Monthly Archives: September 2025

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 follows a successful screening at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where audiences experienced the film as director Ramesh Sippy originally intended.

The IFFS will take place from October 9-11, promising a special cinematic experience for fans and film enthusiasts alike.

### Film Restoration: The Return of the Original Ending

The restored version of *Sholay* features the original ending, which was previously withheld due to censorship. In this ending, Sanjeev Kumar’s character, Thakur, takes justice into his own hands by killing the notorious villain Gabbar Singh.

Originally, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) rejected this ending for being too violent. As a result, the filmmakers shot an alternate conclusion where Thakur hands over Gabbar Singh to the police. Now, after extensive restoration, the film finally presents the original ending as envisioned by the director.

### Festival Highlights and Audience Reaction

The decision to screen *Sholay* with its original ending at IFFS has been met with overwhelming demand from audiences eager to see the film in its truest form.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), which is presenting the event, stated, “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 is more than just a tribute to a classic film; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the artistic integrity and storytelling as originally intended.

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*Don’t miss the chance to witness this legendary film at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney from October 9-11.*
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 Delhi High Court**

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

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 terrorists within a state-run facility was illegal and unconstitutional. They urged judicial intervention to relocate the remains, arguing that doing so would prevent the glorification of terrorism and curb the misuse of prison premises.

### Judicial Stance: Authorities to Decide on Sensitive Issues

The Delhi High Court observed that such matters are sensitive and were decided by the government at the time of the executions. The court emphasized that after more than a decade, these issues cannot be reopened. It noted that only competent authorities are empowered to make decisions regarding burials or cremations within prison premises. The court further stated that judicial intervention is unwarranted in the absence of specific legislation prohibiting such practices inside prisons.

### Petitioners’ Concerns: Graves as ‘Radical Pilgrimage’ Sites

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

They claimed this situation 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, which govern prison premises.

### Health and Security Concerns Raised

The plea also highlighted potential health risks, asserting that burials within the prison compound pose a threat of infectious and hazardous diseases to inmates and staff.

### Background

Mohammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged at Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984, after being convicted for the murder of a policeman. His body was buried on the prison grounds.

Mohammad Afzal Guru, a key conspirator in the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament that resulted in nine deaths, was executed in February 2013 at Tihar Jail. His remains were also interred within the prison premises.

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The Delhi High Court’s decision maintains the status quo, leaving the sensitive issue of terrorist graves within Tihar Jail in the hands of the authorities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Bihar: BJP slams Congress for organising CWC meeting at Patna ahead of polls

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As Congress held its first-ever Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Patna post-independence, the event drew significant attention across the political spectrum.

However, BJP leader Amit Malviya criticized the gathering, claiming that it was attended by leaders who had “insulted Bihar.” He further stated that this move marks the “final nail in the coffin” for Tejashwi Yadav’s prospects of becoming the Chief Minister.

The statement from Malviya reflects the heightened political tensions in the region as different parties vie for influence and leadership ahead of upcoming elections.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/bihar-bjp-slams-congress-for-organising-cwc-meeting-at-patna-ahead-of-assembly-polls-23595563

Sydney film festival to screen ‘Sholay’ with original ending

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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).

What makes this screening special is that *Sholay* will be shown with its original ending, offering audiences a unique viewing experience of the classic film.

Fans and film enthusiasts alike can look forward to witnessing this legendary movie in a way that has rarely been seen before.
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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The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail.

The petitioners had requested that the graves be removed from the premises, citing various concerns. However, the court did not find sufficient grounds to grant the relief sought.

This decision upholds the current status of the graves within Tihar Jail, maintaining the existing arrangements. The ruling reflects the court’s stance on matters related to prison premises and the resting places within them.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Typhoon Ragasa Storms Into Southern China And Neighbouring Countries, Millions Of People Relocated; Scary Visuals Inside

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Typhoon Ragasa is wreaking havoc across parts of China and neighboring countries, earning the distinction of one of the strongest storms of the year. Currently, the super typhoon is battering southern China, having already impacted the Philippines and Taiwan.

Authorities have launched massive evacuation efforts, relocating millions of people from coastal and low-lying areas as Ragasa continues to unleash heavy rains and powerful winds. In China’s Guangdong province alone, more than a million residents have been moved to safer locations. Schools, offices, and businesses across over ten cities have been shut down as a precautionary measure.

