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AR Rahman’s Music Documentary on Nagaland Premiered at Cannes


1. AR Rahman premiered his documentary “Headhunting to Beatboxing: A Musical Renaissance” at Cannes.
2. The event featured key figures like Abu Metha and Theja Meru alongside Rahman.
3. The documentary explores Nagaland’s musical journey from ancient traditions to modern beatboxing.


Kohima, May 21: At the 77th Cannes Film Festival in France, AR Rahman, the Oscar-winning musician, unveiled the first look and teaser of his latest feature documentary titled ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing: A Musical Renaissance’ centered on Nagaland.

The event witnessed the presence of Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), and Theja Meru, Chairman of the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), alongside Rahman.

Directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by Rahman himself, the documentary embarks on a journey through Nagaland’s musical evolution, spanning from its ancient headhunting customs to the contemporary art of beatboxing.

Rahman’s decision to showcase the documentary at Cannes underscores his commitment to showcasing the diverse cultural tapestry of India on the global stage.

The film sheds light on Nagaland’s rich heritage and its dynamic music scene, offering viewers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural landscape of the region.


Also Read: Extension of Guwahati–Bengaluru Special Train’s Frequency Announced

Through interviews, performances, and archival footage, the documentary explores how music has evolved as a powerful medium of expression in Nagaland, transcending boundaries and uniting people across generations.

It delves into the fusion of traditional Naga folk music with modern genres, highlighting the resilience and creativity of the local music community.

Abu Metha, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to showcase Nagaland’s cultural heritage at an international platform like Cannes, emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting indigenous art forms.

He underscored the role of initiatives like TaFMA in nurturing young talent and fostering a conducive environment for artistic expression in Nagaland.

The teaser of the documentary offers a tantalizing glimpse into the captivating narrative that awaits audiences.

With its visually stunning cinematography and compelling storytelling, ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing: A Musical Renaissance’ promises to be a celebration of Nagaland’s rich cultural legacy and its enduring musical spirit.

As the documentary prepares for its official release, it aims to spark conversations about the transformative power of music and its ability to bridge cultural divides.

Through Rahman’s vision and collaboration with talented filmmakers and cultural ambassadors from Nagaland, the documentary is poised to make a significant impact, amplifying the voices and stories of the region’s musical pioneers on a global scale.

Extension of Guwahati–Bengaluru Special Train’s Frequency Announced


1. Summer special train (Guwahati – SMVT Bengaluru) extended due to increased demand.
2. Train No. 06570 to run from May 29 to June 12, 2024, departing Guwahati Wednesdays at 06:00.
3. Run days, timings, stoppages, and composition remain unchanged for the extended service.


Guwahati, May 21: In response to increased demand, the periodicity of the summer special train (Guwahati – SMVT Bengaluru) has been extended with unchanged run days, timings, stoppages, and composition.

Train No. 06570 (Guwahati – SMVT Bengaluru) special, departing from Guwahati every Wednesday at 06:00 hours and arriving at SMVT Bengaluru on Friday at 10:00 hours, will now run from May 29 to June 12, 2024.

Similarly, train No.06569 (SMVT Bengaluru – Guwahati) special, leaving SMVT Bengaluru every Sunday at 00:30 hours and reaching Guwahati on Tuesday at 5:30 hours, has been extended from May 26 to June 9, 2024.

The extension aims to accommodate wait-listed passengers of other trains along these routes.


Also Read: Low-Pressure System Expected to Develop Over Bay of Bengal on Wednesday, Cyclone Formation Possible

Comprehensive details of stoppages and timings are accessible on the IRCTC website and are also disseminated through various newspapers and social media platforms of N.F. Railway.

Passengers are advised to verify the specifics before commencing their journey.

Low Pressure System Expected to Develop Over Bay of Bengal on Wednesday, Cyclone Formation Possible


1. A low-pressure area is forecasted to form over the southwest Bay of Bengal by May 22.
2. It may evolve into a cyclone, concentrating into a depression over central parts by May 24.
3. This potential cyclone could signify the onset of the pre-monsoon season.


Kolkata, May 21: A low-pressure area is expected to develop over the southwest Bay of Bengal around May 22, potentially evolving into a cyclone, officials revealed.

