Monthly Archives: September 2025

Karnataka High Court Issues Contempt Notice To Top Officials Over Illegal Appointment

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Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has issued a contempt notice to Umashankar, Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, and Anjali Devi, Director of Prosecution and Government Litigation department, for alleged willful disobedience of a prior court order.

The notice follows a petition filed by Advocate Sudha Katwa, who accused the officials of violating the High Court’s directive dated December 2021. The court had explicitly prohibited the posting of officials facing disciplinary proceedings. Despite this, the petition alleges that Narayanaswamy was appointed as Senior Law Officer, Bengaluru.

This case traces back to the 2012-13 Assistant Public Prosecutor (APP) and Assistant Government Pleader (AGP) recruitment scam. Narayanaswamy and several senior Department of Personnel officials are accused of manipulating marks, forging signatures of High Court justices, and fabricating documents during the recruitment process.

While approximately 60 APP/AGP candidates have not been given postings due to ongoing investigations, the government reportedly appointed only Narayanaswamy to a senior position. This selective appointment prompted the contempt petition before the Karnataka High Court.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/karnataka-high-court-issues-contempt-notice-to-top-officials-over-illegal-appointment

Rajinikanth announces ‘Jailer 2’ release date, completes Kerala shoot

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**Rajinikanth Announces ‘Jailer 2’ Release Date, Completes Kerala Shoot**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | September 24, 2025, 2:25 PM*

The shooting of **Jailer 2**, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2023 blockbuster *Jailer*, is currently underway. Superstar Rajinikanth recently completed a shooting schedule in Kerala and announced that the film will be released on **June 12, 2026**. The announcement came at Chennai airport, where Rajinikanth was warmly welcomed by enthusiastic fans.

### Shooting Updates: Filming in Full Swing

The production of *Jailer 2* is taking place across multiple locations, with recent scenes shot near Palakkad, Kerala. Fans gathered to catch a glimpse of Rajinikanth, who greeted them by waving from his car’s sunroof. The Kerala schedule featured elaborate sets and intense action sequences, reportedly including the climax of the film.

### Cast and Expectations

*Jailer 2* promises to deliver another blockbuster experience, blending high-octane action with a mix of returning and new cast members. Alongside Rajinikanth, familiar faces from the original film will return, while notable additions such as SJ Suryah and Nandamuri Balakrishna join the ensemble.

Directed by Nelson, the first *Jailer* was a massive commercial success, grossing approximately ₹600 crore worldwide despite receiving mixed reviews. With the sequel in production, fans eagerly await another thrilling installment from this franchise.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Jailer 2* as the release date approaches!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jailer-2-rajinikanth-announces-the-sequel-s-release-date/story

Mercedes-Benz working on an entry-level car to replace A-Class

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**Mercedes-Benz Developing New Entry-Level Car to Replace A-Class**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | September 24, 2025 – 1:35 PM*

Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to launch a new entry-level model as part of its strategy to boost sales volume. This move comes on the heels of the company extending the lifecycle of its popular A-Class hatchback and sedan by an additional two years, pushing production until 2028. This decision underscores how automakers sometimes reassess market demands and customer preferences to stay competitive.

### Strategic Shift: Hybrid Over Fully Electric

Previously committed to a fully electric lineup by 2030 “where market conditions allow,” Mercedes-Benz has updated its approach. The automaker now plans to keep combustion engines alive well into the next decade, possibly beyond, signaling a shift towards a hybrid strategy. This broader change includes developing a new entry-level model designed to fill the pricing gap between existing vehicles in its portfolio.

### Filling the Price Gap

The upcoming entry-level car will occupy the space between the current A-Class and the forthcoming electric CLA. In Germany, the A-Class starts at approximately €34,400. Meanwhile, the combustion-powered CLA, although less expensive than its electric counterpart, remains pricier than the A-Class, creating a significant price gap. Once the A-Class is eventually phased out, Mercedes-Benz’s base offering will likely start in the mid-€40,000s range.

