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Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Movie Hari Hara Veera Mallu – Part 1 Review: Bombastic, not fantastic
Krish Jagarlamudi . The much-delayed and hyped multi-lingual movie Hari Hara Veeramallu has arrived at theaters. The movie's release was put off by five years due to various reasons including the pandemic. Its shooting began under the guidance of directorbut he had to exit. Later, Jyothi Krishna, the son of well-known producer AM Rathnam, took the responsibility of completing the shooting. The result: The tonal and dramatic disparities are evident between the pre and post-intermissions. The failure of the directors to translate the potential of the core premise of the movie to the screen is its plot revolves around a king entrusting a well-known fugitive with a task to reclaim a priceless diamond. The movie begins with Veera Mallu attacking officers from the British East India Company and recovering diamonds from them. Impressed by Veera Mallu's skills in stealing diamonds, a king (Sachin Khedekar), assigns him to steal diamonds that are being sent to Golconda Nawab. Veera Mallu meets Panchami (Nidhi Agerwal), a devadasi, and falls in love with her. Panchami pleads with Veera Mallu to save her from the king, who wants to keep her as his mistress. You have to watch the movie to know what happens to Veera Mallu and whether or he reaches Golconda or far as the performances of actors are concerned, Pawan Kalyan has worked hard but fails to meet the expectations of the audiences, including his hardcore fans. He looks good in action scenes but too much glorification and computer graphics have played spoilsport. Action scenes, especially those of the hero and heroine jumping from one building to another and flying like kites to escape from enemies, are too far-fetched. It is not clear what the director was hoping to achieve with such scenes. Nidhi Agerwal looks good, but has no chance to showcase her acting skills. Bobby Deol, as Aurangzeb, is convincing. Sathyaraj, Nassar, Subbaraju, Raghu Babu give good by MM Keeravani is not up to the mark. Art director Thota Tharani has done a commendable job. If you have nothing much to do, you can watch this film.
The National
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Gaza war crimes echo in new play about Britain's brutality in India
Niall Moorjani's Kanpur: 1857 heads to the Edinburgh Fringe later this week and tells the story of the Britain Empire's brutal reprisal after the Indian Rebellion, known in India as the First War of Independence. After a mutiny in Meerut on May 10, 1857, the revolt spread across parts of the country under the rule of the British East India Company. The empire's retaliation was merciless: 6000 British were killed, but it is believed the subsequent crackdown resulted in the deaths of around 800,000 Indians. Moorjani, who was born in Arbroath and raised in Dundee, told the Sunday National they wanted to speak up about the genocide in [[Gaza]] and saw the similarities in Britain's brutal repression of the rebellion. But it was a chance encounter at Edinburgh Castle that crystallised their vision. Outside the medieval fort, there is a monument featuring an elephant, commemorating Scottish soldiers killed in the campaign. They said: 'It stands outside our castle, probably our most famous landmark; there's this monument which has an elephant on it and if you don't know about it, you don't know. I had no idea until I stumbled across it and I was like, 'Why is there an elephant there?'' Moorjani said they were struck by 'the parallels of a colonial oppressor collectively punishing a group of people on the back of violent resistance', adding: 'I think that deepening of historical understanding and the fact that this isn't new, this is a really old story; all of those things combined together to make me want to write something and make something about it.' Moorjani said they'd learnt the story of the Indian Rebellion in university and it 'got under my skin in a really deep way'. They were also moved by the Black Lives Matter movement which reached a fever pitch after the murder of George Floyd – a black man murdered by a white police officer in 2020 – which forced them to reckon with the 'racism I grew up with and our role as Scots in colonial history that we're not very good at acknowledging or educating ourselves about', Moorjani said. Moorjani said that their work as a storyteller and writer gave them the tools to 'further raise awareness of British-Indian history, especially from a Scottish perspective'. Their play, co-directed with Jonathan Oldfield, features an Indian rebel strapped to a cannon who is forced to answer for the 'crimes of Kanpur' – an important British garrison at the time of the time of the rebellion which fell to the Indians only to be retaken by imperial forces. Moorjani said this conceit allowed them to get inside the head of the British forces, helping to shine a light on the imperial mindset. 'This character really fascinated me, this guy who genuinely believes doing something right and doing something good,' they said. 'He genuinely believes he's on the right side of history and putting across all of these colonial views – what an amazing way to satirise and interrogate, in a reverse, meta sense, colonial theory and the ideas that underpin colonial hierarchy.' Kanpur: 1857 runs from July 30 to August 24 – excluding August 12 and 13 – at the Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh at 3.40pm. For more information, including ticket prices, visit
Time of India
17-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
