Jr. NTR exits Dadasaheb Phalke biopic; here’s what we know

**Jr. NTR Exits Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic: What We Know So Far**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 9, 2025, 05:16 PM*

Telugu superstar Jr. NTR has reportedly opted out of the much-anticipated Hindi-Telugu biopic on Dadasaheb Phalke, widely regarded as the father of Indian cinema. According to reports from Deccan Chronicle, the actor is now focusing on his Telugu film career alongside Prashanth Neel’s upcoming project, *Dragon*.

### Why Did Jr. NTR Exit?

A source close to the project revealed multiple reasons behind Jr. NTR’s decision. Firstly, the actor is currently reluctant to portray a real-life personality, especially a legendary figure from the past.

The source told Deccan Chronicle, “At the moment, NTR doesn’t want to play a real-life character, and that too a legend from the past.”

Secondly, the biopic was set to be directed by S.S. Rajamouli’s son, Karthik Rajamouli, rather than Rajamouli himself, which may have influenced his choice.

Most importantly, Aamir Khan is also working on a separate Dadasaheb Phalke biopic directed by Rajkumar Hirani. The source added, “Doing another of the same serves no purpose.”

### SS Rajamouli’s Biopic Plans

Despite Jr. NTR’s exit and objections raised by Phalke’s grandson, Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, director S.S. Rajamouli is reportedly moving ahead with the biopic project.

Rumors had circulated that actor Prabhas might be approached to play the lead role, but these speculations have been dismissed by sources close to the film.

In related news, there was recent speculation that Aamir Khan requested director Rajkumar Hirani to rewrite his version of the Phalke biopic. However, reports now suggest that the project is proceeding as originally planned.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Dadasaheb Phalke biopic and the casting developments as the project progresses.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jr-ntr-exits-dadasaheb-phalke-biopic/story

Jr. NTR exits Dadasaheb Phalke biopic; here’s what we know

**Jr. NTR Exits Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic: What We Know So Far**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 9, 2025, 5:16 PM*

Telugu superstar Jr. NTR has reportedly stepped away from the much-anticipated Hindi-Telugu biopic on Dadasaheb Phalke, widely regarded as the father of Indian cinema. According to the Deccan Chronicle, the actor has chosen to focus on his Telugu film career and his role in Prashanth Neel’s upcoming film *Dragon*.

### Reasons Behind Jr. NTR’s Decision

A source close to the project revealed multiple factors that influenced Jr. NTR’s exit. Foremost, the actor is currently reluctant to portray a real-life figure, especially a legendary personality from the past. The source told Deccan Chronicle:

> “Firstly, at the moment NTR doesn’t want to play a real-life character, and that too a legend from the past. Secondly, the Phalke biopic was to be directed not by Rajamouli but by his son Karthik. Thirdly and most importantly, Aamir Khan is also working on a Dadasaheb Phalke biopic directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Doing another of the same serves no purpose.”

### SS Rajamouli’s Biopic Plans

Despite Jr. NTR’s departure and objections raised by Dadasaheb Phalke’s grandson Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, ace director SS Rajamouli is proceeding full steam ahead with the biopic project.

There were rumors that Prabhas had been considered for the lead role after NTR’s exit, but those reports have since been clarified and dismissed.

### Updates on Aamir Khan’s Biopic

Meanwhile, speculation had surfaced that Aamir Khan had requested director Rajkumar Hirani to rewrite his version of the Phalke biopic. However, recent reports confirm that Khan’s project is continuing as originally planned.

The race to bring Dadasaheb Phalke’s inspiring story to the big screen continues, with two major Hindi-Telugu productions in the pipeline. Fans eagerly await further announcements regarding casting and production details.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jr-ntr-exits-dadasaheb-phalke-biopic/story

BTS’s Taehyung sends ‘Hirono’ doll keychain flying off shelves

**BTS’s Taehyung Sends ‘Hirono’ Doll Keychain Flying Off Shelves**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 8, 2025, 4:04 PM*

BTS member Kim Taehyung, popularly known as V, has once again demonstrated his massive global influence. On October 4, Taehyung was spotted at Incheon International Airport, en route to Paris Fashion Week. While his fashion ensemble caught many eyes, it was the Hirono doll keychain hanging from his Celine bag that truly stole the spotlight—sparking an immediate sell-out of the collectible.