### Official Confirmation

Mathias Geisen, Mercedes-Benz’s management board member for marketing and sales, confirmed that the new entry-level car is in development. He remarked, “Believe me: in the long term, there will be an entry-level model in the Mercedes-Benz world,” affirming the company’s commitment to catering to a broader customer base.

### Market Strategy: Balancing Volume and Premium Appeal

While launching a more affordable vehicle may not generate as much profit per unit compared to higher-end models, increased sales volume can help balance Mercedes-Benz’s overall financials. This approach mirrors strategies from other premium brands like BMW and Audi, which continue to offer competitively priced models without compromising their luxury image.

### Design and Features: What to Expect?

Details about the design and features of the new entry-level model remain under wraps. Automotive publication Automobilwoche speculates the vehicle might be a crossover, though many enthusiasts hope for a CLA hatchback or a similar stylish offering rather than yet another SUV.

For now, Mercedes-Benz will continue to produce the A-Class in both five-door hatchback and four-door sedan variants across global markets until the new model arrives.

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Stay tuned for more updates on Mercedes-Benz’s exciting plans to evolve its entry-level lineup and redefine premium accessibility.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/mercedes-benz-to-develop-new-entry-level-model-ditching-ev-only-strategy/story

Pearl couscous: 5 recipes you’ll love

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**Pearl Couscous: 5 Recipes You’ll Love**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 24, 2025, 01:54 PM*

Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli or Jerusalem couscous, is a small pasta-like grain that adds a delightful texture to a variety of dishes. Its versatility makes it an excellent base for salads, sides, and even main courses. Below are five exciting recipes that highlight the unique qualities of pearl couscous. Each dish offers a different flavor profile and showcases how this ingredient can elevate your culinary creations.

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### 1. Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad

This refreshing Mediterranean pearl couscous salad is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. Combine cooked pearl couscous with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Toss everything in a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an added zing.

Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner parties, this salad offers a bright and fresh taste that complements many meals.

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### 2. Roasted Vegetable Pearl Couscous Bowl

Hearty and nutritious, this roasted vegetable pearl couscous bowl is packed with wholesome ingredients. Roast your favorite vegetables—such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots—until tender. Mix them with cooked pearl couscous and add chickpeas for a protein boost.

Season with warming spices like cumin or paprika and serve with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce for creamy richness.

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### 3. Spicy Pearl Couscous Stir-Fry

For those who enjoy bold and vibrant flavors, try this spicy pearl couscous stir-fry. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add bell peppers and snap peas. Stir in cooked pearl couscous along with soy sauce and sriracha to taste.

Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an added crunch and a burst of flavor.

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### 4. Lemon Herb Pearl Couscous Pilaf

This aromatic lemon herb pilaf is a perfect side dish that pairs well with a variety of entrees. Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions, but use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.

Once cooked, mix in lemon zest, juice from half a lemon, chopped dill, and parsley leaves. Season lightly with salt if needed and serve warm alongside grilled vegetables.

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### 5. Sweet Potato and Kale Pearls

Combining nutrition and taste, these sweet potato and kale pearls offer a wholesome meal option. Roast sweet potato cubes until caramelized, then add kale leaves and cook until wilted.

Mix everything with boiled pearl couscous lightly seasoned with black pepper, ensuring each bite is packed with goodness without overwhelming the palate.

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Pearl couscous is truly a versatile ingredient that can be adapted to many flavor profiles and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer fresh and light salads, hearty bowls, or vibrant stir-fries, these recipes will inspire you to explore the wonderful world of pearl couscous in your kitchen. Enjoy!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/pearl-couscous-5-recipes-you-ll-love/story

Rajinikanth announces ‘Jailer 2’ release date, completes Kerala shoot

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**Rajinikanth Announces ‘Jailer 2’ Release Date, Completes Kerala Shoot**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 24, 2025, 02:25 PM*

The highly anticipated sequel to the 2023 blockbuster *Jailer* is well underway. *Jailer 2* is currently in the midst of shooting, with its lead star Rajinikanth recently wrapping up a schedule in Kerala. During his visit to Chennai airport, Rajinikanth excitedly announced that the film is set to release on June 12, 2026. The superstar was greeted enthusiastically by fans upon his arrival.

