Bichraj School of Art and Culture Felicitates Actor-Director Nilamani Sahoo During Grand 10th Anniversary Celebration

Bichraj School of Art and Culture

Bhubaneswar: The Bichraj School of Art and Culture, a premier institution dedicated to the promotion of dance and culture in Odisha, celebrated its 10th anniversary with great enthusiasm and artistic fervor at Bhanja Kala Mandap, Kalpana Square, Bhubaneswar. The landmark event, held on July 20, drew a vibrant crowd of artists, students, parents, and dignitaries, making it a memorable cultural evening for the city.

Bichraj School of Art and Culture

The highlight of the evening was the felicitation of veteran Odia film personality, Nilamani Sahoo—an acclaimed actor, director, and producer—with the prestigious “Bichraj Sanman.” The award recognized his immense contribution to the Odia film industry and his continued influence on aspiring artists across the state.

The event commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony in front of the idol of Lord Jagannath, symbolizing a spiritual start to the celebrations. The school’s management team warmly welcomed and felicitated the distinguished guests present on stage. Among the eminent personalities in attendance were Prasanna Kumar Patasani, former Member of Parliament, and Priyadarshi Mishra, MLA of Bhubaneswar North, along with several stalwarts from Odisha’s cultural and artistic fraternity.

As the evening unfolded, students of the school presented a series of dazzling dance performances, showcasing classical, semi-classical, and contemporary forms. The stage came alive with rhythm, color, and passion as young talents demonstrated the school’s commitment to nurturing artistic excellence.

A particularly moving moment came when a group of students’ fathers presented a thematic dance drama based on the Mahabharata. Their powerful storytelling, synchronized choreography, and emotional depth earned thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the audience.

Bichraj School of Art and Culture

Not to be outdone, the mothers of the students enchanted the gathering with their performance based on devotional songs dedicated to Lord Krishna, highlighting the spiritual ethos of Indian dance. The show also featured a breathtaking Odissi recital by a student, reflecting the rich classical heritage of Odisha.

The school also took the opportunity to honor and appreciate those who have contributed to its journey over the past decade. Felicitations were extended to dance teachers, judges of the fashion and art competitions, and distinguished alumni who have made their mark in various fields. Many of these alumni returned to the stage to deliver mesmerizing dance performances, rekindling memories and inspiring the current generation of students.

Throughout the evening, there was an unmistakable sense of pride and joy among the Bichraj community. What made the night even more magical was the participation of parents and teachers, whose involvement and performances added a deeply personal and emotional dimension to the celebration.

As the curtains fell on a night of electric performances, heartfelt tributes, and artistic brilliance, the Bichraj School of Art and Culture reaffirmed its position as a beacon of cultural education and community bonding in Odisha.

New SharePoint Exploit Triggers Urgent Security Alert

Satnam Narang, Sr. Staff Research Engineer at Tenable

“The active exploitation of the SharePoint zero-day vulnerability over the weekend will have far-reaching consequences for those organisations that were affected. Attackers were able to exploit the flaw, now identified as CVE-2025-53770, to steal MachineKey configuration details from vulnerable SharePoint Servers, which include both a validationKey and a decryptionKey. These details can be used by attackers to create specially crafted requests that could be used to gain unauthenticated remote code execution. Organisations that may have been impacted could identify potential exploitation by searching for indicators of compromise, including a file created on the vulnerable servers called spinstall0.aspx, though it may include some other file extension. The attack surface for this vulnerability is large, at over 9,000 externally accessible SharePoint servers, and it is used by a variety of organisations. Patches have started to roll out late on July 20, including fixes for SharePoint Server 2019 and SharePoint Subscription Edition. A patch for SharePoint Server 2016 is not yet available but is expected to be released soon. We strongly advise organisations to begin conducting incident response investigations to identify potential compromise, otherwise, apply the available patches and review the mitigation instructions provided by Microsoft.” 