**The Instant Sell-Out Phenomenon**

The plush toy, officially named the *Hirono Living Wild Fight For Joy* edition, is a collaboration between Chinese artist Lang and the well-known designer toy brand Pop Mart. Within just 24 hours of Taehyung being seen with it, more than 500 units flew off the shelves from Pop Mart’s official stores in China, marking a record-breaking sell-out.

The adorable character is dressed in a brown suede bear suit paired with denim overalls, holding a small torch symbolizing courage and hope—a design that resonates with fans worldwide.

**Collector Trends and Fan Reactions**

Prior to Taehyung’s airport appearance, the Hirono doll was already gaining traction among art toy collectors. However, the BTS star’s endorsement propelled it to global sensation status overnight. Fans quickly dubbed Hirono “the new Labubu,” referencing Pop Mart’s previous viral toy line.

On social media, admirers shared their excitement with remarks like, “Labubu walked so Hirono could run,” while others praised Taehyung’s trendsetting influence as “Taehyung’s Midas touch in action!”

As always, Taehyung proves that his unique style and choices have the power to shape trends and captivate fans around the globe—turning simple collectibles into coveted must-haves almost instantly.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bts-s-v-ignites-worldwide-craze-for-hirono-doll/story

How to make mushroom-honey soup at home

**How to Make Mushroom-Honey Soup at Home**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 08, 2025 | 05:26 pm*

**What’s the Story?**
Mushroom-honey soup is a delicious vegetarian dish that beautifully combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the natural sweetness of honey. This simple recipe requires only a few ingredients and can be prepared quickly, making it perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious yet satisfying meal. Here’s how you can make this delightful soup right at home.

### Tip 1: Choosing the Right Mushrooms
Selecting the right mushrooms is key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your soup. Fresh button or cremini mushrooms are ideal choices as they offer a mild yet rich taste that complements honey well. When purchasing, make sure the mushrooms are firm and free from blemishes. Clean them gently using a damp cloth to remove any dirt before slicing.

### Tip 2: Preparing Ingredients Efficiently
To save time during cooking, prepare all your ingredients in advance. You will need:
– Sliced mushrooms
– Vegetable broth
– Honey
– Garlic
– Onions
– Olive oil

Finely chop the garlic and onions so they cook quickly and evenly. Measure out the honey and broth beforehand to ensure a smooth, uninterrupted cooking process.

### Tip 3: Cooking Techniques for Best Results
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they turn translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they release their moisture. Pour in the vegetable broth and allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Finally, stir in the honey gradually, tasting as you go, to adjust the sweetness to your preference.

### Tip 4: Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
Serve your mushroom-honey soup hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add an aromatic touch. For added texture and freshness, pair the soup with a simple green salad on the side.

Enjoy your homemade mushroom-honey soup — a perfect blend of savory and sweet that’s both comforting and wholesome!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-to-prepare-mushroom-honey-soup/story

‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: HC on Wayanad loan relief

**‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: Kerala High Court on Wayanad Loan Relief**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 08, 2025 04:44 pm*

The Kerala High Court has strongly criticized the central government for its refusal to waive loans of those affected by the devastating Wayanad landslides. The court declared that the Union government had “failed the people of Kerala,” emphasizing that the state “does not need the Centre’s charity.”

### Strong Judicial Critique of the Centre’s Stance

A Division Bench comprising Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Jobin Sebastian expressed sharp disapproval of the Centre’s affidavit, which claimed that there was no legal provision to waive loans for disaster-affected individuals.

“Please tell the Union Government it has failed the people of Kerala,” the court remarked sternly to government counsel, dismissing the Centre’s position as mere “bureaucratic babble.” The judges stressed, “It is not about whether the Union can act, but whether they are willing to act.”