**Shooting Details: ‘Jailer 2’ in Full Swing**

Filming for *Jailer 2* is taking place across multiple locations, with recent shoots spotted near Palakkad, Kerala. Fans warmly welcomed Rajinikanth, who waved to them from his car’s sunroof. The production’s action sequences and elaborate sets attracted significant attention locally. Reports indicate that the climax of *Jailer 2* was filmed during this Kerala schedule.

**Cast Highlights: New and Returning Faces**

The sequel aims to build on the success of the original with high-octane action and a compelling cast. Returning major stars from *Jailer* will be joined by popular actors SJ Suryah and Nandamuri Balakrishna, who are new additions to the ensemble.

Directed by Nelson, the first *Jailer* movie was a massive success, grossing around ₹600 crore worldwide despite receiving mixed reviews. Fans and industry insiders alike are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this action-packed franchise.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Jailer 2* as it progresses towards its June 2026 release.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jailer-2-rajinikanth-announces-the-sequel-s-release-date/story

Man trying to serve Taylor Swift deposition papers gets himself arrested

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**Man Trying to Serve Taylor Swift Deposition Papers Ends Up Arrested**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | September 24, 2025, 1:18 PM*

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**What Happened?**

A man was arrested for trespassing at NFL player Travis Kelce’s Kansas residence on September 15, according to local reports. The suspect, identified as Justin Lee Fisher, allegedly attempted to serve deposition papers to Kelce’s fiancée, pop star Taylor Swift. The papers were related to the ongoing legal battle between actor-director Justin Baldoni and his *It Ends With Us* co-star Blake Lively.

The incident took place around 2:00 AM local time after police received reports of a trespasser near Kelce’s gated home in Leawood, Kansas.

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**Legal Implications**

Justin Lee Fisher, a former police officer turned private investigator, was charged with misdemeanor criminal trespassing. He reportedly jumped the fence into Kelce’s gated estate to deliver the deposition papers on behalf of Baldoni’s legal team.

However, details of the incident remain limited. The official one-page police report noted in bold letters, “This information is restricted as to use and dissemination,” providing scant additional information.

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**Case Background**

Earlier this month, Judge Lewis Liman denied Baldoni’s request to depose Taylor Swift. On September 12, Liman ruled that Baldoni’s team had waited too long to serve the deposition and had failed to demonstrate sufficient cause for extending the original September 30 deadline.

“Having failed to demonstrate appropriate diligence, the requested extension is denied,” Judge Liman wrote.

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**Legal Responses**

Baldoni claimed Swift would testify, but her lawyer Douglas Baldridge denied this assertion. Baldridge emphasized that Swift “has no material role in this action” and “did not agree to a deposition.”

Baldoni’s legal team reportedly sought to obtain information regarding conversations between Swift and Lively about working conditions on the set of *It Ends With Us*.

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**Ongoing Legal Battle**

The dispute began in December when Blake Lively filed a lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, his Wayfarer Studios colleagues, publicist, and crisis PR firm. Lively alleged sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign after raising concerns about workplace misconduct.

The conflict escalated when Baldoni responded with a $400 million countersuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, accusing them of defamation and extortion. However, Judge Liman dismissed Baldoni’s countersuit in June, leaving the original allegations under scrutiny.

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This latest incident adds an unusual twist to an already high-profile legal battle involving several celebrities and underscores the complexities surrounding legal procedures and high-stakes disputes in the entertainment industry.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/man-arrested-for-trespassing-2/story

Why Aneet Padda replaced Kiara Advani in ‘Shakti Shalini’

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**Why Aneet Padda Replaced Kiara Advani in ‘Shakti Shalini’**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 24, 2025, 01:43 PM*

Aneet Padda, who impressed audiences with her debut film *Saiyaara*, has reportedly stepped into the lead role of the upcoming Maddock film *Shakti Shalini*, replacing Kiara Advani. While Maddock Films initially denied any changes in the cast, recent reports have confirmed Padda’s official casting in the titular role, sparking considerable buzz within the industry.