She was Queen Victoria's goddaughter. At 16, forgot her language. Meet the Indian princess adopted by British royalty but never accepted
At the age of 11, she went to England and became the goddaughter of Queen Victoria. However, Princess Gouramma 's story was far from being a fairy tale. Today, it remains a cautionary tale about the limits of cultural assimilation and how immigration can often demand a huge price for racial minorities. A Royal Childhood Shattered By Colonial Conquest Princess Gouramma was born into Indian royalty, the cherished daughter of Chikka Virarajendra, the last sovereign ruler of the Kodagu kingdom, more commonly known as Coorg. However, her privileged beginnings were soon interrupted by a pivotal historical conflict. On April 24, 1834 CE, the Coorg War ended in defeat for her father, resulting in his dethronement by the British East India Company. Acting under the directives of Army officer James Stuart Fraser, the British forces formally annexed Coorg into their growing dominion, incorporating the territory into British India. The defeated monarch was relocated as a political detainee to Benaras, where he spent approximately 14 years in enforced exile. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Voyage to an Alien World In 1852, the deposed king embarked on a voyage that would drastically alter his daughter's fate. With eleven-year-old Gouramma by his side, he journeyed to London. The objective was twofold: to petition the British authorities for the restitution of his seized assets and to ensure that his daughter was afforded security and protection under the Christian faith. It was during this trip that both father and daughter became the first documented Indians to set foot in Britain. The king, guided by his close confidante Dr. William Jeafersson, prioritized the discussion of Gouramma's upbringing and welfare in the British court before pursuing claims to his property. A Queen's Patronage, A Princess's Rebirth Upon arrival, Princess Gouramma caught the attention of Queen Victoria. The British monarch formally adopted her as a goddaughter, bestowing upon her the name Victoria Gouramma of Coorg. This symbolic christening marked her official entry into British aristocracy. Though it seemed like a dream opportunity, it instead laid the foundation for a complex and ultimately tragic life. Cultural Erosion and the Loss of Identity According to Chandrica Barua in her scholarly article 'Poor Little Princess': Queen Victoria's Court as a Site of Imperial Conquest,' Gouramma's life in Victorian Britain was not one of warmth and welcome, but of calculated display and cultural estrangement. Barua described how the young princess, forcibly detached from her homeland and roots in the 1850s, underwent a sweeping transformation. She was converted to Christianity, forced into English customs, trained in Western etiquette, and paraded as a symbol of imperial success—a colonial trophy. Despite being presented as a civilizational triumph of the Empire, she never truly found a place in the restrictive and racially charged environment of Queen Victoria's court. Placed under the guardianship of Major and Mrs. Drummond, a British military couple, Princess Gouramma was systematically distanced from her heritage. Educated in the ways of the West, she embraced the external trappings of Victorian high society. Contemporary accounts described her as graceful, vivacious, and adept in social settings, but these traits masked the silent dislocation she experienced. Language Lost, Roots Severed Barua highlighted Queen Victoria's frequent references to her in her diaries, often using the phrase 'poor little princess.' This phrase, though affectionate on the surface, reflected the condescension and racialized pity directed toward Gouramma. The British elite viewed her father with suspicion and disdain, often describing him as a "hoary reprobate," a relic of Asiatic despotism, morally questionable and a bad influence. Barua cited recollections from Gouramma's imperial guardians that confirmed a disturbing cultural erasure. The princess, over time, lost all connection to her mother tongue, Kannada, and became incapable of speaking with her father. By her teenage years, any curiosity or concern for her homeland had been deliberately subdued, and she showed indifference to Coorg's political or cultural affairs. Romantic Misfortunes and a Crumbling Facade In Victoria Gouramma: The Lost Princess of Coorg, author C. P. Belliappa detailed the emotional void in Gouramma's personal life. She sought love in forbidden places—initially with a stablehand and later with a butler named George Christmas while living with Colonel Vernon Harcourt and his wife, Lady Catherine Harcourt. These relationships, although brief, underscore her longing for companionship. Queen Victoria had aspirations of orchestrating a royal union between Princess Gouramma and Maharaja Duleep Singh, another royal orphan absorbed into the British establishment. However, the relationship between the two godchildren never blossomed romantically. Instead, they developed a close, sibling-like friendship. Duleep Singh, recognizing the limits of British acceptance, eventually arranged her marriage to Colonel John Campbell—a military officer five decades her senior. Prejudice Cloaked In Politeness Despite her formal inclusion in British high society, Gouramma faced subtle but entrenched racial biases. Chandrica Barua cited Lady Login's journal entries, which described Gouramma's desperate attempts to be embraced by her husband's family. "'It was pathetic, the eagerness with which poor Gouramma identified