Latest news with #Dhyan
The Hindu
17-07-2025
- The Hindu
A year later, Wayanad landslides survivors tell a tale of resilience
Nived would have turned 10 on July 7, but fate had other plans. He lies in a single grave with his siblings Dhyan and Ishan at Puthumala in Meppadi, their lives cut short in the devastating Wayanad disaster of July 30, 2024. Despite the light showers, the remnants of a heart-wrenching tribute left by their grieving parents remain: cakes, chocolate bars, pens, and toy bikes scattered on the grave, a reminder of the joy that would never be. The darkness of that fateful night still lingers in the minds of the Chooralmala-Mundakkai disaster survivors. July 30, 2024 was a day that will forever be remembered as a day of unmitigated tragedy in Wayanad. The cries of the lost, the screams of the terrified, and the desperate wails for help still echo through the ravaged landscape, a haunting reminder of the lives forever shattered. For the survivors, the memories of that night are a painful wound that refuses to heal. Those memories constantly remind them of what was lost and what can never be regained. As they struggle to rebuild their lives, the question that haunts them is: will the wounds of that night ever fade, or will they remain a perpetual scar on the hearts of those who lived through it? Noufal Kalathingal's eyes still hold the weight of his unimaginable loss: 11 family members, including his mother, wife, and children. Yet he finds solace in rebuilding his life. His bakery-cum-restaurant, 'July 30,' is a reminder of the day that changed his life forever. The date etched into his shop's name is a bittersweet reminder of the family he lost while he was away in Muscat. Noufal's voice trembled as he revealed the cafe's inspiration. 'My wife always dreamed of me coming home to start a cafe. July 30 is for her,' he says in words faltering with emotion. 'I still hear my wife Shaija's cries for help in my mind. I lost her and 11 other family members, including my brother and his wife, that fateful night,' says K.R. Unnikrishnan. A wistful smile on this mason's face hints at a fragile acceptance, a tentative truce with the unbearable loss. 'I close my eyes, and the memories come flooding back. The sound of the landslide, like a massive helicopter lowering, still echoes in my mind almost a year later,' recalls Abdul Salam, a pick-up van driver, who lost 29 family members. 'That night taught me what fear truly is,' he says, his eyes gleaming with a rare intensity. Heart-wrenching stories of the tragedy, survival, and unbearable losses are a familiar narrative for hundreds of people who lived through the disaster. They are spread out across Wayanad and are living in rented accommodations. Many still find it unbearable to even consider returning to the village that was once their home and a gem of the Meppadi panchayat in Wayanad. The government has declared a substantial area of Mundakkai and Chooralmala as unsafe for habitation. Several houses that escaped damage from the landslides and floods have also been declared unfit for occupation. A committee led by geoscientist John Mathai has identified 107.5 hectares as unsafe, recommending restrictions on construction and human activity in these vulnerable areas. The district administration has prohibited entry to the areas ravaged by the disaster, which were once a favourite among tourists for their scenic landscapes. Repeated requests from this reporter for a revisit to the area of devastation on its first anniversary too fell on deaf ears. 'Sorry, we can't let you in,' asserts Additional District Magistrate of Wayanad K. Devaki. The site poses significant risks with open wells concealed under layers of soft mud and septic tanks, potentially stripped of their concrete covers, creating hidden dangers. A careless step could prove disastrous. Furthermore, the Bailey bridge, hastily constructed by the Army soon after the disaster, has developed worrying cracks in its foundation, say government officials who refuse to be quoted. The government is clearing the debris, including massive boulders. The Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society has started clearing the Punnapuzha riverbed as part of a ₹195-crore river rejuvenation project. The official toll of buildings stands at 482 destroyed, 242 partially damaged, and 661 deemed unfit for habitation, with most of the buildings being residential homes. Official records indicate that the landslides caused 298 fatalities, with 32 people reported missing. The recovery efforts yielded 223 body parts from different areas. The floodwaters swept away mangled limbs, severed heads, and dismembered torsos downstream, cascading through treacherous waterfalls, including Soochipara Falls, before leaving a trail of unimaginable horror as far as Vazhakkad, nearly 50 km away from Chooralmala. Furthermore, 35 people were injured and significant crop damage was reported, with 29.2216 hectares of agricultural land destroyed. People of Meppadi estimate that the fatalities could exceed official numbers and might potentially reach 400 due to suspected casualties of migrant workers. Abdul Salam shares this concern, stating that the DNA examination process was hindered by the absence of references to match the body parts. 