Latest news with #Irani
NDTV
5 days ago
- Business
- NDTV
Techie Praises Hyderabad's Warmth Over Bengaluru, Pune, Gurgaon: "No One Shames You..."
Siddhant Gupta, a Hyderabad-based NIT Raipur alumnus, has gone viral on LinkedIn with a heartfelt post about what makes Hyderabad stand out among India's tech hubs. After spending two years in the city, Mr Gupta shared his thoughts on how Hyderabad may not have the same attractions as other cities like Bengaluru, Pune, or Gurgaon, but it makes up for it with something truly special - its people. He acknowledged that Hyderabad may lack Bengaluru's pleasant weather, Pune's scenic treks, or Gurgaon's vibrant nightlife, but emphasised that the city's unique charm lies in its residents and the warmth they offer. Mr Gupta highlighted the language issue, commonly seen in cities like Bengaluru. He noted that in Hyderabad, people are not judged for not knowing the local language and are treated with equal respect. "Hyderabad has something many places are slowly losing—human warmth. Here, no one embarrasses you for not speaking Telugu. No one shames you for not knowing the local slang. People don't demand identity before offering help—they simply show up. When you step into Hyderabad, you're not asked 'Where are you from? " he wrote. See the post here: Mr Gupta further shared his everyday encounters in the city, highlighting the kindness of its residents. He noted that the auto driver might not speak English, but would still go the extra mile to ensure a safe drop-off. Similarly, the chai vendor might not know a customer's language, but would serve a cup of Irani chai with a warm nod. In Hyderabad, respect and kindness transcend language barriers, and cultures blend harmoniously. "And in a city where cultures blend silently, respect speaks louder than any tongue. Hyderabad is not just about the world's best biryani (though, let's be honest-it is unbeatable it's about the quiet pride of being inclusive. It's about being rooted, yet open. It's about being home to everyone-techie or not, Telugu or not. So no, Hyderabad may not have the "buzz" of other metros. But it has a heart. And sometimes, that's all that matters," he concluded the post. The emotional post has resonated with many online, highlighting the city's irreplaceable human connections. One user wrote, "Hyderabad is my home for the last 21 years. What you wrote above, I have experienced from day 1 to date. I love this city and the warmth of the people. Hence, I am a 100% proud and pakka Hyderabadi." Another commented, "Yes, it's a beautiful city that has a great blend of culture." A third added, "Couldn't agree more. People in Hyderabad are too generous."
The Hindu
6 days ago
- General
- The Hindu
Homely, rustic food shines at Itihaas restaurant in Thiruvananthapuram
Itihaas restaurant located by Muttada Road at Paruthipara, opposite Thomsun Bakers in Thiruvananthapuram, resembles a traditional naalukettu (a house with an open central courtyard) in Kerala. An intricately designed white balcony railing stands behind the big bold red letters announcing the eatery's name. The brick-tiled roof, slightly discoloured from age, shelters the building supported by concrete and wooden pillars. A glass shelf with snacks jostling for space and a steaming tea container welcomes the hungry customers outside the building. Inside the restaurant, the wooden stairs and flooring add to the place's rustic feel. Apart from wooden tables and chairs, Itihaas also has majlis-style seating arrangement and can seat around 100 people at a time. After being seated, I was attracted by the snacks and aroma of the chai I saw upon my arrival. I asked for a plate of chicken samosas and tea, despite my (unwavering) loyalty to coffee. Two samosas were served on a sheet of tissue paper on a steel plate accompanied by milk tea served in a glass. Traces of oil left on the tissue paper as I grabbed one of the samosas left no doubts about whether the snack was healthy at all. But did I care one bit? Absolutely not! The crispy and flaky samosa enveloped the shredded chicken flavoured with masalas that co-owner and chef Shafna Shifas, calls her own. The onions add a subtle sweetness, complimenting the rest of the filling. The pulverised meat has a bite to it, not getting overpowered by the rest of ingredients. The tea was mild, milky and moderately sweet. Its taste reminded me of an Irani chai boiled to perfection in fragrance and flavour. Snacks start from ₹10, which include varieties of Malabar bites and even Mangalore bun, the puri-like deep-fried bun, originally from Karnataka. This is the fourth restaurant owned by Shafna and her husband Shifas Sait. The other three are in Bengaluru and were started by the couple in 2016. 