In Shenzhen, nearly 400,000 people were evacuated following warnings about potential storm surges and flooding. The storm has also disrupted rail and air travel, causing cancellations of hundreds of flights throughout the region.

### Devastation in Taiwan and the Philippines

Before reaching China, Ragasa caused severe damage in Taiwan’s Hualien County, where flash floods triggered by torrential rains claimed the lives of at least 14 people. In the Philippines, the typhoon struck northern Luzon, resulting in 10 fatalities and forcing thousands into temporary shelters.

Dramatic footage circulating online shows towering waves crashing onto coastal promenades, uprooted trees blocking roads, and heavy winds tearing off rooftops. Emergency teams have been deployed in all affected areas, with officials warning that the upcoming hours will be critical as the storm moves further inland.

### Scary Visuals and Official Warnings

DD News shared a chilling video capturing Typhoon Ragasa pounding the coastline, accompanied by the caption:
“Super #TyphoonRagasa, the world’s most powerful tropical cyclone this year, lashed #HongKong with powerful winds and heavy rain. The city shut down, over 700 flights were canceled, and panic buying emptied supermarket shelves as people queued for hours, fearing shops would be closed for two days.”

Meteorologists have classified Ragasa as a super typhoon, with wind speeds reaching nearly 200 km/h. This has raised serious concerns about widespread damage to infrastructure, power lines, and farmland.

Officials continue to urge residents to remain indoors and follow all safety advisories as rescue operations stay on high alert.

Stay tuned for updates as Typhoon Ragasa moves through the region.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/viral/typhoon-ragasa-storms-into-southern-china-and-neighbouring-countries-millions-of-people-relocated-scary-visuals-inside

Chennai International Book Fair 2026 Aims To Become Global Literary Hub With 100 Countries Participating

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**Chennai International Book Fair 2026 Aims to Host Publishers from 100 Countries**

*Chennai:* The Chennai International Book Fair (CIBF) is gearing up for its fourth edition in January 2026 with an ambitious target of hosting publishers and literary agents from 100 countries, positioning itself as a rising global hub for literary exchange.

**About The Fair**

The fair, the youngest international book fair in Asia, has rapidly grown in stature since its inception. In 2025, it attracted participation from 64 countries, and officials say the upcoming edition is set to expand that reach significantly.

Tamil Nadu School Education Secretary B. Chandra Mohan attributed the fair’s success to direct engagement with international associations such as the African Publishers Network, Francophone nations, and Publishers Without Borders. “This proactive outreach has helped place Chennai firmly on the global publishing map,” he noted.

To bolster these efforts, a delegation from the state’s school education department will travel to Germany in October to participate in the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest publishing marketplace. The team has already scheduled more than 30 appointments with potential co-publishers to explore translating Tamil classics and modern works published by the state textbook corporation into English and other foreign languages.

Among the key highlights planned at Frankfurt is the promotion of a comparative etymological dictionary of Tamil and Indo-European languages, aimed at attracting the attention of international publishers and European government agencies.

Discussions are also underway with UNESCO officials in Paris on reviving the *UNESCO Courier* magazine in Tamil, a publication that promotes cross-cultural dialogue and is currently brought out in six global languages.

Parallel to the fair, the Tamil Nadu government has announced an ambitious translation project. Over the next three years, the *Thirukkural* will be translated into 45 additional languages, while Tamil epics such as *Silappathikaram* and *Manimegalai* will be translated into 25 languages.

In addition, 500 Tamil books are planned for translation into English over five years, opening avenues for further adaptations into other foreign languages.

At the 2025 edition, more than 1,300 memorandums of understanding were signed to facilitate translation and exchange. Building on that momentum, CIBF 2026 hopes to cement Chennai’s role as a vibrant centre for global literary and cultural collaboration.

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*(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/education/chennai-international-book-fair-2026-aims-to-become-global-literary-hub-with-100-countries-participating

Gold & Silver Retreat from Peaks Amid Federal Reserve’s Rate Cut Uncertainty

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New Delhi: Gold and silver prices pulled back from their record highs in futures trading on Wednesday as traders booked profits at elevated levels, dragging the precious metals lower. Markets were also digesting cautious remarks from US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding the outlook for potential interest rate cuts.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold futures for October delivery dropped Rs 408, or 0.36%, to Rs 1,13,428 per 10 grams. This came after the metal hit an all-time high of Rs 1,14,179 per 10 grams on Tuesday. Similarly, the December contract for gold fell Rs 353, or 0.31%, to Rs 1,14,486 per 10 grams following a lifetime peak of Rs 1,15,139 per 10 grams.