**Reasons Behind the Casting Change**

According to Bollywood Hungama, the primary reason for the replacement was Kiara Advani’s packed schedule. A source close to the production revealed, “*Shakti Shalini* is a critical film in the studio’s upcoming universe, and it’s imperative for the shoot to commence by the end of 2025. Kiara’s schedule is completely booked until mid-2026. She’s one of the most in-demand actresses at the moment.”

In addition to scheduling conflicts, changes in the film’s final script also influenced the casting decision. The insider explained, “The latest version of the screenplay focuses on the coming-of-age journey of a woman in her mid-20s. When Kiara was initially approached for the role, it was pitched to her as a more mature, layered individual. With the revised narrative leaning toward a younger protagonist, it no longer aligned with Kiara’s vision for the project.”

**Maintaining a Strong Professional Relationship**

Despite the casting shift, the parting between Kiara Advani and the *Shakti Shalini* team has been reportedly amicable. The source added, “Kiara and producer Dinesh Vijan continue to share a strong professional bond. In fact, Dinesh has already committed to bringing her another script within the next month. Maddock Films has several projects in the pipeline, and there’s no doubt that Kiara will headline one of them soon.”

With Aneet Padda now taking on the lead role, fans are eager to see how *Shakti Shalini* unfolds when filming begins later this year.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/aneet-padda-replaces-kiara-advani-in-shakti-shalini/story

Petra’s hidden gems: Lesser-known sites to explore

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**Petra’s Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Sites to Explore**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 24, 2025, 02:13 pm*

Petra, the ancient city in Jordan, is renowned worldwide for its stunning architecture and rich history. While the iconic Treasury and Monastery attract most tourists, several lesser-known sites within Petra offer equally fascinating experiences. These hidden gems reveal diverse aspects of the city’s past and showcase remarkable architectural marvels. Exploring them provides a unique insight into Petra’s cultural heritage beyond the usual sights.

### 1. The Royal Tombs: A Majestic Burial Site
The Royal Tombs are an impressive collection of elaborate tombs carved directly into the rock face. Constructed for Petra’s elite, these tombs are famed for their intricate facades and grand scale. Visitors can admire the detailed carvings and learn about the ancient Nabataean burial customs. Offering a quieter atmosphere compared to busier attractions, the Royal Tombs allow for a more reflective and intimate appreciation of Petra’s history.

### 2. The Great Temple: A Monumental Complex
Often overshadowed by more famous landmarks, the Great Temple is one of Petra’s largest architectural complexes. This massive structure contains interconnected rooms and courtyards, highlighting its significance in religious and social life. Archaeological excavations have uncovered various artifacts suggesting the temple served as a center for worship and administration. Visiting the Great Temple provides a fascinating glimpse into the community life of ancient Petra.

### 3. The Byzantine Church: A Glimpse into Early Christianity
Tucked away within Petra’s vast landscape, the Byzantine Church stands as a symbol of early Christian influence in the region. The site is renowned for its stunning mosaics depicting scenes from daily life and nature, offering insight into the artistic styles of the period. Architecturally, the church differs from other Petra structures, illustrating the diverse religious traditions that once coexisted here.

### 4. Al-Beidha: The Little Petra Experience
Also known as Little Petra, Al-Beidha is located just a few kilometers from Petra’s main site. This smaller settlement boasts similar rock-cut architecture but on a more intimate scale. Visitors can explore narrow canyons lined with carved facades, providing an up-close look at Nabataean craftsmanship without the crowds of the larger site. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter, more personal encounter with Petra’s heritage.

