Latest news with #RajendraPrasad
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Tobacco consumption doubles infertility risk: Experts
Lucknow: Though often associated with cancer only, tobacco consumption also doubles infertility risk and even causes mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. This was stated by health experts at KGMU on the eve of World No Tobacco Day raising concerns about the rising threat of tobacco and nicotine products. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "Tobacco doesn't just damage the lungs—it harms almost every organ. It damages sperm, lowers hormone levels, and reduces overall reproductive health. This means its use can double the risk of infertility in men, reduce women's reproductive capacity by 30%, and cause birth complications including low birth weight and stillbirths," said Prof Ved Prakash, head of the department of pulmonary and critical care medicine. He added people often associate tobacco only with cancer, but it is a slow poison that also causes heart attacks, strokes, asthma and even anxiety and depression. Former HOD of the pulmonary department Prof Rajendra Prasad said: "The illusion that new-age tobacco products like e-cigarettes or nicotine pouches are safer is extremely dangerous. These products contain high levels of addictive nicotine and act as a gateway to traditional tobacco use, especially among teenagers." Smoking tobacco increases the risk of lung and other cancers up to 30 times, heart attack risk up to 6 times and asthma up to 3 times. In another programme, Dr Abhimanyu Kadapathri, consultant - head and neck surgical oncology, Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, said the most commonly used forms of tobacco include smokeless ones like khaini, gutkha and pan masala while smoking forms include bidi, cigarette and hookah. Experts also highlighted the massive economic burden. Tobacco use cost India nearly Rs 1.78 lakh crore in healthcare expenses in 2017-18 alone. This accounts for about 1% of the country's GDP. Prof Ved Prakash warned, "Every puff of smoke takes you a step closer to death. There is no safe form or amount of tobacco. We urge people to stop now and choose a healthier life."
Hans India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
‘Shashtipoorthi' review: A heartfelt family drama rooted in values and emotions
Veteran actor Dr. Rajendra Prasad leads the charge in Shashtipoorthi, a touching family drama that delves into the emotional complexities of familial bonds and traditional values. Directed by Pawan Prabha and produced by Rupesh under MAA AAIE Productions, the film also stars Archana, Rupesh, and Akanksha Singh in pivotal roles. Released on May 30, let's see how the film fares at box-office. Story: Shashtipoorthi unfolds around a deeply emotional and value-rich narrative that seems tailor-made for Rajendra Prasad. The story, set against the backdrop of a modern Indian family, explores interpersonal relationships, love, and generational values. The plot weaves through poignant moments of connection, self-discovery, and emotional reconciliation. A romantic subplot also adds depth, offering a sensitive and realistic portrayal of love — something rarely seen in recent cinema. Performances: Rajendra Prasad is outstanding, embodying his role with grace and authenticity. Archana delivers yet another powerful performance that anchors the emotional arc of the film. Rupesh and Akanksha Singh complement the leads well, offering earnest and compelling portrayals. The chemistry and nuanced acting by the entire cast contribute significantly to the film's emotional impact. Technicalities: Director Pawan Prabha makes the film stands out as a message-driven story crafted with simplicity and sincerity. His writing and direction are sensitive and grounded, drawing from relevant societal themes. Music legend Ilaiyaraaja's score elevates the film's emotional resonance. His compositions, including a soulful track sung by Yuvan Shankar Raja, are memorable and fitting. The songs, especially those rooted in classical aesthetics, complement the story beautifully. Thota Tharani's art direction deserves a special mention — his visuals add texture and depth, making the world of Shashtipoorthi feel authentic and vibrant. The production design and visual tone are subtle yet effective. Analysis: Shashtipoorthi is a rare gem — a clean, message-oriented family film that avoids unnecessary commercial gimmicks. It celebrates the essence of relationships and traditions without veering into melodrama. The cast and crew should be appreciated for their sincere storytelling and performances. In an era of spectacle-driven cinema, Shashtipoorthi serves as a reminder that genuine emotions, strong performances, and meaningful storytelling can still strike a chord. A must-watch for those who cherish rooted, heartfelt cinema. Rating: 3/5
The Hindu
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Congress accuses BJP of undermining local governance in Rajasthan
The Opposition Congress on Wednesday (May 28, 2025) accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Rajasthan of systematically weakening the urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions - first by invoking the need for delimitation and subsequently by citing the ongoing survey for identifying Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The party alleged that the BJP's slogan of 'one State, one election' was merely a political gimmick. The Rajasthan High Court had, on May 23, directed the State government not to issue a notification regarding the redrawn boundaries of village panchayats until a high-level committee submitted its findings on objections raised by more than 40 petitioners. The petitioners have argued that the delimitation process violated established guidelines. Meanwhile, a Cabinet Sub-Committee held two days of meetings, on Tuesday and Wednesday, to review proposals for the delimitation of municipal bodies across all seven administrative divisions. 