They anticipate it will move northeastwards initially and concentrate into a depression over central parts of the Bay of Bengal by the morning of May 24. This could mark the first cyclone of the pre-monsoon season.

“If the cyclone moves towards the Indian coast, then it will support the monsoon, but if it moves towards Myanmar, it can negatively impact the monsoon onset,” an official stated anonymously.

Roxy Mathew Koll, a climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, highlighted the conditions conducive to cyclone formation.

He mentioned warmer sea surface temperatures and the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) moving to the south of the Bay of Bengal as key factors. These conditions, coupled with persistent high sea surface temperatures, provide the necessary heat and moisture for cyclone formation.


Also Read: Training for General Elections 2024 counting officials in Gangtok district concludes smoothly in Sikkim

However, Koll noted that the progression of the monsoon towards the north could suppress vertical formation, potentially resulting in a monsoon depression instead of a cyclone.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts the monsoon onset over Kerala around May 31.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over North Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal on May 24 and 25, with squally winds expected over the central Bay of Bengal from May 23 morning.

Sea conditions are also expected to deteriorate, with rough to very rough seas over central and North Bay of Bengal from May 23 and May 24 onwards, respectively.

Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into these areas from the specified dates, and those already at sea are urged to return to the coast before May 23.

Meanwhile, heat wave conditions are expected to persist over parts of Northwest India, north Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat over the next five days.

Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, and northwest Madhya Pradesh have already experienced heat wave to severe heat wave conditions.

Warm night conditions were observed in some parts of Rajasthan, with Najafgarh in Delhi recording the highest maximum temperature at 47.8°C on Sunday, followed by Agra at 47.7°C in West Uttar Pradesh.

Training for General Elections 2024 counting officials in Gangtok district concludes smoothly in Sikkim


1. Training for General Elections 2024 officials in Gangtok successfully concluded at DAC Conference Hall.
2. 116 counting officials participated, ensuring meticulous planning for smooth counting processes.
3. Detailed sessions aimed at ensuring efficient counting marked the successful conclusion of the training.


Gangtok, May 21: The first day of the second round of training for Counting Supervisors, Counting Assistants, and Micro-Observers for the General Elections 2024 concluded successfully at the Conference Hall of DAC Gangtok.

Attended by 116 counting officials, the training sessions were meticulously designed to ensure seamless and effective counting processes.

Mr. Sonam Wongyal Lepcha, District Planning Officer Gangtok and Nodal Officer for the Training Management Team, led the training alongside State Level Master Trainers Mr. Jigme Wangchuk Bhutia and Mr. Sunny Kharel. Mr. Lepcha commenced the session with a comprehensive overview of the training curriculum, regulations for counting officials, and guidelines stipulated by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Additionally, he briefed attendees on logistical arrangements for the counting day, including scheduling and transportation.

Mr. Jigme Wangchuk Bhutia delivered an insightful PowerPoint presentation, elucidating the roles and responsibilities of staff stationed at the counting tables.

He detailed the procedures for inspecting and unsealing Control Units (CUs), addressing special cases related to CUs, and handling VVPAT slips.


Also Read: Retiring Calcutta High Court Judge Admits Ongoing RSS Membership

Through live demonstrations, Mr. Bhutia facilitated a clear understanding of Form 17C- Part 2 and Annexure-A documentation procedures concerning VVPAT slips.

Furthermore, he thoroughly explained the roles of Micro Observers and Additional Micro Observers.

Mr. Sunny Kharel focused on practical aspects, advising officials to strategize for potential challenges such as traffic congestion and security checks to maintain punctuality.

His presentation underscored the significance of maintaining vote secrecy and impartiality, delineated the layout of counting tables for EVM, Postal Ballot, and ETBP, and delineated the scrutiny and tabulation processes for postal ballots.

An interactive session conducted by Mr. Kharel provided a platform for addressing queries from the officials.

The theoretical sessions were complemented by hands-on training exercises, allowing counting officials to gain practical experience and confidence.

This immersive approach ensured that participants were thoroughly equipped for the impending counting day.

The day concluded with a heightened sense of preparedness and clarity among the counting officials, establishing a strong foundation for the efficient execution of the General Elections 2024 counting process in Gangtok district.