L&T Finance Posts INR 701 Cr PAT in Q1FY26 Results

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) records consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 701 Crore for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025 (Q1FY26), up 10% Quarter-on-Quarter (QoQ) and 2% Year-on-Year (YoY), while also achieving its highest-ever consolidated book of Rs. 1,02,314 Crore, which includes a retail book of Rs. 99,816 Crore, up 15% and 18% YoY respectively

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India has recorded consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 701 Crore, up 10% QoQ and 2% YoY for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025. During the quarter, LTF achieved a milestone of highest-ever consolidated book of Rs. 1,02,314 Crore, up 15% YoY. The retail book size during the quarter reached Rs. 99,816 Crore, up 18% YoY. The Company has recorded quarterly retail disbursement of Rs. 17,522 Crore for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025, up 18% YoY. Retailisation stood at 98% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, exceeding Lakshya 2026 target.

Debut Investment Grade Credit Rating has been assigned to LTF by international rating agencies (S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings). S&P Global Ratings has assigned LTF “BBB-” long-term and “A-3” short-term issuer credit rating. The outlook on the long-term rating is Positive. Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF long-term foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDR) of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. These long-term ratings are investment grade and are at par with India’s Sovereign Credit Rating. This will enable the Company to tap global capital markets and further diversify its liability franchise and deepen investor base.

‘Project Cyclops’, in-house developed proprietary credit underwriting engine by LTF, has been rolled-out for SME Finance and its advanced version is implemented in Two-wheeler Finance.

The Company’s customer-facing PLANET app, which has emerged as a powerful digital channel for customers, crossed more than 1.86 Crore downloads as on date, comprising more than 16.7 Lakh downloads on the rural side. As of date, this channel has done collections of over Rs. 4,800 Crore while servicing around 7.85 Crore requests and has sourced loans of over Rs. 15,500 Crore. The Company has launched a revamped customer-centric website and the next-generation PLANET 3.0.

Commenting on the financial results, Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF said, “In a challenging quarter, our Company remained focused on outcomes and achieved a resilient performance while showcasing our ability to manage market headwinds. This performance is on the back of our commitment to sourcing creditworthy customers backed by technology and robust credit guardrails, while keeping a strong focus on collection efficiency across businesses. Our impetus remains on risk calibrated business growth with a sharp focus on a strong asset quality, laying the foundation for a sustainable and predictable growth going forward.

In the quarter, we achieved the highest-ever consolidated book of over Rs. 1 Lakh Crore milestone and added a secured high yield product to our loan portfolio i.e., Gold Loan. Our company has been assigned a debut investment grade credit rating of “BBB-/Positive” by S&P Global Ratings and “BBB-/Stable” by Fitch Ratings. This rating will serve as a foundation for further diversifying our liability franchise by accessing financing opportunities across the global capital markets. Our AI-driven next-gen digital credit engine, ‘Project Cyclops’ is starting to yield early dividends in our Two-wheeler finance business, and during the quarter, ‘Project Cyclops’ was scaled up in Farm business and launched in the SME finance business. We remain focused on continuously strengthening our risk and credit frameworks, which will serve us well in times to come.”

Traya and Sunil Grover Bust Hair Loss Myth in New Brand Film Inspired by a Real Customer Transformation

Mumbai, July 21, 2025 — Traya, India’s leading science-backed hair loss solutions brand, has launched a compelling new brand film featuring acclaimed actor and comedian Sunil Grover. Inspired by the true story of a Traya customer, the film tackles one of the most widely believed myths about hair loss: “Once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.”

At the heart of the film is a relatable and emotional narrative: a young man hears the age-old line “Baal ek baar gye toh wapas nahi aate” from a skeptical uncle, echoing the disbelief that surrounds hair regrowth treatments in India. It highlights a deeply held social belief — that hair loss is irreversible — one reinforced by the fatigue of trying ineffective solutions time and again. But the twist comes when Sunil Grover, playing a sharp-eyed observer, points out something that shuts down the skepticism: the hero now has better hair than he did in his old wedding photo, a reference that aims to drive home the fact that with the right approach and treatment, hair regrowth IS possible.