'The delimitation process will make urban administration people-oriented and improve transparency and accountability,' Minister of State for Urban Development Jhabar Singh Kharra, who is the Sub-Committee's convenor, said. However, large sections of the public, along with the petitioners, have voiced concern over the lack of transparency in how villages are being added or removed during the reorganisation exercise. In several instances, relatively less populated and underdeveloped villages are being proposed as new panchayat headquarters, raising questions about the availability of land and infrastructure. Petitioners have also alleged that infrastructure-poor regions are being prioritised over more developed and populous villages in the reorganisation process. Responding to these concerns in court, Advocate General Rajendra Prasad said that the proposals remain at a 'preliminary stage'. The Congress further criticised the BJP government for the continued postponement of local body and panchayat elections. The State administration had dissolved nine of the 17 districts that were carved out during the previous Congress-led government on December 28, 2024. Though eight new districts were endorsed by the current regime, the process of establishing new zila parishads, panchayat samitis, and gram panchayats remains incomplete. Welcoming the High Court's interim stay, Leader of the Opposition Tika Ram Jully, speaking at a Samvidhan Bachao rally in Malpura, said, 'The BJP government had proposed reorganisation of panchayats through the Collectors, while ignoring the objections raised by the general public. This entire chakravyuh [trap] of the BJP in the name of 'one State, one election' is a stunt to please its political masters sitting in Delhi.' Byelections to fill vacant positions in municipal bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions - including ward members, panches, and sarpanches - are now scheduled for June 8. Earlier this week, the State government appointed a chairperson and members to the State OBC Commission to fulfil a Supreme Court-mandated requirement for conducting an OBC survey before extending reservation benefits in the local body polls. 'No work was done in one-and-a-half years since the BJP government took over. The Commission has been given three months' time for conducting the OBC survey, which is nearly impossible,' Pradesh Congress Committee president Govind Singh Dotasra said. He alleged that the ruling party's real intent was to stall elections and bypass constitutional mandates through 'arbitrary decisions' affecting democratic institutions.
Hans India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Veteran actor Dr Rajendra Prasad shares insights ahead of ‘Shashtipoorthi' release
Veteran actor Natakiriti Dr. Rajendra Prasad is all set to star in the upcoming film Shashtipoorthi, produced by Rupeysh under the MAA AAIE Productions banner and directed by Pavan Prabha. The film, featuring Archana, Rupeysh, and Aakanksha Singh, is scheduled for release on May 30. During the recent pre-release event, Dr. Rajendra Prasad expressed his gratitude to fans for 48 years of support and shared his thoughts on the film and his career. He described Shashtipoorthi as a deeply satisfying movie that reflects Telugu culture and family values, highlighting the importance of celebrating life's milestones like the 60th wedding anniversary. The actor also praised the film's music, composed by Ilaiyaraaja and featuring lyrics by Keeravani and Chaitanya Prasad. Reflecting on his long career, Rajendra Prasad emphasized his focus on comedy roles and delivering memorable characters. He acknowledged the changing landscape of filmmaking but remains passionate about his craft and optimistic about future projects, with 11 films currently underway. The actor believes Shashtipoorthi combines humor and emotion, promising to make audiences laugh, cry, and appreciate their parents with renewed love.
Hans India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
‘Shashtipoorthi' promises emotions, values & a fresh love story: Rupeysh
'Shashtipoorthi' promises emotions, values & a fresh love story: Rupeysh Rupeysh, stepping into dual roles as both lead actor and producer, is set to present Shashtipoorthi, a film deeply rooted in family values and emotional storytelling. Directed by Pavan Prabha under the MAA AAIE Productions banner, the film is scheduled for release on May 30. The cast features seasoned actor Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Archana, and Aakanksha Singh in key roles. Speaking to the media, Rupeysh highlighted the rarity of such emotionally driven scripts in today's cinema, stating, 'I was drawn to the story because of its genuine emotional depth. Despite enjoying the production process, acting gave me greater satisfaction.' Shashtipoorthi is a fictional narrative, yet Rupeysh believes audiences will deeply connect with its characters and emotions. The story, written for Rajendra Prasad, demanded a fresh face for the role of his son—leading to Rupeysh taking on the part. He also praised the film's musical score by maestro Ilaiyaraaja, noting, 'His involvement elevated the project. Contrary to rumours, he was completely supportive and gave us multiple options for each song.' He credited lyricist Chaitanya Prasad and MM Keeravani for enabling this collaboration. The film boasts contributions from renowned technicians, including art director Thota Tharani. 'Our aim was to bring in experienced professionals. Though the budget exceeded our plan, the result is visible on screen,' Rupeysh shared. Adding a romantic dimension, Aakanksha Singh plays a pivotal role in what Rupeysh describes as 'a simple, sensible love story.' With strong backing through non-theatrical rights, Shashtipoorthi is gearing up for a wide release, with plans for an overseas release based on local reception.