'The main reason why we came to Thiruvananthapuram, is because I am passionate about this place,' says Shafna, originally from Peyad, on the outskirts of the city. Shafna says, 'My parents are great cooks, and my father used to cook Chinese food at home when I was a child. I have never had Chinese food tastier than that. Now my three brothers together run a restaurant at my native place.' Itihaas offers a wide menu featuring dishes from Kerala, Chinese, and Arabic cuisines among others. The non-vegetarian options include protein-rich varieties such as chicken, mutton, beef and sea food — from 'Alleppey' chicken curry to prawns in black pepper sauce. Their specials include dishes such as Kasaragod beef palli curry, mutton cheriyulli cheena chattiyilitt vattichathu (mutton cooked down in a wok with shallots) and cheriyulli kozhi (shallot chicken), among others. The cheriyulli kozhi and mutton cheriyulli cheenachattiyilitt vattichathu have a similar preparation — cooking the meat with caramelised shallots in a spicy, secret masala. Tomato, ginger, and garlic are added to it as well. It is cooked till the gravy thickens. The dish is served in a small hot cast iron wok or cheenachatti at the table. The sizzling chicken with the red masala is served on a bed of cabbage leaves. The cheriyulli kozhi works well with rice dishes. The succulent chicken covered in the spicy gravy with the flavour of shallots complements the tang from the tomato. However, garlic slightly overpowers the dish with its pungent nature. This dish costs ₹349 plus taxes and mutton cheriyulli cheenachattiyilitt vattichathu costs ₹499 plus taxes. Malabar chicken biryani is another dish to look out for. One portion comes with two dum-cooked pieces of chicken and a boiled egg, served with raita, beetroot pickle and pappadam. The chicken was cooked to perfection with a subtle flavour. The rice was fragrant from the aromatics and enhances the masala with onions and powdered spices. The tangy beetroot pickle and raita cut through the richness of the biryani as well. The Malabar chicken biryani costs ₹249 for a plate and is also available in egg, mutton, beef, fish and prawns. Hyderabadi biriyani varieties are also available, starting from ₹100 for vegetable biriyani. Itihaas offers a vegetarian breakfast buffet for ₹49 with idiyappam, idli, dosa puri upma, kesari and so on. Accompaniments include kadala curry, sambar, vegetable stew and so on. A non-vegetarian breakfast buffet includes chicken stew, beef curry and egg masala at ₹249. The breakfast service begins at 7am and goes on till 11.15 am. On Sundays, they serve pidiyum kozhiyum, a traditional dish with boiled rice powder balls served with chicken curry at ₹299 plus taxes.
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Shehki believes romance is the key to good music
In an interview with Imran Ashraf, veteran musician Mohammed Ali Shehki shared that his approach to music involves romance, be it real or fantasy. And he believes that all artists should champion a similar mindset. Confessing that he would picture his muse while performing, he said, "An artist has to be in love all the time, whether it is with your wife, girlfriend, or someone who only exists in your fantasy." Tapping into his romantic side, the singer serenaded the audience with his hit love song, Pyar Kiya Mein Ne Dil Diya. Indulging nostalgia, he reflected on his past fame and the road that led him to stardom in the 1970s. "There was a lot of craze in that era. But that doesn't exist now since there has been an influx of singers in the scene. Now, nobody is aware of who's who, but back then, there were only a few of us. Actually, just two," he said, nodding to his and Alamgir's names. The Mae Bhi Pakistan Hoon singer then shared the origins of his journey. "It used to be very difficult to get into the entertainment industry. A makeup artist, Lily Raza, carved the path inside for me," he said, adding that the two formed a connection due to having Irani roots. Shehki, who is also recognised for his acting credits in films such as Dekh Tamasha and Choron Ka Badshah, mentioned that he used to perform at hotels before earning his big break. "Ghazanfar Ali had come on television for the first time. He was doing a program with Tara Ghanshyam, who had a full show to herself. She would sing, dance, and introduce new artists in the show. So they took me as a new artist." He recalled that a song was created as a duet for the two of them, though Ghanshyam had taken ill before it could be performed. "Either she was unable to sing it or she was down with a bellyache, so she left," he said. "I thought that I'd lost that opportunity. But then Ghazanfar Ali sahab said, 'Hey, listen. You'll sing this song solo without any complaints.' So I sat there and the song was rewritten." That led to Shehki availing what became his second shot as a solo artist, though this one got him the recognition he was looking for. "I was in the studio singing while the musicians recorded everything live, and the song was made," he said. "Then as time passed, the song became a superhit."