herself with her husband's family,'" Login wrote in her notes. Lady Login's tone appeared mocking, reflecting the underlying sentiment that no amount of Westernization could make an Indian woman truly acceptable within elite British circles. Even though she had been baptised, educated, and Anglicised, Gouramma remained an outsider in the eyes of many—suitable only for symbolic unions with other colonized elites, not as an equal within the British gentry. Sickness, Solitude, And Betrayal Outwardly maintaining appearances, Gouramma's inner world was deteriorating. Chronic illness gnawed at her body — she frequently suffered from bouts of coughing and weakness. Her emotional pain deepened when she realized the true nature of her marriage. Colonel Campbell, it turned out, was less interested in her as a partner and more concerned with the wealth she had brought into the relationship. The dream of stability and love faded into a harsh reality of neglect and exploitation. Historian Dr. Priya Atwal revealed in a The Quin t report that Queen Victoria had prohibited Gouramma from seeing her father, fearing he would "corrupt" her with his 'heathen' and native influences. This further cemented her emotional isolation. In 1861, Gouramma gave birth to her daughter, Edith. However, rather than basking in motherhood, she was forced into the role of a solitary parent, for Campbell had no interest in fatherhood. Two years later, at the tender age of 22, Gouramma lost her life to tuberculosis. She died in obscurity, having endured a lifetime of alienation, exploitation, and cultural loss. Legacy And Rediscovery For decades, it was assumed that Princess Gouramma's bloodline ended with her. However, C. P. Belliappa later discovered that her legacy lived on. As reported in The Deccan Herald, Belliappa was contacted by Anne Phillips, a descendant of Campbell and his first wife, Margaret Mathew. Phillips shared rare, previously unseen photographs of Gouramma and her daughter Edith from her family's private collection. Further tracing revealed that one of Gouramma's great-great-grandsons, Robert Yardley, resides in Australia. Despite this continuation of her bloodline, the memory of the princess remains obscure in popular discourse. Her grave lies neglected in Brompton Cemetery, London—a solemn monument to a life that began in royalty and ended in loneliness. Gouramma's story, filled with displacement, unreciprocated love, and quiet resilience, stands as a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked personal costs of colonialism. Her journey, while paved with imperial promises, ultimately revealed the harsh limitations of cultural assimilation and the enduring scars of racial marginalization.
India.com
15-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Which is first Indian restaurant in England? It was started by man from..., name of restaurant is...
Which is first Indian restaurant in England? It was started by man from..., name of restaurant is... Nowadays, good Indian cuisine is available at plenty of restaurants in London, yet very few people know about the man who went to London from Patna, Bihar, and opened the first Indian restaurant there, a whopping 215 years ago! Who was this man? He was none other than Patna's Sake-Din-Mohammad. The website of Brighton and Hove Museum, ( says Sake-Din-Mohammed opened a restaurant named 'Hindoostane Coffee House' near Portman Square in London, which served Indian cuisine. It was Britain's first Indian restaurant, and was established in 1810. Who was Sake-Din-Mohammed? Born in 1759, and hailing from a Muslim family based in India's Patna, Mohammed began his career in the army of the British East India Company, and served until 1782. Afterwards, he moved to Ireland with his friend. He met a local woman there, Jane Daly, whom he married shortly after. How did he conceive the idea of first Indian restaurant in London? The couple reached England, where he planned on doing something new to earn a livelihood. This was not a big problem, as he could use one of his many skills to set up a business and earn well. He got a rather unique idea-to serve Indian cuisine in London, and opened England's first Indian restaurant named 'Hindustan Coffee House' in 1810. Unfortunately, his restaurant was too ahead of its time, couldn't flourish, and fell into trouble. But, the restaurant not being successful did not demotivate him, he rather moved to Brighton in 1814, where he gained much more success. During the time sea bathing was extremely popular in the area, he was the one who opened an indoor bath in Pool Valley at the beach. Here, the first vapour bath centre which provided hot water and steam baths using Indian herbs and medicines was opened. This can be considered the first spa of the early days. At that time, his innovative ideas and their creative implementation helped him bring a revolution in the wellness sector. In Mohammed's bathhouse, people were able to take a hot bath in the sea water which was brought in using pipes and was heated. This became quite popular due to the weather of Britain being extremely chilling. How was he the pioneer of many new ideas? Not only the restaurant and the bathhouse, but Sake is also considered the inventor of shampoo. Shocking? He also brought Ayurvedic medicines and many treatments from India, starting a type of aromatherapy massage that involved shampooing with Indian oils, and began the spa experience. Sake-Din-Mohammed was the first Indian to write a book in English, which he published in the year 1794. It was named 'The Travels of Dean Mohammed', marking him as the first Indian writer to publish in English.
