Latest news with #Jayaraj


Pink Villa
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
6 Malayalam movies featuring Sahasam actor Narain you should watch on OTT: Ayalum Njanum Thammil to 2018
Actor Narain is a well-known name in both Malayalam and Tamil cinema, lauded for his versatility in both lead and supporting roles. The actor's latest flick, Sahasam, is currently running in theaters. While you're deciding whether to watch it on the big screens or not, why not explore some of his Malayalam films on OTT? 6 Malayalam movies ft Sahasam actor Narain 1. 4 The People Cast: Narain, Arun Cherukavil, Bharath, Arjun Bose, Padma Kumar, Gopika Director: Jayaraj Genre: Vigilante Action Thriller Where to watch: ManoramaMAX 4 The People is a Malayalam-language vigilante action thriller starring Narain (credited as Sunil Kumar) in a key role. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jayaraj, the film follows the tale of 4 engineering students who lead double lives as members of a vigilante group called '4 The People.' They target corrupt politicians, eliminating them before more damage can be done to society. A trendsetter in the early 2000s of Kerala, 4 The People still enjoys a cult classic status. It is often described as a pioneering film in the new wave of Malayalam cinema. 2. Classmates Classmates revolves around a group of college friends who studied together in 1991. When they reunite in 2006, the happy occasion takes a dark turn when one of them is mysteriously attacked and left in a coma. The rest of the story focuses on uncovering who was behind the attack and the hidden emotions that resurface at the reunion. 3. Ayalum Njanum Thammil Cast: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Narain, Pratap Pothen, Samvrutha Sunil, Rima Kallingal, Remya Nambeesan Director: Lal Jose Genre: Medical Drama Where to watch: SunNXT Ayalum Njanum Thammil is a medical romantic drama starring Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead role. As Narain played a pivotal role in the flick, it narrates the tale of an irresponsible junior doctor whose life is transformed after working under the guidance of a dedicated senior surgeon. As their mentor-mentee bond deepens, the young doctor realizes his responsibility as a medical practitioner while confronting personal and professional challenges. 4. Grandmaster Grandmaster centers on IG Chandrasekhar, an IPS officer who receives an anonymous note warning him of an impending crime. As he delves into the investigation, he must also grapple with the emotional fallout of his marriage. Inspired by the novel, The A.B.C. Murders by Agatha Christie, it was the 1st Malayalam movie to release on Netflix in the United States of America and Canada. It was also the 1st Malayalam flick to release outside of Kerala with English subtitles. 5. Robinhood: Prince of Thieves Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is a Malayalam-language action thriller that is based on a 1991 Hollywood film of the same name. The action thriller narrates the tale of Venky, an entrance coaching institute professor who moonlights as a high-tech thief who robs bank ATMs using cloned cards, targeting a single bank. While Narain plays a key role in this cat-and-mouse crime story, the film follows Venky's motivation into the world of crime and why he targets a single bank. 6. 2018 2018 is a gripping disaster drama movie based on the 2018 Kerala floods, which devastated the region. The film, released in 2023, features the lives of several individuals whose lives are upended as they try to survive the crisis. Narain plays the role of Winston, a fisherman who risks his own life to save others from the crisis. The movie was well-received by the critics and was a massive hit in theaters.

The Hindu
01-08-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Bamboo on your plate: KFRI brings a nutritious forest treasure to everyday diet
A crunchy, nutrient-rich revolution is under way, and it is rooted deep in Kerala's forests. The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) has developed bamboo shoot-based flakes and powder, a step that could bring one of nature's most overlooked superfoods to kitchen shelves across the country. Bamboo shoots, long cherished in the cuisines of Northeast India and Southeast Asia, are now being given a new form for South Indian palates, thanks to the efforts of a team led by R. Jayaraj, Principal Scientist at KFRI. 'The goal is not just nutritional innovation, but also creating value-added products that are sustainable and farmer-friendly,' according to Dr. Jayaraj. The products are made from tender bamboo shoots (locally called mulan koombu), which are harvested, processed to remove moisture, and then converted into flakes and powder without losing their natural nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins, proteins, minerals, and low in fat, these bamboo products support digestion and help regulate body weight, according to the scientists. High fibre content With their mild flavour and texture, bamboo flakes and powder can be blended into bakery items like biscuits, breads, and healthy snacks. What's more, the high fibre content and nutritional properties make it an excellent dietary addition for health-conscious consumers. But despite their promise, these products are still in their early stages of market penetration. Lack of awareness among public about the nutritional properties of the product is a challenge. The scientists also face the hurdles in raw material sourcing and lack of commercial-scale partners to take this forward. However, the potential for rural impact is enormous. Commercialising bamboo-based food products could open new income streams for bamboo cultivators, particularly in tribal and forest-adjacent communities. The KFRI believes this innovation could also boost bamboo cultivation in Kerala. At conclave As part of its push to scale the initiative, the KFRI will present these bamboo-based products at an upcoming Research and Development conclave hosted by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment on August 7 in Thiruvananthapuram. In a world turning toward nature for answers to modern health problems, bamboo may soon go from forest floor to dining table, ushering in a greener, healthier tomorrow.