Retiring Calcutta High Court Judge Admits Ongoing RSS Membership


1. Retired Justice Dash praised the RSS for shaping his personality and instilling courage and patriotism.
2. He disclosed his lifelong association with the RSS, beginning in childhood.
3. Despite his RSS ties, he assured impartiality in his judicial duties over the years.


Kolkata, May 21: Justice Chitta Ranjan Dash, a Calcutta High Court judge, recently retired and made notable remarks about his longstanding association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

During his farewell speech, Justice Dash credited the RSS for significantly shaping his personality and instilling in him values such as courage, uprightness, and patriotism.

Justice Dash shared that his association with the RSS began in his childhood. Reflecting on this connection, he stated, “Today, I must unfold my true self. I owe a lot to one organization. I have been with the RSS from my childhood until I attained my youth. I have learned to be courageous, upright, have equal views for others, and above all, a sense of patriotism and commitment to the work wherever you work.”

He openly admitted, “I must admit here that I was and I am a member of the RSS.”

However, Justice Dash also emphasized that he distanced himself from the RSS upon assuming his judicial role to maintain impartiality. He assured that he had handled all cases and litigants fairly, regardless of their political affiliations.

“I have distanced myself from the organization (RSS) for about 37 years due to the work I undertook. I never used the membership of my organization for any advancement of my career, because that is against our principle,” he explained.

Justice Dash further clarified his approach to justice, saying, “I have treated everybody at par, be it a Communist person, be it a BJP or Congress or even TMC (Trinamool Congress) person. I do not have any bias against anybody. I do not have any bias against any political personality. All were equal before me. I tried to dispense justice on two principles: one is empathy and second is law can be bent to do justice, but justice cannot be bent to suit the law.”


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma: 2024 Will End Leftist and Marxist Dominance in West Bengal

Born in Odisha, Justice Dash began his legal career by enrolling as an advocate in 1986.

He entered the Odisha judicial service in 1999, serving as an Additional District and Sessions Judge in various parts of the state. His career progressed as he was appointed as Registrar (Administration) of the Orissa High Court.

Justice Dash was elevated to the position of an additional judge of the Orissa High Court on October 10, 2009. He later transferred to the Calcutta High Court on June 20, 2022.

Throughout his judicial career, Justice Dash remained committed to his principles, ensuring that his decisions were guided by fairness and a deep sense of justice.

In his retirement, Justice Dash’s candid revelations about his RSS membership and his commitment to judicial impartiality highlight the complex interplay between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities.

His tenure serves as a testament to his dedication to upholding the law and delivering justice without prejudice.

Himanta Biswa Sarma: 2024 Will End Leftist and Marxist Dominance in West Bengal


1. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confidently declared the BJP would secure a decisive victory.
2. He stated this would end decades of Leftist and Marxist influence.
3. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the 2024 elections as a turning point for the region.


Kolkata, May 21: During a roadshow in Jadavpur, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made bold statements, asserting that the upcoming 2024 elections would mark the end of Leftist dominance in the region, which has persisted since 1952.

Sarma confidently declared that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would secure a decisive victory, effectively ending decades of influence by Leftists and Marxists.

Addressing the crowd, Sarma sarcastically referenced the enduring influence of Congress-Left and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Jadavpur, criticizing the perpetuation of an ecosystem that he claimed incentivizes ‘Urban Naxals.’

Also Read: Sikkim Imposes Monsoon Ban on New Earth Excavation to Avert Landslides

He expressed confidence that the BJP’s rise to power would usher in a new era for the region, free from the ideological constraints of the past.

Earlier, during a public rally in Kolkata, Sarma launched a scathing critique of West Bengal’s governance under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

He questioned the state’s current trajectory, contrasting its present condition with its rich historical and cultural legacy.

“What have you done to West Bengal?” Sarma queried, lamenting the state’s decline from its once-proud stature as a bastion of culture and intellect.

He reminisced about iconic landmarks such as the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum and the Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir, expressing concern that they no longer epitomize the essence of Bengal.

Highlighting the distressing prominence of “Sandeshkhali” in Google’s search trends, Sarma cautioned against allowing the region’s notoriety to define West Bengal.