Silver futures also eased, retreating from their recent highs amid profit-taking. The white metal futures for December delivery slipped Rs 221, or 0.16%, to Rs 1,34,841 per kilogram. The March contract for next year shed Rs 121, or 0.09%, to Rs 1,36,271 per kilogram.

Globally, bullion prices retreated from historic peaks. Gold futures for December delivery traded 0.44% lower at USD 3,799.07 per ounce, after touching a record high of USD 3,824.60 per ounce on Tuesday. Silver futures for December delivery also slipped 0.44%, settling at USD 44.41 per ounce.

Commodities market experts attributed the decline primarily to profit-taking and caution following Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks. Powell emphasized that there is no “risk-free path” for monetary policy. He warned that cutting rates too aggressively could force the Fed to reverse course if inflation continues, while holding policy restrictive for too long could harm the labor market.

On Tuesday, Powell reiterated a balanced approach to monetary easing, cautioning that cutting rates too quickly might risk leaving “the inflation job unfinished,” whereas delaying easing for too long could unnecessarily weaken the labor market. He added that current policy remains “modestly restrictive,” allowing the Fed some room to respond to changing economic conditions.

Last week, the US central bank lowered its benchmark rate by 25 basis points. Market participants are currently pricing in the likelihood of two additional reductions before the end of the year, a factor that helped cap losses for bullion.

Meanwhile, heightened geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the Middle East supported safe-haven demand, limiting the downside for gold and silver prices, analysts noted.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. No changes have been made except to the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/gold-silver-retreat-from-peaks-amid-federal-reserves-rate-cut-uncertainty

Police cracking down on drunk driving during AFL grand final weekend

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Victoria Police are cracking down on drunk and drug drivers over the AFL Grand Final long weekend.

As part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety during this significant event, authorities will increase patrols and conduct random breath and drug testing across the state.

Stay safe and avoid driving under the influence during the festivities.

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*September 24, 2025*
https://www.theage.com.au/national/police-cracking-down-on-drunk-driving-during-afl-grand-final-weekend-20250924-p5mxos.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

Annapurna Interactive’s first Tokyo Game Show Direct features three new game reveals

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Some of gaming’s biggest publishers are set to gather this weekend for the annual Tokyo Game Show. Among them is Annapurna Interactive, marking its first-ever appearance on the show floor.

Prior to the big event, the publisher held a special Annapurna Direct to unveil three brand-new titles, all of which will be playable for attendees this weekend.

**D-Topia**

First up is *D-Topia*, the latest effort from Japanese developer Marumittu Games. Formerly known as *Project D*, *D-Topia* follows a single maintenance worker who helps manage and oversee a residential facility run by artificial intelligence. Players will solve puzzles to keep the AI running smoothly and maintain the happiness of the facility’s denizens. This sometimes involves making difficult choices that impact the story.

Look for *D-Topia* to release in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch.

**People of Note**

Next is *People of Note*, from the team at Iridium Studios. Best described as a musical turn-based RPG, the game centers around Cadence, an aspiring star who can’t reach stardom alone. Players will recruit other musicians to form a killer band and face off against tough musical acts as well as the occasional fantasy creature.

*People of Note* blends musical rhythm mechanics with turn-based battles, delivering a unique RPG experience. The game is set to launch in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

**Demi and the Fractured Dream**

Finally, *Demi and the Fractured Dream* comes from the team at Yarn Owl. The story follows Demi, a cursed voidsent who awakens in the world of Somnus and is beckoned by the old gods to fulfill his destiny.

This title features classic hack-and-slash adventuring combined with environmental puzzles. Demi must rely on his sword, his abilities, and an acolyte named Mergo to repair this imaginative yet fractured world.

*Demi and the Fractured Dream* is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch in 2026.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Tokyo Game Show as Annapurna Interactive and other publishers showcase their latest and upcoming games.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146058/annapurna-interactive-direct-tokyo-game-show-reveals