New Indian Express
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Thullal with a cause
Students had gathered in huge numbers, anxiously waiting for the anti-drugs session to begin. Talk sessions are often boring. But to their surprise, a man dressed for an ottanthullal performance stepped onto the stage. Wrong event? Not at all. This is how Jayaraj V, an assistant excise inspector from the Mattancherry excise range office, has been delivering anti-narcotics message — through this traditional art form. Ottanthullal is an art form that once brought performance out of the elite families of Kerala to the common people. Its founder, Kunjan Nambiar, used poetic tunes in near-colloquial language to criticise various social evils. Jayaraj follows that spirit, but adds Gen-Z lingo and pop culture to highlight the dark world of drug abuse. Since 2018, he has performed on over 600 stages while continuing to fulfil his official duties. 'Our main target is students, and it's extremely difficult to grab their attention,' Jayaraj says. His teenage children help him stay updated with the latest slang and trends to make his message more relatable. One can only imagine the impact of seeing a reference to the viral flying kiss scene from the film Oru Adaar Love in a thullal that tackles such a serious issue. Even Jayaraj knows that thullal alone cannot hold students' attention for long. So, he trimmed his performance from 45 minutes to 20, followed by an interactive discussion on how alcohol and drugs often creep into young lives. He performs in schools, colleges, and residential associations and does his own makeup before stepping on stage. All his shows are coordinated through his office.


Hindustan Times
26-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Urologist explains role of gut microbiota in kidney health and diseases: ‘To avoid kidney issues, focus on gut health'
Your gut is one of the most important parts of your body. Several studies now show that a healthy gut means overall wellbeing, and have linked it to a healthy immune system, good mental health, and lower risk of autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. Did you know that a healthy gut is also associated with your kidney health? To avoid kidney-related issues and maintain good overall health, focus on gut health. (Freepik) Also Read | Hepatologist calls Satvic Movement 'utter nonsense'; explains why people should stop falling for influencer sweet talks In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr AK Jayaraj, MBBS, MS -Urology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, explained the role of gut microbiota in kidney health and disease. The role of gut microbiota Known for its role in digestion and immune function, microbiota involves gazillions of microorganisms existing in the human gut. According to the urologist, if there is an imbalance of the microbiome, known as dysbiosis, it leads to health issues. 'During this stage, it could trigger kidney disease and hamper everyday life. Dysbiosis induces uremic toxins like indole and p-cresol, causing the buildup of harmful substances,' he explained. In individuals facing kidney issues, the toxins accumulate or, worse, mingle with the blood flow. (Shutterstock) He also stated that: 'Usually, healthy gut toxins get filtered out by the kidneys, but with individuals facing kidney issues, for example, chronic kidney disease or intestinal permeability (leaky gut), the toxins accumulate or, worse, mingle with the blood flow.' In such situations, the patient often faces several issues, such as: Cardiovascular issues Inflammation in the body Toxin buildup, leading to kidney impairment or a reduction in kidney function A healthy gut means a healthy kidney Per Dr Jayaraj, to improve health or address gut problems, medical examinations or routine checkups are necessary. He explained: 'For instance, an individual needs to get checked with urine and blood tests. In some extreme cases, stool tests are advised to evaluate the status of gut health and prescribe medications to reduce toxins.' In conclusion, he added, 'To avoid kidney-related issues and maintain good overall health, focusing on gut health plays a vital role. Indulging in regular medical examinations keeps individuals informed and diagnoses any early diseases.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.


Time of India
14-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Traditional fishing festival draws thousands at Periya Kanmai
1 2 3 4 Madurai: The annual fishing festival at Cholappereri Kanmai, popularly known as Periya Kanmai, was celebrated in grand traditional style on Saturday near Thiruvadhavur in Melur taluk. More than a thousand people from nearby villages and neighbouring districts, including Sivagangai and Dindigul, gathered for the event. The day began with rituals led by village elders, accompanied by the beat of traditional drums and fireworks. Following the ceremonial tossing of white feathers into the tank—a symbolic gesture allowing fishing to begin—participants of all ages waded into the water using traditional tools such as kacha, uttha, and baskets. Local fish varieties such as kendai (carp) and catla, some weighing up to 10 kg, were caught. In keeping with tradition, the catch was not sold but shared, cooked, and eaten on-site, underscoring the spirit of unity and community. "This festival is not just about fishing. It's about unity, faith in the rains, and agricultural prosperity," said a village elder. Locals believe that the festival invokes good rainfall and ensures a bountiful harvest. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Investire è più facile che mai BG SAXO Scopri di più Undo However, concerns were raised over ecological changes. Jayaraj, a participant from Dindigul, warned about the growing presence of tank cleaner fish—an invasive species previously confined to the Vaigai. "These fish are spreading across tanks in Madurai and threatening native species. The fisheries department should intervene before it's too late," he said. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .