Latest news with #RaviChopra
Time of India
22-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Doon activists oppose Rispana-Bindal road project
Dehradun: Various social, women's and environmental organisations in Dehradun announced a public campaign on Sunday to demand pro-people development projects for the city while opposing the proposed Rispana-Bindal elevated road corridor. According to activists, such projects disproportionately affect marginalised communities and harm the environment. "Safeguarding the environment, providing relief from traffic congestion and protecting the interests of daily wage earners must be the priorities. We will intensify public agitation in the coming weeks. This project threatens both the environment and the community, and it will not alleviate traffic congestion as claimed," said Dr Ravi Chopra from the Uttarakhand Insaniyat Manch. Other activists questioned the economic rationale behind the initiative. "If the govt can spend Rs 6,200 crore in Dehradun, the public can certainly help define a target for people-centric development that truly addresses the city's core issues," said social activist Anoop Nautiyal. The proposed 26 km project, activists said, may benefit private companies and govt officers, but it threatens the settlements and housing rights of labourers. To raise awareness, activists announced plans for signature campaigns, public meetings and citywide protests in the coming weeks.
Time of India
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Did you know Tabu REJECTED Hema Malini's role in Baghban opposite Amitabh Bachchan as she didn't want to play mother of four kids at the age of 36?
Baghban is a cherished film in many Indian middle-class homes, praised for its emotional story and strong performances by and . But not many know that Hema almost rejected the role. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In an old interview with Lehren Retro, she revealed that when director Ravi Chopra came to narrate the script at her home, her mother was also present — and that moment made her hesitant to say yes. Hema Malini once shared that she was unsure about doing Baghban when Ravi Chopra offered her the role of a mother to four grown-up sons. She found it hard to imagine herself in that part. But her mother, who was present during the narration, insisted she take it up, saying the story was strong and the role would suit her well. Though Hema had doubts, especially after being away from films for a while, her mother's encouragement convinced her to say yes. Interestingly, the Sholay actress wasn't the only actor who had to be convinced to do Baghban. The role of Pooja Malhotra was first offered to Tabu. Although she liked the script, she turned it down, unwilling to play the mother of four children at just 36. She later starred opposite Amitabh Bachchan in Cheeni Kum. Even Big B wasn't the original choice—director Ravi Chopra had initially approached veteran actor , who declined the role.
