Dev Joshi, the beloved actor renowned for his portrayal of Baal Veer in the popular television series, has announced his engagement to his partner, Aarti, marking a significant and joyous milestone in his life. The announcement was made with a captivating photograph showcasing the couple’s shared happiness, quickly followed by a heartwarming video and additional images that instantly captivated fans.

The video, while keeping their faces subtly concealed, beautifully depicted the couple holding hands and displaying their engagement rings before a Lord Ganesha idol. This symbolic gesture underscored their seeking of divine blessings as they embarked on this new chapter together. Dev’s accompanying caption perfectly captured the emotion: “And we decided on forever! Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and countless beautiful memories together. #Engaged #ForeverStartsNow #DevAarti”

A subsequent post revealed a touching photograph of Dev and Aarti at Nepal’s Kamakshya Temple, the apparent location of their engagement. Clad in red shawls and adorned with rudraksha malas, the couple exuded a spiritual aura, emphasizing the significance of their union. The simple yet profound caption, “Together, in faith, love and life!” perfectly encapsulated the sentiment.

The announcement sparked an outpouring of congratulations from fans and former co-stars, flooding the comments sections with well wishes and excitement for the happy couple. Dev’s impressive career, beginning with a role in Mahima Shani Dev Ki and culminating in leading roles in Kashi – Ab Na Rahe Tera Kagaz Kora and Baalveer Returns, showcases his versatility and talent. His memorable portrayal of a teenage Chandrashekhar Azad further solidified his reputation as a skilled and promising actor.

As Dev embarks on this new personal chapter, fans eagerly anticipate his future projects and continue to celebrate his success both on and off-screen. The engagement announcement serves as a testament to his personal growth and happiness, adding another heartwarming layer to his already beloved public image.

Singer Monali Thakur, known for her hit songs like “Sawar Loon” and “Zara Zara Touch Me,” on Thursday addressed widespread concerns about her health following an incident during a concert in Bihar.

Initial reports, circulating rapidly through various news channels, painted a dramatic picture. These reports claimed that Thakur had suffered a sudden episode of breathlessness during her performance at the Dinhata festival, leading to a distressed appearance and an abrupt halt to the show. The accounts further alleged that her team swiftly intervened, seeking immediate medical attention and rushing her to the Dinhata Sub-District Hospital in Cooch Behar.

These reports understandably caused significant alarm among her fans and the public, sparking widespread concern for her well-being. The rapid dissemination of this news, amplified by social media, created a frenzy of speculation and anxiety surrounding the singer’s health. However, Thakur herself took to Instagram Stories to dispel these rumours and offer a personal account of the situation.

In a heartfelt message to her fans and the media, Thakur denied any hospitalization and clarified the circumstances surrounding the incident. She attributed her discomfort to a viral infection that had unfortunately recurred, causing significant sinus issues and intense migraines. The prolonged travel, especially the flights, she explained, had exacerbated her condition, leading to the symptoms she experienced during the performance.

She expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and concern but stressed the importance of verifying information before sharing it, emphasizing the potential for misinformation to cause unnecessary worry and distress.

Thakur explained that while she did indeed feel unwell and needed to pause her performance, she was not in a critical condition requiring immediate hospitalization. She stated that she’s now back in Mumbai, receiving appropriate medical treatment, prioritizing rest, and is on the path to a full recovery. Her message emphasized that she is receiving the necessary care and will soon be back to her usual self.

Thakur’s statement serves as a reminder of the rapid spread of information in the digital age and the potential for misinformation to cause significant distress. It also highlights the importance of verifying news sources and prioritizing factual information before contributing to the spread of unsubstantiated rumours, particularly those concerning an individual’s health. She concluded her message with a plea for everyone to focus on more significant matters and expressed her sincere gratitude for the ongoing support of her fans.

Gautham Vasudev Menon, a prominent name in Tamil cinema, ventured into the Malayalam film industry with his directorial debut, “Dominic and the Ladies’ Purse,” a mystery thriller that captivated audiences upon its release on January 23. The film, a Mammootty Kampany production, stars the legendary Mammootty in the titular role of Dominic, a private investigator navigating a complex web of intrigue.

The ensemble cast boasts a stellar lineup of actors, including Gokul Suresh, Lena, Siddique, Vijay Babu, and Viji Venkatesh, each adding depth and nuance to their respective characters. Sushmitha Bhatt and Meenakshi Unnikrishnan portray significant roles, alongside Vineeth, Shine Tom Chacko, Wafa Khadeeja, and Harshitha Pisharody, enriching the narrative tapestry. Adding a unique touch, director Gautham Vasudev Menon himself makes a cameo appearance as a police officer.

The film’s production journey began in July 2024, initially known as “Production No: 6.” The official title was unveiled in September 2024, coinciding with the commencement of principal photography in Kochi.

The cinematic experience is enhanced by the skilful contributions of a talented technical team. Darbuka Siva’s music sets the mood, while Vishnu R Dev’s cinematography captures the essence of the narrative. Lewellyn Anthony’s editing brings precision and flow to the film’s pacing.

The production design by Shajie Naduvil creates a visually appealing atmosphere, complemented by the dynamic stunts choreographed by Supreme Sunder and Kalai Kingson. Brinda Master’s choreography, Sameera Saneesh and Abhijith’s costume designs, and the dedication of the sound, VFX, and digital marketing teams contribute to a comprehensive and polished final product.

George Sebastian served as the executive producer, ensuring the smooth execution of the project. Dr. Neeraj Rajan penned the story, collaborating with Dr. Sooraj Rajan and the director on the screenplay and dialogues. Wayfarer Films facilitated the film’s distribution, bringing together an accomplished crew to create a cinematic masterpiece.

Early audience reactions paint a positive picture of the film. Viewers have praised Mammootty’s performance, the gripping storyline, and the thrilling climax, while acknowledging the film’s slower pace, which some viewers might find less engaging. However, the overwhelming response suggests a captivating cinematic experience that will resonate with mystery thriller enthusiasts.

Netizens have reacted to the film. One user said, “Dominic and The Ladies’ Purse is a gripping investigation drama with a GVM vibe. Mammootty shines in the lead, and the Sherlock Holmes nods are a nice touch. The slower pace might not work for everyone, but I liked the realistic approach.”

“This movie starts off lighthearted but ramps up to an intense, thrilling ride. The final 35 – 40 minutes are pure brilliance that’ll stay with you! Go watch it! Can’t go wrong with Dominic! He always pulls through!” another said.