### Highlighting Funding Disparities

The court further pointed out that while the Centre had sanctioned relief funds for Assam and Gujarat floods — even though those floods were not classified as severe — financial assistance for Wayanad’s victims was withheld.

While expressing respect for the Constitution and the principle of separation of powers, the judges made it clear they would no longer issue directions to the Union government. Justice Nambiar remarked, “We don’t need the Union’s charity,” and ordered banks to immediately halt loan recovery from the affected persons.

### Next Steps in Legal Proceedings

The bench also announced that banks would be formally impleaded in the case and asked to clarify whether they intended to waive the loans fully or partially. “Provide the names of the banks. We will issue notice to them and implead them. Until they respond, we will direct a stay on recovery actions,” the court declared.

The matter is set to be heard again in two weeks.

### Background

The High Court’s suo motu case was initiated following catastrophic landslides that struck Wayanad district on July 30, 2024. The disaster claimed dozens of lives and displaced hundreds of residents, leaving many struggling to recover financially and emotionally.

*This judgment highlights ongoing tensions between the state and central governments over disaster relief and loan waiver policies, reflecting broader challenges in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities in India.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/we-don-t-need-your-charity-kerala-hc-to-centre/story

Start your day right: 5 fennel seed recipes

**Start Your Day Right: 5 Fennel Seed Recipes**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 08, 2025, 03:49 PM*

Fennel seeds are a staple in many kitchens, prized for their unique flavor and digestive benefits. These small seeds can be incorporated into a variety of breakfast recipes, giving you a refreshing and healthy start to your day. From smoothies to porridge, fennel seeds add both taste and nutrition to your morning meals. Here are five creative ways to include fennel seeds in your breakfast routine.

### 1. Fennel Seed Smoothie Delight
Kickstart your day with a burst of flavor by making a fennel seed smoothie. Soak one teaspoon of fennel seeds overnight, then blend them with one banana, half a cup of yogurt, and a handful of spinach. The result is a creamy, nutrient-rich drink that balances the natural sweetness of banana with the subtle, anise-like taste of fennel. This smoothie is refreshing and also aids digestion.

### 2. Fennel Seed Infused Oatmeal
Enjoy a warm and comforting breakfast by infusing oatmeal with fennel seeds. Add one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds to half a cup of oats as you cook them in water or milk. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, and top with fresh fruits such as berries or sliced apples for extra texture and flavor. This wholesome meal is both nutritious and satisfying.

### 3. Fennel Seed Yogurt Parfait
For a quick and visually appealing breakfast, try a fennel seed yogurt parfait. Layer Greek yogurt with granola, fresh fruit, and one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds in a glass or bowl. The crunchy granola and juicy fruit complement the aromatic fennel notes perfectly, making it an ideal pick-me-up for busy mornings.

### 4. Fennel Seed Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is versatile and easy to prepare. Mix two tablespoons of chia seeds with water or milk and let it sit overnight until it thickens. Before serving, stir in one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds and top with nuts or dried fruits for added crunch. This pudding offers a nutritious, flavorful start to your day.

### 5. Fennel Seed Granola Bars
For those who prefer grab-and-go breakfasts, homemade granola bars with fennel seeds are perfect. Combine oats, nuts, honey, dried fruits, and half a teaspoon of ground fennel per bar. Bake until golden brown, then cool and store in an airtight container. These bars are a convenient and healthy option for busy mornings.

Incorporating fennel seeds into your breakfast routine not only enhances flavor but also promotes digestion and overall wellness. Try these five recipes to start your day right with the goodness of fennel!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/start-your-day-with-fennel-seeds-5-recipes/story

‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: HC on Wayanad loan relief

**‘Centre has failed Kerala people’: High Court on Wayanad Loan Relief**

*By Snehil Singh | October 8, 2025, 4:44 PM*

The Kerala High Court has strongly criticized the central government for its refusal to waive loans of those affected by the devastating landslides in Wayanad. The Division Bench, comprising Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Jobin Sebastian, stated that the Union government had “failed the people of Kerala” and emphasized that the state “does not need the Centre’s charity.”