News18
6 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Ghar Vaapsi: Smriti Irani's Visit To Amethi Ahead Of Panchayat Polls 'Sets Tone For 2029'
Last Updated: Political analysts described Irani's comeback as 'a strategic move to re-engage with the grassroots, test public sentiment, and reset political equations ahead of 2029 polls.' ' Amethi ki Didi thi, hoon aur rahoongi (I am Amethi's sister and will remain so)" – these words defined former union minister Smriti Irani's return to Amethi, her first visit to the constituency after a long time, following her defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. While the occasion coincided with the birth anniversary of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, the political symbolism of her visit extended far beyond the commemorative event. Political analysts in Uttar Pradesh described Irani's comeback as 'a strategic move to re-engage with the grassroots, test public sentiment, and reset political equations ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls", especially after her loss on a seat she had once turned into a BJP stronghold. Experts also said that her timely visit served as a morale booster for party workers gearing up for the upcoming panchayat elections and the crucial 2027 Assembly Polls. Addressing a gathering at Rananjay Inter College grounds in Gauriganj, Irani struck an emotional and combative note. 'I am a labourer. What do I have to do with the settlements of the rich?" she declared, reciting verses from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's iconic poem to underscore her commitment to grassroots politics and laborious public service – ' Main mazdoor hoon, mujhe devon ki basti se kya! Ganitwar dhara par main swarg banaoon…" The Political Weight of Her Visit Political analyst and veteran commentator Sheetla Prasad Mishra sees Irani's return as more than a mere courtesy call. 'Smriti Irani's comeback is not accidental or emotional; it is strategic," said Mishra. 'After her defeat to Kishori Lal Sharma of Congress, many believed she would abandon Amethi like other parachute politicians. But by returning on this symbolic day – May 26, the same day Modi took oath as PM in 2014 – she is reclaiming political legitimacy in the eyes of her supporters," added Mishra. 'Her statement—'Now I live next to your house'—was not casual," said Mishra. He said it was a reassurance that her political presence will persist despite the electoral setback. From 'Guest' to 'Sister' Irani was introduced at the event as a 'guest", but in her speech she redefined her identity. 'My relationship with Amethi is not of blood, but of struggle, sweat, and respect. In 2014, I was given only 22 days to contest here. Even then, the people called me 'Didi'. Eleven years later, they no longer see me as a former MP but as a sister." The crowd responded warmly, suggesting that despite the electoral loss, Irani has retained a significant emotional connect in the constituency. Legacy and Achievements In her address, Irani listed key achievements from her tenure as MP: the AK-203 rifle factory, Coca-Cola bottling plant, a medical college, a Sainik School, and the development of an industrial corridor. She also mentioned that she has donated her MP pension to the National Defence Fund, a gesture to support the families of martyrs. She painted a picture of a 'new Amethi" – transformed from a neglected Congress stronghold into a symbol of development. 'Amethi today is a land of industries and opportunities," she said, emphasising how women-led Self Help Groups and strengthened Panchayati Raj institutions have brought about grassroots change. Criticism Cloaked in Sentiment While her speech was largely conciliatory, she could not hide her disappointment over the election result. Using metaphor, she remarked: 'Sisters build homes, brothers protect them," – a subtle yet loaded statement implying a lack of protective solidarity from her party workers or perhaps the broader electorate. She also reminded the audience that when she first arrived in 2014, the BJP wasn't in power, yet she continued her work. 'We don't calculate gains, we earn virtue," she said, reinforcing her image as a selfless worker. A Litmus Test for 2029 The return of Smriti Irani to Amethi might be seen by some as a routine visit, but the layers beneath suggest a deeper political recalibration. According to Sheetla Mishra, 'This visit could be a litmus test for 2029. If she rebuilds her base and stays in close touch, she might attempt a comeback with a stronger narrative." Irani ended her one-day visit by meeting local BJP workers and reminding them of their foundational values—dedication, discipline, and trust. Her visit also acted as a morale booster for the party cadre, especially ahead of upcoming Panchayati Elections and 2027 State Assembly Polls, added Mishra. Irani Consoles Grieving Family in Jagdishpur Before addressing the public in Gauriganj, Smriti Irani made an emotional and unscheduled stop at a residence in Jagdishpur, where a family was mourning the tragic drowning of three of its members in the Ganga River a day earlier. The moment was heavy with grief as she entered the modest home, surrounded by stunned silence and tearful eyes. Irani sat with the bereaved family, offering quiet condolences and holding the hands of the grieving. The most poignant moment came when the young