India.com
15-07-2025
- India.com
Coastal Vibes + Hidden Wonders: 6 Places Near Varkala That'll Steal Your Heart
Varkala is located along the Arabian Sea, and it's known for its pristine cliffs, sandy beaches, and serene backwaters. Nevertheless, behind Varkala's attractive features are countless hidden gems waiting for discovery. The area surrounding Varkala is characterized by a mix of vibrant greenery, historical sites and cultural experiences that enthrall thrill-seeking tourists looking for adventure as well as those in need of peace and cultural immersion. Here are highlights of places to go near Varkala which ensure an unforgettable journey through this captivating region in India. 1. Kappil Beach Kappil beach is a calm haven a few kilometers from Varkala. This solitary beach has golden sand, swaying coconut trees at the edge of the waterways that merge with sea making it a peaceful getaway from busy crowds. You can go swimming or sunbathing there or just relax watching mesmerizing sunset views. That makes the boat ride through the backwaters worth visiting; you can explore intricate mangrove forests and also spot various bird species thereby making it a must-visit place for nature lovers. 2. Anjengo Fort Anjengo Fort speaks volumes about Kerala colonial past and architectural splendor. Built in the 17th century by the British East India Company, this ancient fortification reflects Kerala colonial history. On top of it being built on hillock overlooking the vast sea provides breathtaking scenery around well preserved structures like Dutch cemetery, ancient burial ground, iconic lighthouse among others leaves every visitor walk along its ramparts will take back your memories to an olden time when powerful shipping companies were fighting over continents. Island Experience tranquility on Ponnumthuruthu Island also known as Golden Island situated amid peaceful backwaters of Kollam district. Known as the Golden Island, Ponnumthuruthu Island is found in Kollam district's calm backwaters. To get there, you can take a boat ride from Nedunganda Village which will help you to relax your mind and soul. One of the attractions here is the 100 year old Shiva Parvathi Temple devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi that attracts tourists and devotees in equal measure. You can be in a peaceful silence with the green forests, listen to nature's whispers, and perform some spiritual rituals for a deep soul experience. Lake Edava–Nadayara Lake is another must-visit spot if you want to become one with nature since it is located near Varkala. On its shores are lush coconut groves and mangrove forests that make this lake crystal clear. It is an ideal place for boating, kayaking or even bird watching because of its picturesque location. Even through still watersand grassy landscapes around us one can find various birds like herons, egrets or kingfishers- this experience makes feeling a fresh breeze on your face very special and attractive look of Edava-Nadayara lakeside placidness coupled with its cool atmosphere make it a perfect spot to unwind amidst the embrace of Mother Nature. Temple Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of Janardanaswamy Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Situated in Varkala, this sacred pilgrimage site holds immense religious significance and architectural grandeur. With intricate carvings, towering gopurams, and a serene temple tank, it exudes divine sanctity. Every year a great Arattu festival is celebrated here with much devotion drawing crowds from various parts of India which gives the place a very rich cultural life. It will only take one trip to Janardanaswamy Temple for anyone to understand Kerala's culture and spirituality as well as its deep-rooted tradition. 6. Sivagiri Mutt Delve into the spiritual ethos of Kerala by visiting Sivagiri Mutt, a renowned ashram and pilgrimage center situated atop the Sivagiri hill near Varkala. Founded by the revered social reformer and philosopher, Sree Narayana Guru, this spiritual enclave serves as a beacon of enlightenment and social upliftment. The last resting place for Sree Narayana Guru is within the ashram premises attracting devotees and followers who seek spiritual solace so that they can be enlightened as well. Set amidst peaceful surroundings; cultural programs like discourses on spirituality are organized at different occasions making it become a global village. Wrapping Up The vicinity of Varkala beckons travelers with its enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual allure. From tranquil beaches and historic forts to serene backwaters and sacred temples, the region offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler. Whether you seek solace amidst nature's embrace or delve into history or spirit quest; these are some top places which can be visited near Varkala that guarantees an enriching journey leaving an indelible mark on your soul forever. Now pack your bags because you will go on a wonderful trip to Kerala, India.