### Court’s Legal Critique: ‘Bureaucratic Babble’

The court was highly critical of the Centre’s affidavit, which argued that there was no legal provision allowing the waiver of loans for disaster-affected individuals. Addressing government counsel, the judges remarked, “Please tell the Union Government it has failed the people of Kerala,” dismissing the Centre’s stance as mere “bureaucratic babble.”

They clarified, “It is not about whether the Union can act, but whether they are willing to act.”

### Funding Disparity Highlighted

Highlighting a funding disparity, the court noted that the Centre had sanctioned relief funds for Assam and Gujarat floods, although these were not classified as severe disasters. While expressing respect for the Constitution and the separation of powers, the judges clearly stated they would no longer issue directions to the Union government.

“We don’t need the Union’s charity,” Justice Nambiar asserted, while simultaneously ordering banks to immediately stop all loan recovery proceedings against the affected persons.

### Legal Proceedings and Bank Involvement

The bench announced that banks would be impleaded in the case and directed them to clarify whether they planned to waive loans, either fully or partially. “Provide the names of the banks. We will issue notices and implead them. Until we receive their responses, we direct a stay on all recovery actions,” the court said.

The matter is scheduled to be heard again in two weeks.

### Background

This suo motu case was initiated by the Kerala High Court after massive landslides struck Wayanad on July 30, 2024, resulting in dozens of deaths and displacing hundreds of residents.

*Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/we-don-t-need-your-charity-kerala-hc-to-centre/story

Why J&J has been fined $966M in the US

**Why J&J Has Been Fined $966M in the US**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 08, 2025, 05:15 PM*

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has been ordered by a Los Angeles jury to pay $966 million to the family of a woman who died from mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. This ruling follows the jury’s finding that the company’s talc products were linked to cancer.

### Background of the Case
The lawsuit was filed by the family of Mae Moore, an 88-year-old California resident who passed away in 2021. The family initiated the case against J&J in the same year, alleging that the company’s talc products contributed to her illness.

### Verdict Details
The jury awarded $16 million in compensatory damages and an astounding $950 million in punitive damages against J&J. In response, Erik Haas, J&J’s global vice president of litigation, announced the company’s intention to appeal the decision. He described the verdict as “egregious and unconstitutional” and criticized the plaintiff lawyers for relying on what he called “junk science” that should not have been admitted in court.

### Product Safety and Company Response
Despite the verdict, J&J maintains that its talc-based products are safe, contain no asbestos, and do not cause cancer. The company discontinued sales of talc-based baby powder in the United States in 2020, transitioning to a cornstarch-based alternative. It is important to note that mesothelioma has been medically linked to asbestos exposure.

Trey Branham, attorney for Moore’s family, expressed hope that this ruling will finally hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for what he termed “senseless deaths.”

### Ongoing Litigation
Johnson & Johnson currently faces over 67,000 lawsuits alleging cancer caused by its baby powder and other talc products. While the majority of these claims relate to ovarian cancer, mesothelioma cases form a smaller portion of the litigation.

The company has attempted to resolve the mass litigation by filing for bankruptcy protection, but three such proposals have been rejected by federal courts.

### Settlement and Trial Landscape
Though J&J has settled some mesothelioma claims, it has yet to achieve a nationwide settlement agreement. Consequently, many mesothelioma lawsuits have proceeded to trial in various state courts over recent months.

In the past year alone, J&J has faced several significant verdicts related to mesothelioma, with Monday’s ruling representing one of the largest monetary penalties to date. The company has, however, successfully reduced some awards on appeal, including a $260 million verdict overturned by a state judge in Oregon.

This recent verdict underscores the ongoing legal challenges Johnson & Johnson faces concerning its talc products and the serious claims raised by affected consumers and their families. The company’s appeal process will be closely watched as these cases continue to unfold.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/j-j-hit-with-966m-verdict-in-talc-cancer-trial/story

Paytm launches AI Soundbox for small businesses: How it works

**Paytm Launches AI Soundbox for Small Businesses: How It Works**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 08:03 PM*

Paytm has introduced the AI Soundbox, a revolutionary device designed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) streamline their daily operations and payments more efficiently. The new product was unveiled at the Global Fintech Festival 2025, marking a significant step forward in bringing advanced technology to India’s business landscape.

