of finance. As an investment consultant and as a fund manager a CA can play the role of a top decision maker. CAs also work in project management and consultancy services. Top Companies/Verticals Following are the areas where CAs find an opportunity: Banks (Both private and public) Public Limited Companies (mandatory for the purpose of law) Auditing Firms (such as KPMG, Price Waterhouse, etc.) Finance Companies, Mutual Funds, Portfolio Management Companies, Investment Houses, Stock Broking Firms Legal firms, Legal houses, Patent Firms, attorneys, Trade Mark and Copyright Registers Tips for Getting Hired Accounting is a precision oriented job. Pay attention to how you dress, speak and conduct yourself in company. These also add a personal charisma which helps in maintaining good relations with peers and clients. You need to understand the business world. It is also important that you show this understanding. Start looking at the bigger picture in terms of company numbers. This business acumen is a prerequisite for a CA. Leadership and analytical skills are vital to a chartered accountant. Besides these, work on your communication skills both oral and written. Be prepared to work long and hard when needed especially in the taxation months. Maintain high ethical standards.


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MBBS Course Tips

How To Manage Study Time During MBBS First Year Although every year matters, the first year in particular is very important to a student as it helps them figure out the teething problems in studying, introduces them to new technical terms, tests their fundamentals, what they studied in school, and enables in developing a strong understanding of the basics. This holds good for an MBBS course in particular. Thus, the first year could make you tiresome or even intimidate you because of the new subjects and concepts. Even though fearing this time is a natural instinct, your seniors have sailed the same boat you are in now and a clearer picture of the first year could help you plan your study timings. What Are The Subjects In MBBS First Year Let us first take a look at the subjects that you will have to study in the first year. powered by Rubicon Project Although the reference books and some concepts could differ according to different colleges, the subjects for all will remain more or less the same. The following are the subjects for first year MBBS course: Anatomy Osteology Embryology Physiology Biochemistry How Much Time Does Each MBBS Subject Take To Cover Everyday Ideally, an MBBS student must spend 6 hours a day for studying in the first year, to ace the tests. There are totally five subjects but the amount of time to be dedicated per subject depends on your proficiency or knowledge in each. If you are good at anatomy, spend one hour on that and focus on physiology for two hours. The attention span of a human being could be less. This means, you cannot take too long to study everyday and slog. So keep your preparation time crisp. Even though six hours is required, divide them accordingly, so that you are able to focus during your study hours.


isty, decisive, daring, and ready to change India’s politics? The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are set to be a turning point in India’s history. But there will be one kingmaker or queenmaker to watch out for. Meet the first-time woman voter. Whether it is transforming their communities, working on the next big innovation, breaking conventions through music and art, or?redefining the rules of business, young women from villages and small cities are achieving the unimaginable. They, and their aspirations, will change India in the next decade. And The Quint’s six-month long campaign, “Me, the Change,” presented by Facebook, is telling you exactly what they want and how they’ll get there. The question is, are you ready? Why the First-Time Woman Voter? Contemporary research and data show that three factors will be crucial in the elections. One, the number of first-time voters. According to the Election Commission of India, roughly 2.6 crore young people in the age bracket of 18 to 20 years have already been registered in the electoral rolls. Two, the tendency of first-time voters to be uncommitted; making them the main target of every political party. And three, the influence of social media on this demographic to shape political consciousness. Young men and women live and love on Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp; why should politics be different? In this zoomed-in demographic, the first-time women voters are largely unheard of. They are working hard, overcoming extraordinary hurdles and changing their lives slowly but steadily. But what do they want? A good salary? The freedom to marry who she wants? More access to empowering information? Or a fiery ambition to make something out of herself? It’s a simple question but one which might just determine the electoral future of India. What Will ‘Me, the Change’ Campaign Do? The Quint’s “Me, The Change” campaign will focus on first-time women voters through the stories of ten women ‘achievers’ — women in small cities and villages who have overcome their immediate struggles to do something extraordinary and are now working to multiply this impact in their communities. We will be hosting an event to felicitate these achievers and spark a discussion on the issues that matter to first-time women voters ahead of the 2019 elections. As part of the initiative, The Quint will conduct?a nation-wide survey?to understand what first-time women voters seek from the new government.?Throughout the campaign, we will invite stories from and?of young women achievers. The Quint will also promote?a ‘Go Vote’ campaign to?educate?young women about the power of their vote. During Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Mizoram, the campaign will go on-ground and host?regional chaupals with women voters. If you know a young woman achiever, or have always been in awe of a friend, or a sister, or a colleague’s grit and gumption, tell us! Nominate a first-time woman voter who’s changing her world. We’re listening.
Reliance Jio on Friday announced the 'Jio Happy New Year Offer' to offer customers with a 100 percent cashback on the recharge of Rs. 399. The new offer, which will last until January 31, 2019, comes in partnership with fashion portal Ajio. Thus, the cashback comes in the form of an Ajio coupon worth Rs. 399. The coupon can be redeemed over and above the existing Ajio offers. The new move comes days after Reliance Jio extended the Jio Celebrations Pack that adds 2GB of additional data for five days. Under the Jio Happy New Year Offer, Reliance Jio is offering those who buy the Rs. 399 recharge the same priced Ajio coupon that can be redeemed over and above the existing Ajio offers. The coupon will be credited in the MyCoupons section of the MyJio app. Further, the coupon can be used on the Ajio app or website to make purchases with a minimum cart value of Rs. 1,000. The Jio Happy New Year Offer will run between December 28, 2018, and January 31, 2019. The Ajio coupon received under the offer can be redeemed on or before March 15. It is worth noting here that the Jio Happy New Year Offer is applicable only on the Rs. 399 recharge that is considered as the highest selling tariff by the telco. Furthermore, the offer is applicable to both existing and new Jio users. The Jio Happy New Year Offer is valid will also the Rs. 399 recharges done through any official channel, including Jio retailers and online. As we mentioned, the new offer comes days after Reliance Jio extended the Jio Celebration Pack that offers 2GB of additional data for free, offering 10GB data over the course of five days. The pack was initially launched back in September, though it extended for some users last month.
Modi ripped into Kerala's Left-led government and the opposition Congress over the handling of the Sabarimala temple issue since the Supreme Court verdict ended the shrine's traditional ban on women of reproductive age. Amid the massive protests -- against the verdict and the women who reached Sabarimala -- the state government had said it was duty-bound to implement the top court's orders. The state's stand had drawn enormous criticism from the right-wing groups who had hit the streets over the issue. Attacks also came from the BJP, which has been trying to expand its footprint in the state. In Kollam today for the launch of two projects, PM Modi said: "The CPM government's conduct on Sabarimala will go down in history as the most shameful action of any government in power... We know CPM government never respected spirituality, religion... but no one thought it would turn so shameful". The Congress-led UDF, which is now in the opposition, is "no better", he said. Accusing the Congress of having multiple stands, he challenged the UDF to "clearly state your stand". While the state BJP had openly backed the traditional ban and the strikes to protest against the court order, the Congress had not been vocal about its support. In his interview of ANI on New Year's day, PM Modi said the ban on women between the ages of 10 and 50 at the Sabarimala temple was a matter of tradition. "There are some temples which have their own traditions, where men can't go. And men don't go," he said.