'It has complicated the fatality count,' he says. The graveyard at Harrison Malayalam tea estate at Puthumala features tombstones with cryptic labels such as N18 and N244, reflecting the confusion about unidentified victims. Many of the numbered tombstones were replaced with inscriptions bearing the victims' names once they were identified. The graveyard stands as a testimony to the communal harmony that defined the lives of Chooralmala and Mundakkai residents. In death, as in life, victims of different faiths are resting together, with Hindus and Muslims lying side by side. Niyas Erakkadan's grave is nestled between those of Vishnu Sudevan and Rukmini Vadakke Cheruvil, while Rahmat Latheef's grave is flanked by Sudevan's and V.S. Sajimon's. Death is the greatest leveller, they say. The graveyard's solemn landscape tells a heart-wrenching tale. Some graves hold siblings together in eternal rest, while others are a haunting testament to the disaster's brutality, with a single life scattered across multiple graves: a head in one, torso in another, limbs in yet another, a painful reminder of the fragments of lives lost. 'Visiting this place will inevitably leave its mark on your heart,' warns Wayanad district panchayat president Samshad Marakkar. He is unable to hide the scars of trauma that he endured as a leading rescuer in the early hours of July 30, 2024. Despite the trauma they have endured, survivors are struggling to cope with their new reality while living in temporary shelters. However, with humanitarian aid, some are showing remarkable resilience and determination to rebuild their lives. A flurry of organisations rushed to help survivors after the tragedy, but the relief efforts were marred by uneven distribution. Some received ample support while others were left empty-handed, fuelling discontent and protests. The confusion was compounded by the blurred lines between private and government aid, leaving many feeling frustrated and overlooked. Abdul Majeed's words echo with frustration: 'Some people got undeserved benefits while others did not get what they deserved. An organisation gave me an autorickshaw, but I cannot run it without a permit. To get one, I will have to spend ₹1.75 lakh. But people see the autorickshaw and think I have hit the jackpot, not knowing I am struggling to make ends meet after losing my home.' While private groups and organisations stepped in to help the survivors rebuild their livelihoods, the government support was scarce. A government-backed initiative to create a tailoring village, which provided sewing machines to survivors, fell flat as few were interested in the trade. Some beneficiaries even sold the machines they received at half price. The survivors had to agitate to get the government's temporary relief measures extended for a year. Initially, the government had offered ₹6,000 per month for families as rent and ₹9,000 for two members of each family for three months as financial support, and the survivors fought for this assistance to be continued until this July. 'The government's inflexible rules have failed the survivors, forcing them to fight for their rights. While officials stick strictly to protocol, we are driven by humanitarian concerns,' says Marakkar. Marakkar points out that the government's rigid rules forced the survivors to fight for their rights. 'The John Mathai report was a case in point where protests led to Dr. Mathai revising his rules,' he says. 'If his document has been scientific, no agitation could alter it,' he adds. The government is pushing forward with a massive rehabilitation project, constructing a model township at Elstone Estate in Kalpetta. But the initiative has been marred by confusion, with political parties and organisations offering competing housing schemes. The Indian Union Muslim League is at odds with the government over its offer of around 100 houses. Many people are questioning the government about the utilisation of ₹776 crore contributed to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund for the Wayanad tragedy. Revenue Minister K. Rajan says the government has spent ₹108.21 crore on relief efforts, which includes ₹43.77 crore for land acquisition, ₹13.3 crore in compensation to victim families, ₹15.6 crore in housing assistance to 104 families, ₹10.1 crore for livelihood support to 1,133 people, ₹1.3 crore in immediate aid, ₹4.3 crore in rental assistance, and additional amounts for injured persons and funeral expenses. The government has begun work on a model township with 410 houses on 64 hectares of land on the Kalpetta bypass road. At present, 104 beneficiaries have opted out and received ₹15 lakh each. Government officials say they will complete the township by December. Each beneficiary will receive a 1,000-sq. ft house on seven cents of land, with amenities, including a health centre, a modern anganwadi, commercial spaces, and a community centre. The construction is being handled by the ULCCS, and a model house is almost ready. As their wounds slowly begin to heal, the people of Chooralmala and Mundakkai will continue to carry the scars of that fateful night. Their journey to recovery will be long and painful. As they rebuild their homes and their lives, they remind us that their resilience will be the guiding light in the darkness.