He argued that the Dakshineswar Kali Temple should be the identity of West Bengal, not the negative associations currently gaining attention.

Sarma urged Mamata Banerjee to take decisive action to preserve the state’s cultural heritage and restore its former glory.

Sarma’s remarks reflect the BJP’s broader strategy to challenge the entrenched political powers in West Bengal.

The party aims to capitalize on public dissatisfaction with the current state administration, emphasizing a return to cultural and intellectual prominence. By invoking historical and cultural icons, Sarma seeks to resonate with voters who yearn for a revival of Bengal’s past grandeur.

The roadshow in Jadavpur and the rally in Kolkata are part of the BJP’s efforts to galvanize support and present itself as the viable alternative to the Left and TMC dominance.

Sarma’s confident assertions and sharp critiques are designed to rally the BJP base and attract undecided voters who are disillusioned with the status quo.

As the 2024 elections approach, the BJP’s campaign in West Bengal is likely to intensify, with leaders like Himanta Biswa Sarma at the forefront, challenging the existing political narrative and promising a new direction for the state.

Whether this strategy will resonate with the electorate and lead to the end of Leftist and Marxist dominance remains to be seen, but Sarma’s bold proclamations have certainly set the stage for a contentious and closely watched electoral battle.

Sikkim Imposes Monsoon Ban on New Earth Excavation to Avert Landslides


1. Gangtok bans new earth excavation from June 1 to September 30, 2024.
2. Proactive measure aims to mitigate landslide risk during monsoon season.
3. District Collector Tushar G Nikhare issued the prohibition order.


Gangtok, May 20: To preemptively address the risk of landslides during the imminent monsoon season, Gangtok is taking proactive steps. District Collector Tushar G Nikhare has enacted a prohibition on new earth excavation activities in the district from June 1 to September 30, 2024.

Under Section 30 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, this directive aims to curtail activities that could exacerbate the vulnerability of areas prone to landslides, especially as monsoon rains have already begun in the North East, including Sikkim.

The order, issued by the District Collector and Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority, Gangtok District, explicitly prohibits new earth excavation works during the monsoon period, emphasizing the need to prioritize safety.


Also Read: Butterfly Extravaganza: 44 Species Spotted in Lachung Valley, Sikkim

While the order restricts new excavation endeavors, it allows activities focused on protection, restoration, and maintenance to continue uninterrupted.

This decision underscores the commitment to safeguarding lives and properties in the district, recognizing the significant threat posed by landslides during the monsoon.

By implementing such preventive measures, Gangtok aims to minimize potential damages and ensure the well-being of its residents, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies in mitigating natural disaster risks.

Butterfly Extravaganza: 44 Species Spotted in Lachung Valley, Sikkim


1. Sikkim’s Lachung Valley expedition reveals 44 butterfly species, showcasing diverse altitudes.
2. The Thamblyok-BSONS team leads an expedition spanning altitudes from 1663 to 4276 meters.
3. Discovery underscores the rich biodiversity and ecological importance of the Himalayan region.


Gangtok, May 20: A recent expedition in Sikkim’s Lachung Valley, organized by the Wiki Love Butterfly (WLB) project in collaboration with local partners, unveiled the presence of 44 butterfly species across diverse altitudes, offering a captivating insight into the region’s biodiversity, as reported by media.

Led by the Thamblyok-BSONS team, the expedition journeyed through altitudes ranging from 1663 meters in the Chungthang belt to 4276 meters in the valleys of Yumthang, Damong, Katao, and Chungthang.

Among the discoveries were rare species like Ladakhi and Swallowtail, enhancing the natural allure of the area. “It’s awe-inspiring to witness the diverse sizes, colors, and patterns of these butterflies,” expressed the group, emphasizing the importance of involving youth in butterfly documentation.

The inaugural expedition for Thamblyok-BSONS in Lachung signifies a significant stride in ongoing endeavors to document and conserve North Sikkim’s butterfly populations.

By meticulously recording species data, the group not only contributes to scientific comprehension but also fosters eco-tourism and environmental education in the region.