### 5. The High Place of Sacrifice: A Spiritual Summit
Perched atop Jebel al-Madhbah, the High Place of Sacrifice offers breathtaking panoramic views over Petra’s landscape below. This sacred site was historically used for ritual offerings conducted by priests, who sought divine favor and guidance from the gods. The site’s elevated position and spiritual significance make it a powerful place to reflect on Petra’s ancient religious practices while enjoying stunning vistas.

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Exploring these hidden gems enhances your Petra experience by unveiling layers of history and culture often missed by the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient tombs, architectural grandeur, early Christian art, or spiritual traditions, Petra’s lesser-known sites await your discovery.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/petra-s-hidden-gems-lesser-known-sites-to-explore/story

Sydney film festival to screen ‘Sholay’ with original ending

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**Sydney Film Festival to Screen ‘Sholay’ with Original Ending**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 24, 2025, 01:41 PM*

The iconic Bollywood film *Sholay*, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Jaya Bachchan, is set to be screened at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS) with its original ending. This special screening follows the film’s successful presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where audiences experienced the movie as director Ramesh Sippy originally intended.

The Indian Film Festival of Sydney will take place from October 9 to 11, offering fans a unique opportunity to see this restored classic in its true form.

### Film Restoration: The Original Ending Returns

The original ending of *Sholay* features Sanjeev Kumar’s character, Thakur, personally killing the notorious villain Gabbar Singh. This conclusion was initially rejected by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), deemed too violent for release. As a result, the filmmakers shot an alternate ending in which Thakur hands Gabbar Singh over to the police.

Thanks to the recent restoration efforts, the film’s original ending has now been reinstated, allowing viewers to experience the authentic narrative as envisioned by the director.

### Festival Highlights and Audience Reception

The decision to screen *Sholay* with its original ending at IFFS has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from audiences eager to witness this piece of cinematic history.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), which is presenting the Sydney festival, commented, “To bring back the film’s original ending after all these years is to restore not just a different final scene but the full vision of its creator.”

This screening promises to be a landmark event for fans and cinephiles alike, celebrating the timeless legacy of *Sholay* in its most authentic form.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/sholay-to-screen-at-another-film-festival/story

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

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**Plea to Remove Afzal Guru’s Grave from Tihar Jail Rejected**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 24, 2025 | 02:12 PM*

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**Overview**

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of convicted terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail. The petitioners contended that maintaining the graves of these terrorists within a state-run prison was illegal and unconstitutional, urging judicial intervention to relocate the remains. They argued that such graves could encourage glorification of terrorism and lead to misuse of prison premises.

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**Judicial Stance: Decision Reserved for Competent Authorities**

The Delhi High Court observed that the matter involves sensitive decisions which were taken by the government at the time of execution. The court emphasized that reopening such issues after more than a decade is unwarranted.

It was noted that only competent authorities have the jurisdiction to decide on such matters. The court further highlighted that without specific legislation banning burials or cremations inside prison premises, judicial intervention is not justified.

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**Concerns Raised by Petitioners**

The petitioners, Vishwa Vedic Sanatan Sangh and Jitendra Singh, argued that the presence of the graves has transformed Tihar Jail into a “radical pilgrimage” site. According to them, extremist elements visit the prison to venerate these convicted terrorists, which in turn undermines national security and public order.

They asserted that this scenario sanctifies terrorism and violates the principles of secularism and the rule of law enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Additionally, they cited violations of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018.

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**Health and Security Arguments**

The plea also claimed that the burial of the bodies within prison grounds poses risks of infectious and hazardous diseases to inmates and staff.

For context, Mohammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged at Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984, for the murder of a policeman, and his body was buried on the prison premises. Mohammad Afzal Guru, a key conspirator in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack that resulted in nine deaths, was executed in February 2013 at Tihar Jail, with his body similarly buried on site.

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**Conclusion**

The Delhi High Court’s refusal to interfere leaves the graves of Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhat at Tihar Jail intact, affirming that decisions regarding their location rest with appropriate governmental authorities and legislative frameworks.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story