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Dhyan Sreenivasan dreams of a 'Chotta Mumbai'-style entertainer with Mohanlal - 'That's my personal dream'
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) Actor-director Dhyan Sreenivasan has revealed that he wishes to direct a vibrant commercial entertainer featuring Mohanlal , reminiscent of the cult hit 'Chotta Mumbai'. In a recent interview, Dhyan shared his long-held desire to craft a full-fledged masala film packed with humour, dance, music, and action. As reported by Mathrubhumi, speaking to an online channel, Dhyan said, 'We've been thinking of doing a film with Lal sir. It's still in the discussion phase, but the film I have in mind is very much in the Chotta Mumbai zone.' He explained that the story has been with him for years and was always imagined with either Mohanlal or Mammootty in the lead. 'That's my personal dream,' he said. Mohanlal's energy is meant to be celebrated, says Dhyan Reflecting on Mohanlal's current filmography, Dhyan pointed out the need for a celebratory, high-energy role for the superstar. Dhyan said that Mohanlal has intense thrillers in his career, but a film like 'Chotta Mumbai' is more about celebrating the star on screen. The 'Varshangalkku Shesham' actor said that there's humour, dance, and fun in such films, and this is something that the audience loves. Dhyan highlighted how Mohanlal's ability to light up the screen in lighter, commercial roles is something worth revisiting, especially for fans who love his dynamic range. Mohanlal Confirms Drishyam 3 Release |Georgekutty Is Back Discussions with writer Nishad Koya and a casual pitch to Pranav Mohanlal Dhyan revealed that he has been discussing the concept with writer Nishad Koya and even casually mentioned the idea to Mohanlal's family. Dhyan said that he had shared this to Mohanlal's wife Suchitra and his son Pranav during a flight. Although Dhyan said that there is no confirmed plan, there may be a 10 percent chance for it to happen. "I'll try. Maybe I'll pitch it one day,' he admitted. On the other hand, Dhyan Sreenivasan's recent film was 'Detective Ujjwalan'.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Bha Bha Ba' teaser: Dileep, Dhyan & Vineeth Sreenivasan dive into chaos in this madcap comedy
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) Dileep 's latest venture promises humour, confusion, and a whole lot of madness. The teaser of 'Bha Bha Ba', Dileep's much-talked-about comedy entertainer, is finally out — and it plunges viewers straight into a world where chaos reigns and everyone is just a little unhinged. "Everybody in this world is a bit crazy" Unveiled on July 4, the teaser gives a peek into the lives of the film's lead characters, played by Dileep, Vineeth Sreenivasan , and Dhyan Sreenivasan . Running for 1 minute and 38 seconds, the video opens with a voiceover stating, 'Let's be real, everybody in this world is a bit crazy,' setting the tone for the unpredictable ride that follows. Vineeth vs Dhyan , and Dileep in the middle The teaser first places the spotlight on Vineeth and Dhyan, who seem to be locked in a humorous rivalry, possibly as media figures or attention-seeking personalities. The recently released poster introduced Dhyan's character as Godson Ancharakandy — and if the teaser is anything to go by, his antics are bound to turn heads. Just when you think the chaos can't get any worse, Dileep steps in . From the looks of it, Dileep's character might be the one stirring up all the madness. BHA BHA BA TEASER | Dileep | Gokulam Gopalan | Vineeth Sreenivasan | Dhyan | Dhananjay Shankar A much-needed comeback vehicle? After a few underwhelming box office outings, 'Bha Bha Ba' could be the comeback film Dileep fans have been waiting for. Social media is already abuzz with excitement, not just for the teaser but also with curiosity over possible cameo appearances in the film. A packed cast and promising laughs Directed as a full-blown comedy entertainer, 'Bha Bha Ba' also features an ensemble supporting cast including Redin Kingsley, Sandy Master, Balu Varghese, Siddarth Bharathan, Baiju Santhosh, and Saranya Ponvannan. The film's official release date is expected to be announced soon. Meanwhile, Dileep's previous outing was the comedy entertainer 'Prince and Family' which turned out to be a superhit.