### What Is the AI Soundbox?
The AI Soundbox is an enhanced version of Paytm’s popular payment Soundbox series. What sets this device apart is its conversational AI capability, allowing merchants to interact in 11 Indian languages. This feature makes business transactions and management more accessible for a diverse range of users across the country.

### Enhanced Features for Business Intelligence
Beyond handling payments, the AI assistant embedded in the Soundbox can answer queries related to payments, sales trends, and overall business performance. Paytm describes the device as a “business intelligence assistant,” providing real-time insights that help merchants make informed decisions without needing complex software.

The Android-based device features dual screens—one displays payment updates, while the other facilitates easy interaction with the AI assistant. It supports dynamic QR codes alongside tap and insert card transactions, ensuring versatile payment options for customers.

### Transforming Small Businesses with AI
The AI Soundbox is aimed at empowering India’s extensive network of small businesses, from local kirana stores to cafes and retail chains. By integrating artificial intelligence into everyday business interactions, Paytm hopes to simplify operations and enhance business intelligence at the grassroots level.

Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder and CEO of Paytm, highlighted that this launch signals a new era of intelligent devices tailored for businesses across India.

### Reliable Connectivity for Smooth Operations
Equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, the AI Soundbox assures stable performance for indoor settings such as restaurants and supermarkets. Additionally, 4G support is built-in to maintain seamless transaction processing in outdoor or high-traffic areas.

With this launch, Paytm continues to innovate in the fintech space by providing accessible and smart technology solutions that cater specifically to the needs of India’s small and medium enterprises.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/paytm-introduces-ai-soundbox-for-smes-here-s-what-it-offers/story

Timothée Chalamet’s ‘Marty Supreme’: Cast, crew, release date

**Timothée Chalamet’s ‘Marty Supreme’: Cast, Crew, and Release Details**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 7, 2025, 5:11 PM*

**World Premiere at New York Film Festival**

Timothée Chalamet’s highly anticipated film *Marty Supreme* had its world premiere at the New York Film Festival (NYFF) on Monday night (US time). The A24 production, directed by Josh Safdie, was a surprise addition to the festival’s lineup.

In an unexpected move, Safdie announced the screening after the audience had settled for a secret showing, revealing that he had finished editing the film just the day before at 2:00 AM.

**Film Introduction and Setting**

Chalamet joined Safdie on stage to introduce the film. The actor shared a personal connection to the venue, revealing he attended high school near Alice Tully Hall, where the premiere took place. “It’s f***ing awesome,” Chalamet remarked about debuting the film at NYFF.

*Marty Supreme* was shot across various locations in New York City, adding an authentic local vibe to the story.

**Star-Studded Cast**

The film features an impressive ensemble cast including Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Kevin O’Leary, Tyler Okonma, Abel Ferrara, and Fran Drescher alongside Chalamet.

**Production Insights**

With a reported budget of $70 million, *Marty Supreme* stands as A24’s most expensive film to date. The screenplay was co-written by director Josh Safdie and Ronald Bronstein, continuing the creative partnership seen in their previous works.

The premiere of *Marty Supreme* arrives while another A24 film, *The Smashing Machine* — directed by Safdie’s brother Benny — faces challenges at the box office despite critical acclaim.

**Plot Overview**

Chalamet stars as an aspiring ping-pong champion in *Marty Supreme*. Gwyneth Paltrow plays the wife of a rival professional athlete, who becomes involved in an affair with Chalamet’s character.

Paltrow hinted at the film’s bold themes, teasing, “I mean, we have a lot of sex in this movie. There’s a lot. A lot.”

**About the Safdie Brothers**

Josh and Benny Safdie have made a name for themselves with intense, character-driven stories in films like *Good Time* and *Uncut Gems*. *Marty Supreme* marks another ambitious project from Josh Safdie, showcasing his signature style in a new and compelling narrative.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Marty Supreme* as it builds momentum following its NYFF debut.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/timothee-chalamet-s-marty-supreme/story