The story draws directly from the real experience of Nikhil, a Traya user, who shared: “I look better now than I did in my wedding photos. Losing hair isn’t easy—it took a toll on me for years. I remember hiding under a cap to cover my scalp. But today, I look better, feel better, and I couldn’t be happier. And it’s all thanks to Traya. I’ve regained my confidence and my youth.”

His transformation was made possible through Traya’s holistic, doctor-led treatment, rooted in Ayurveda, Dermatology and Nutrition.

“This campaign is about breaking the cycle of hopelessness that so many people feel when they experience hair loss and rewriting a belief that has held so many hostage. Nikhil’s story isn’t just inspiring, it’s proof that the right approach works. It is a reminder that when we look at hair loss as an internal problem rather than a cosmetic issue, real results can be achieved. We didn’t want fiction. We wanted honesty,” said Saloni Anand, Co-founder of Traya.

Confident and compelling, the new brand film underscores Traya’s science-backed promise of real, sustainable results. Amid the clutter and chaos of quick fixes and marketing trends, Traya’s new brand film cuts through with clarity and confidence.

The film is currently live on Traya’s digital channels, including YouTube and Instagram. With a blend of humor, emotion, and authenticity, the campaign speaks to a generation that’s tired of empty promises — and ready for results.

IPRS Brings ‘My Music My Rights’ to Sambalpur, Honours Rangabati Lyricist Padmashree Gountia

New Delhi , 21 July – In a historic step toward protecting the creative legacy of India’s folk music community, The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS) is bringing its ‘My Music My Rights’ initiative to Sambalpur on July 26, 2025 at the Sambalpur Kala Parishad, Odisha. The copyright and royalty awareness workshop is set to honour Padmashree Mitrabhanu Gountia, the legendary lyricist behind one of India’s most beloved folk songs—“Rangabati.” He is a humble schoolteacher from Bilung village (now renamed Rangabati Bilung in his honour).

The event will be supported by INRECO (The Indian Record Manufacturing Company Ltd.), the Kolkata-based heritage music label that recorded and released Rangabati in 1979. Known for preserving and promoting Indian folk, classical, and regional sounds for over 100 years, INRECO played a pivotal role in giving Rangabati its national and global reach.

It was in 1963, with the opening of All India Radio in Sambalpur, that Gountia took a personal vow to write only in his mother tongue, Sambalpuri. Inspired by the words of poet Gangadhar Meher—If you want to become great, first make your mother tongue great—he went on to write over 1,000 songs, capturing the rhythm, sorrow, and soul of his land.

“I am an ardent worshipper of my mother tongue and have dedicated my life to the cause of Sambalpuri native literature,” says Gountia. “That stubbornness is not mine alone—it exists in every poet and writer of the soil of Western Odisha. We toil with determination. As the purity of gold is tested by touchstone, so is the quality of a creator known by time.”

The release of Rangabati in 1979 by INRECO marked a turning point in Indian folk music. First aired in 1978 on AIR Sambalpur, the song quickly became a cultural phenomenon—played at weddings, sung at fairs, and featured in Telugu cinema (Sri Ram, 2002), Bollywood (Kaun Kitne Paani Mein, 2015), and was showcased at the Republic Day tableau (2007), Radio Moscow, BBC London, the World Water Forum in South Korea, and performed live by Shankar Mahadevan at the 2017 Asian Athletics Championship in Bhubaneswar.

Yet, despite its popularity, the creators of Rangabati were often left out of commercial adaptations and not credited correctly in some instances. The workshop seeks to address this very gap—between fame and formal protection.

“Creators should not have to fight legal battles to claim what is rightfully theirs. They should be protected from the start,” said Mr. Rakesh Nigam CEO IPRS. “Folk music shouldn’t just be remembered—it should be respected, protected, and duly rewarded.”