daughter of one of the deceased saw Irani and burst into tears. The former minister, visibly moved, embraced the girl tightly as she sobbed, offering comfort in silence rather than words. This gesture – raw, humane, and unfiltered – spoke volumes, cutting across political lines. Irani didn't issue any official statement during the visit; she simply listened, comforted, and stood in solidarity with the family in their moment of unimaginable loss. For the locals, this wasn't a politician visiting for optics, it was 'Didi" coming home. This brief but heartfelt stop illustrated the deeply personal connection Irani still holds with segments of the Amethi electorate, reminding everyone that beyond political equations, moments of shared humanity often leave the deepest impact. In an age where electoral losses often mean political exits, Smriti Irani's re-entry into Amethi is an exception. Whether it results in political revival remains to be seen, but for now, she has reasserted her emotional and symbolic claim on the land she once conquered. She left for Delhi via Lucknow by Monday evening, but not before leaving a clear message: that her political journey in Amethi is far from over. tags : amethi smriti irani Location : Lucknow, India, India First Published: May 27, 2025, 13:31 IST News politics Ghar Vaapsi: Smriti Irani's Visit To Amethi Ahead Of Panchayat Polls 'Sets Tone For 2029'
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
My relation with Amethi is of family, will never break: Irani
Lucknow: Nearly a year after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, former BJP MP Smriti Irani returned to Amethi on Monday, marking her first significant public appearance in the constituency after her defeat. Irani, who represented Amethi Lok Sabha seat in 2019, turned emotional as she visited her former parliamentary constituency after nearly 11 months. "I have an old connection with Amethi. It's a relationship of family, of blood, such ties are never weak and never break. Amethi has accepted me as a sister and the bond of a sister with her home only ends with her funeral," said Irani. "The relationship you all have built with me will not be allowed to break," she added. While she was back to her former constituency to participate in an event marking the 300th birth anniversary of Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, the visit sparked political buzz and speculation over her future role in the region's politics. Irani chose to keep her visit a low-key affair. After landing at Lucknow airport, she headed straight to Amethi. Sources said she did not interact much with the party workers who had gathered in a fair presence to greet her at the airport. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like O novo dispositivo que os idosos usam para ajudar na dor nos nervos A arte do herbalismo Undo Irani reached Jagdishpur, where she met the family whose three members drowned in the Ganga during the 'asthi visarjan' ceremony on Sunday. The Jagdishpur assembly segment happens to be part of the Amethi Lok Sabha seat, which Irani lost to Congress's Kishori Lal Sharma by a margin of over 1.6 lakh votes. Irani was greeted by party workers on her way to the constituency, where she even bought a house just before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Sources said that the former BJP MP camped in her house and met a select group of party workers. She reportedly took feedback about the prevailing situation in the constituency and the emerging poll scenario. She later visited the party office in Amethi and met party workers there as well. Popularly known as 'Didi' among locals, Irani kept a notably low profile since losing the seat she dramatically wrested from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in 2019. The BJP leader assured the crowd that she would no longer wait for 11 months to visit Amethi again. Irani said the vision of a strong nation is incomplete without the progress of its villages and communities. "When the BJP govt was formed under the leadership of Narendra Modi in 2014, it laid special emphasis on rural development," she added. Taking a jibe at the opposition party without directly naming it, Irani said, "Before 2014, the budget allocated for panchayat development was Rs 70,000 crore. This was increased to Rs 2.5 lakh crore. As a result, India is not just stronger today, but our economy now ranks fourth in the world." Escalating her attack on the Congress, the BJP leader claimed that no recruitment was carried out for 32 years from the local army recruitment office. "It was the Modi govt that restarted the process, enabling 10,000 local youth to join the armed forces," she said. Irani credited Prime Minister Modi with establishing a gun factory in Amethi that has so far delivered 33,000 rifles to the Indian Army. Highlighting the development works carried out in the constituency during her tenure and under the BJP governments at the Centre and in Uttar Pradesh, Irani said the "double-engine government" brought projects such as a Sainik School, Kendriya Vidyalaya, medical college, fertilizer rake centre, Krishi Vigyan Kendra and a Coca Cola factory to Amethi. Her return to Amethi, not surprisingly, reignited discussions in political circles about the BJP's strategy for reviving its base in the constituency and whether Irani would continue to be the party's face in the region.