The Print
22-06-2025
- Health
- The Print
Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan holds meditation and wellness event at Bharat Mandapam
A pre-event survey conducted by DJJS in April, involving 300 participants, showed significantly lower stress levels in meditators compared to non-meditators, highlighting the need for such sessions, the organisers said. The event titled 'Dhyaan: The Ultimate Game Changer! Har Kadam Jeet Ki Aur' was hosted by the organisation as part of its corporate workshop wing, the PEACE Programme The event featured sessions on Brahm Gyan Dhyaan, including guided explanations, models, and demonstrations. New Delhi, Jun 22 (PTI) Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), a socio-spiritual organisation, hosted a meditation and wellness programme at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi's Pragati Maidan on Sunday. 'This event aims to educate about Dhyan, overcome personal and professional challenges, attain development in holistic well-being, and to develop our mental energy's,' said Dr. Nidhi Bharti, who led one of the sessions. Attendees included professionals from academic, medical, and corporate backgrounds, including CEOs, AIIMS doctors, university vice-chancellors, and officials from Tihar Jail,including Prateek Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Delhi Technological University, Major Shashank from the Ministry of Defence, and CA Gopal Kedia, former judge at the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal. PTI SGV SLB NB NB This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Detective Ujjwalan' box office collections day 20: Dhyan Sreenivasan's film dips; mints Rs 6.84 crores
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) After a decent start and a steady run in its early days, Dhyan Sreenivasan's investigative comedy thriller 'Detective Ujjwalan' is now witnessing a noticeable dip in box office numbers. The film, which blends humour with suspense, has collected Rs 6.84 crore globally as of Day 20, with Rs 6.33 crore from its domestic net collections. Gradual Decline in Daily Earnings According to the Sacnilk website, the drop in footfalls over the past week reflects the film's waning momentum. From earning Rs 85 lakhs on its opening day and Rs 78 lakhs on Day 2, the film peaked early and began to slow down after its first weekend. By Day 10, collections dropped to Rs 20 lakhs and have continued on a downward trajectory since. The last five days have seen particularly low figures — Rs 13 lakhs on Day 16, Rs 14 lakhs on Day 15, and only Rs 4 lakhs on Day 20. While the early buzz around the film helped boost its initial box office performance, sustained traction has proven difficult, especially in the face of new releases and mixed audience word-of-mouth. Detective Ujjwalan - Official Trailer No Final Verdict Yet, But Overall Performance Steady Despite the dip, 'Detective Ujjwalan' has managed to cross Rs 6 crore in India, a respectable feat for a regional film with a niche genre appeal. ETimes gave the movie a rating of 2.5 star out of 5 and our official review reads, 'There are some rules that a detective story needs to make it work and for the effect to stay with us. Some red herrings that will confuse the audience so that we are emotionally and intellectually caught up in the story, a detective who uses logic that will baffle us with its brilliance and a final revelation of the culprit that will shock us. Detective Ujjwalan does not use any of these devices in a forceful enough manner. The period settings are interesting and the village characters are loveable enough, though some of the superb comic talents from social media, Ameen, Nihal Nizam, Nibraz and Shahubas, are barely utilised. The film seems to go in the direction of most Dhyan films; a bit of an anti-climax.'