Through this initiative, IPRS aims to ensure that folk creators—often ignorant about music rights and royalties—are equipped to understand and protect their creation. The workshop will feature sessions on:

  • Copyright basics and the role of societies like IPRS in safeguarding the rights of authors,

composers and publishers

  • Music Licensing and royalty mechanism
  • On-ground membership enrolment queries with IPRS
  • Helpdesk to resolve queries and provide tailored guidance

As Indian folk music continues to echo across global stages, initiatives like ‘My Music My Rights’ are vital to ensure that the voices behind the verses are heard, honoured, and empowered. This event marks not just a celebration of heritage, but a movement toward recognition, rightful ownership, and fair remuneration for India’s folk creators.

Labubu Comes to Life at Infiniti Mall, Malad… A Weekend of Fun for Kids and Families

Mumbai, 21st July 2025: Infiniti Mall, Mumbai’s premier shopping, entertainment, and leisure destination, is all set to welcome the beloved character Labubu for a fun-filled weekend of creativity, performances, and interactive activities at Infiniti Mall, Malad.

From social media feeds to collector shelves, Labubu is becoming a pop culture sensation winning hearts with its quirky expressions, playful charm, and unique aesthetic. Loved by kids, teens, and even adults, Labubu has captured the imagination of a generation, making every appearance a buzzworthy moment. Whether it’s through collectibles, themed content, or fun activities, Labubu’s growing popularity shows no signs of slowing down.

Building on this excitement, Infiniti Mall has curated a special line-up of events on 26th and 27th July to bring the magic of Labubu to life:

1. Puppet Show / Décor My Doll Curator :

Step into a world of creativity with the Puppet Show and Décor My Doll Curator zone. Kids can let their imaginations soar as they decorate and personalize their very own dolls, while enjoying whimsical puppet stories unfold live. With vibrant setups and engaging storytelling, it’s a hands-on experience designed to delight young minds.

2. Group Dance Performance :

Catch the beat and feel the energy as talented young performers light up the stage with high-energy group dance performances. From upbeat music to funky styles and energetic moves, this spectacle is sure to get the audience clapping, grooving, and cheering along..

With Labubu making a special appearance and a lineup of creative and cultural fun, Infiniti Mall’s Labubu Event promises an unforgettable weekend for families and kids alike!

Kokand University, Andijan Launched for Indian Students in a Special Ceremony Held in India

New Delhi, 21st July, 2025: In a strategic move to offer Indian students global avenues in medical education, Kokand University, Andijan (Uzbekistan), was formally introduced to the Indian academic landscape during an exclusive launch event held in India. The initiative is supported by the GTTCI Trade Chamber to promote cross-border educational collaboration.

university2

With the vision of the President of Uzbekistan to position the country as a hub for Indian medical students, the university is building a dedicated Indian Medical City in Andijan, spread over 55 acres. This facility is specially designed to cater to Indian students, offering a curriculum aligned with the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines and taught by both international and Indian faculty.

The event in India served as an official introduction to the university’s offerings, showcasing its infrastructure, curriculum, and student support systems to prospective Indian students and stakeholders. The university aims to blend international quality standards with Indian academic sensibilities—ensuring that students benefit from a secure, affordable, and culturally familiar environment.

The collaboration has been strongly supported by Dr. Rashmi Saluja, Chairperson of GTTCI, and the leadership of Kokand University. Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, under the leadership of Dr. Ajay Swaroop, has also extended its support to the initiative. Speaking at the launch, on behalf of Dr. Swaroop, Dr. Katoch conveyed, “India and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital stand firmly committed to supporting this transformative journey. We are proud to be partners in this shared vision to build a world-class academic and healthcare infrastructure that will not only empower Indian students but also enhance the healthcare landscape of Uzbekistan.”

