National

Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Dev Sai Announces Tax Exemption for ‘Chhava’

Published

1 year ago

February 27, 2025

On Wednesday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai announced that the Bollywood film ‘Chhava’, which portrays the life of Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, will benefit from an exemption from state entertainment taxes. This announcement was made during a media briefing after the Rajim Kumbh (Kalp) event, with the intention of making the historical film more accessible to a broader audience, especially the youth.

CM Sai emphasized that ‘Chhava’ is not simply a film but a homage to India’s rich traditions of bravery and self-respect. The movie chronicles the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Shivaji Maharaj, showcasing his resistance to Mughal forces and his strategic acumen. He remarked, “This film will kindle patriotism and remind our youth of the sacrifices that shaped our nation,” encouraging viewers to connect with India’s illustrious past through this cinematic experience.

By eliminating entertainment taxes, the government aims to reduce ticket prices, allowing more people to enjoy the film. The CM highlighted that this initiative aligns with the state’s dedication to promoting art that fortifies cultural identity and historical awareness. He affirmed, “Our government will continually support films that inspire societal consciousness and pride in India’s heritage.”

While the decision has received widespread acclaim, it has also attracted political criticism. Sushil Anand Shukla, a senior leader of the Congress party, expressed concerns that the move prioritizes symbolic gestures over substantial governance. He argued that instead of making decisions aimed at garnering media attention, the government should concentrate on critical issues like unemployment, inflation, healthcare, and education. Shukla accused the ruling party of diverting focus away from unaddressed promises, emphasizing that symbolic actions cannot substitute for meaningful measures that improve public welfare.

‘Chhava’ dramatizes Sambhaji Maharaj’s enduring fight against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, highlighting his martyrdom and leadership qualities. Veteran journalist R Krishna Das comments that the film has the potential to alter public perception of the frequently overlooked Maratha king, whose legacy is integral to the shared history of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh.

The tax exemption reflects the state’s broader strategy of leveraging cinema as a medium for cultural education. CM Sai urged citizens, particularly the youth, to engage with the film, stating, “Understanding our history is key to navigating our future.”

As ‘Chhava’ draws audiences to theaters across Chhattisgarh, the government’s decision to make the film tax-free has sparked a greater discussion about the role of cinema in nation-building. Supporters view this as an effort to reclaim and promote historical narratives, while Congress has called for enhanced transparency regarding the criteria for granting tax exemptions.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

1 week ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.

National

Man Killed by Wife’s Lover in Andhra Pradesh, Son Raises Alarm

Published

1 week ago

April 8, 2026

Namma Kudla

Andhra Pradesh: A 45-year-old man was killed by his wife’s lover in Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh. The incident happened on Monday night in a forest area near Chowdepalli.

The victim, Gandhi from Tamil Nadu, had come with his five-year-old son to search for his wife. Police said the wife was in a relationship with another man named Narasimhulu.

Narasimhulu allegedly took Gandhi and the child into the forest. He and his aides then attacked Gandhi with a stone and killed him in front of the boy.

The frightened child hid in nearby bushes. After the attackers left, he stayed beside his father’s body the whole night.

At sunrise, the boy walked to a nearby village and informed locals. The police were alerted and started an investigation.

Police have taken the accused and his two aides into custody. The child has been placed in a care centre.

National

Woman Delivers Baby Girl on Train in Andhra Pradesh

Published

1 week ago

April 8, 2026

Namma Kudla

Andhra Pradesh : A pregnant woman gave birth to a baby girl on a moving train in Andhra Pradesh. The incident ended safely with the help of railway staff.

The woman was eight months pregnant. She boarded the train with her family, believing she still had one month left for delivery. She was travelling from Chennai to Dhanbad on Train No. 13352.

After the train crossed Annavaram station, she began to feel labour pain. Her family members became worried and immediately informed the ticket examiner.

Railway staff member G. Jyothi responded quickly and helped the woman. Understanding the emergency, the train was given a special halt at Elamanchili station. An ambulance was also arranged.

The woman delivered a healthy baby girl on the train. After the delivery, both the mother and the newborn were shifted to Elamanchili Government Hospital in a 108 ambulance.

Officials confirmed that both the mother and baby are safe and healthy. The train was halted at the station for about 40 minutes to manage the situation.

Railway staff ensured privacy by asking male passengers to leave the coach. Their timely action helped ensure a safe delivery.

This incident highlights the importance of quick response and human support during emergencies.