Also Read: List of States Affected by the Latest COVID Variant: Cases and Symptoms Overview

“Lachung emerges as a prime destination for butterfly enthusiasts, offering not only visual delights but also insights into the delicate ecosystems of the Himalayas,” remarked the Thamblyok-BSONS team.

The expedition also shed light on intriguing aspects of butterfly behavior, including their attraction to flowering fields and their unique interactions around livestock sheds.

Girl trafficked from Lakhimpur rescued in Arunachal Pradesh: Assam authorities


1. Lakhimpur Police successfully rescued an abducted girl trafficked into Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Superintendent of Police Aparna Natarajan confirmed the rescue of the eleven-year-old.
3. The girl was found in the Kurung Kumey district, bordering China.


Lakhimpur, May 20: Lakhimpur Police successfully rescued a young girl who had been abducted and trafficked into Arunachal Pradesh.

Superintendent of Police Aparna Natarajan confirmed the rescue, stating that the eleven-year-old girl was found in the Kurung Kumey district, along the China border.

Additionally, two abductors involved in selling her were apprehended, along with the vehicle used in the abduction.

The incident unfolded on May 4 when the 11-year-old girl, accompanied by her grandmother, was en route to Lakhimpur Medical College and Hospital from Bhimpora in Bogeenadi. While waiting for a bus, they were coerced into a car.

Instead of heading to their intended destination, they were taken to Upper Jumi in Arunachal Pradesh.


Also Read: List of States Affected by the Latest COVID Variant: Cases and Symptoms Overview

The grandmother was forcefully removed from the vehicle near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary, after which the vehicle proceeded to Kimin with the girl.

Prompted by the grandmother’s complaint, Lakhimpur Police initiated a rescue operation, leading to the successful retrieval of the abducted girl.

SP Natarajan also disclosed that in separate incidents, a 14-year-old girl reported missing from Narayanpur in 2023 and an eight-year-old boy missing since 2021 from Silanibari were also rescued by Lakhimpur Police, from Daporijo and Naharlagan, respectively.

List of States Affected by the Latest COVID Variant: Cases and Symptoms Overview


1. KP.2, an offshoot of Omicron, detected in genomic sequencing, is gradually replacing the JN.1 variant.
2. Maharashtra reports the highest share of KP.2 cases, signaling a slight increase in infections across India.
3. Health officials note that KP.2 primarily induces mild symptoms, offering reassurance amid concerns.


New Delhi, May 20: The emergence of the KP.2 variant of Covid-19, identified in 36 positive cases, has sparked concern among health officials, signaling a potential shift in the viral landscape.

Originating as a derivative of the Omicron strain, KP.2 has rapidly gained prominence, accounting for a significant portion of recent genomic sequencing results and replacing its predecessor, the JN.1 variant, in about 50% of samples.

Despite the uptick in cases associated with KP.2, health authorities emphasize that the variant primarily induces mild symptoms, offering reassurance amidst growing apprehension.

The 36 confirmed KP.2 cases represent a fraction of the 286 reported nationwide, with Maharashtra reporting the highest incidence.

Samples analyzed at the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, predominantly hail from Kolkata, underscoring the variant’s prevalence in the region.


Also Read: West Bengal Records 15% Turnout by 9 AM Amid Complaints in All 7 Phase 5 Lok Sabha Seats

Experts attribute KP.2’s emergence to convergent evolution within the FLiRT group of SARS-CoV2 variants, characterizing its ability to evade immunity while causing mild illness.

While concerns about KP.2’s transmission rate persist, state officials downplay the significance of current case numbers, citing only a marginal increase and a limited impact on hospitalizations.

Infectious diseases specialist Yogiraj Ray emphasizes the normalcy of viral strain evolution, urging caution against undue alarm absent a surge in severe infections.

Despite the potential for heightened transmission during election season, testing rates remain low due to the mild nature of KP.2 symptoms.

Immunologist Dipyaman Ganguly echoes the sentiment, asserting that KP.2 has yet to exhibit widespread dissemination or severe disease outcomes, advocating for a measured response rather than immediate alarm.

In summary, while the emergence of the KP.2 variant warrants vigilance, its predominance and impact remain relatively contained, emphasizing the importance of ongoing surveillance and proactive measures to mitigate transmission risks.

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