Admissions are now open for Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS in a globally connected yet culturally rooted setting.

Petrol Sale in Bottles Banned Starting Immediately

Balasore,21st July 2025: Starting tomorrow, petrol will not be sold in bottles. The decision was taken by the association in response to the Balasore incident. A meeting of the Petroleum Dealers’ Association was held yesterday regarding the issue. As per regulations, fuel can only be dispensed into vehicle tanks or official containers. Therefore, under no circumstances will fuel be sold in bottles. In extreme emergency situations, petrol may be given upon submission of an Aadhaar card. The association has decided to implement this rule immediately in Balasore district. This was confirmed by the President of the Petroleum Dealers’ Association.

Nabarangpur Celebrates World Youth Skills Day with Enthusiasm

Nabarangpur:21st July 2025: World Youth Skills Day 2025 was celebrated today at the premises of B.Ed. College, Nabarangpur, under the auspices of the District Skill Development and Employment Department. Nearly 500 NCC cadets from high school and college levels across various parts of the district participated in the training camp organized as part of the observance.

District Collector Dr. Subhankar Mahapatra attended the event as the chief guest. Among other dignitaries present on the dais were:

Additional District Collector (Revenue) Bishwalit Barman,

NCC Commanding Officer Sunil Kumar,

D.I.P.R. officer Manoj Kumar Behera,

Principal of Umarkote ITI Sanjay Thakur, and

Principal of Chanda Handi ITI Pranab Panda.

District Skill Development and Employment Officer Anand Dalei addressed the gathering, explaining the purpose of the celebration in detail. He emphasized the importance of youth making consistent efforts to enhance their skills, receive quality training, and effectively utilize digital knowledge. Special focus was placed on modern work methods, artificial intelligence, and technical education.

Collector Dr. Subhankar Mahapatra provided insightful information and guidance to the NCC cadets on skill development. He encouraged them to work hard and adopt contemporary technology and practical skills relevant to the present era.

As part of the program, painting and quiz competitions on the theme of skill development were conducted among the NCC cadets. The winners were awarded by the chief guest.

The event was smoothly hosted and moderated by NCC cadets Priyanka Panigrahi, Udipta Nayak, and Ankita Das. The entire program was conducted with the support and cooperation of staff from the 13(O) NCC Battalion.

MLA Lashes Out Over MGNREGA Irregularities at Panchayat Samiti Meeting

 Nandahandi, 21st July 2025: A Panchayat Samiti meeting was held in the conference hall of the Nandahandi Block Office in Nabarangpur district. The meeting was attended by Nabarangpur MLA Gauri Shankar Majhi as the chief guest. Discussions covered multiple departments, during which the MLA strongly criticized departmental officers and staff over alleged corruption in the MGNREGA scheme and neglect in drain cleaning.

The meeting was chaired by Group Development Officer Kshirod Chandra Sahu. Among others present were:

Zilla Parishad Member Arun Kumar Mishra

Block Chairperson Rashmita Majhi

Vice-Chairperson Sadan Gauda

Tahasildar Chandra Das Mahanandia

Assistant Executive Engineer Shankar Budek

MP Representative Janaki Kant Bishoi

Sarpanches and Samiti members from all 11 panchayats also attended the meeting. Representatives from various departments such as Agriculture, Horticulture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Child Development, Food Supplies, Soil Conservation, Forest, Police, Excise, Rural Development, Skill Training Centers, Electricity, Rural and Drinking Water Supply were also present.

During the meeting:

Departmental officers responded to questions and concerns raised by the MLA and panchayat representatives with data and facts.

Problems were discussed with the aim of finding actionable solutions.

Particular dissatisfaction was expressed over the working style of Jay Prakash Mishra, the department engineer responsible for rural water supply and sanitation. Despite repeated reports of issues, no effective steps had been taken.

It was noted that officers from three key departments—Swachh Bharat Mission (Clean India), Health, and Lift Irrigation—were absent from the meeting.