A seemingly casual selfie shared by BJP MP Jay Panda featuring Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on a flight has stirred speculation yet again, prompting an immediate clarification from Tharoor. The BJP leader posted the image with a cheeky caption suggesting that they were “finally travelling in the same direction”, fuelling political chatter online.

“My friend & fellow traveler called me mischievous for saying that we seem to be finally travelling in the same direction,” Panda wrote in a post on X.

In response, Shashi Tharoor quickly clarified that the encounter was coincidental, stating he was en route to attend the Kalinga Literature Festival in Bhubaneswar, and would be returning the very next day

“Fellow traveller only to Bhubaneswar! I am addressing the Kalinga LitFest tomorrow morning. And coming right back,” he posted.

Background: Tharoor’s recent praise for rivals sparked internal row

The selfie follows recent controversies around Tharoor’s remarks praising the Kerala LDF government’s economic handling, which had earlier led to discomfort within the Congress leadership. His comments had drawn criticism from party colleagues, who accused him of projecting a “distorted” political narrative.

Tharoor had later toned down his earlier remarks, particularly after a report surfaced stating that over 42,000 MSMEs had shut down in Kerala in the past nine years.

The situation escalated when Tharoor, during a podcast, said he had “other options” if the Congress no longer needed his service. Though he clarified that he was not referring to political alternatives, it triggered fresh debates about his loyalty within party ranks.

Adding to the mix, a selfie shared with Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan—the face of the Congress’s rival LDF—added to the speculation. The Congress central leadership later tried to dispel rumours of a rift by sharing visuals of party unity, including a post by Rahul Gandhi affirming that they “stand as one.”

This latest episode shows Tharoor’s caution in managing public perception amidst ongoing internal scrutiny, as he seeks to maintain balance between his individual outreach and party expectations.

On the occasion of Bihar Diwas 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar conveyed their heartfelt greetings to the people of Bihar, celebrating the state’s historic legacy, cultural richness, and aspirations for a prosperous future.

In a post on X, PM Modi called Bihar the “holy land of heroes and great personalities,” paying tribute to its role in Indian history and cultural tradition. He also lauded the state’s ongoing development journey, attributing its progress to the hardworking and talented people of Bihar.

“We will leave no stone unturned for the all-round development of this state, which has been the centre of our culture and tradition,” the Prime Minister wrote.

Amit Shah hails Bihar’s leadership across history

Extending his wishes on Bihar Day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah acknowledged Bihar’s immense contributions to both ancient and modern India, describing it as a land of knowledge, tradition, and cultural heritage.

He praised Bihar’s role in providing leadership and energy to the country, and reiterated the NDA government’s commitment to Bihar’s progress, prosperity, and self-reliance under PM Modi’s leadership.

“Bihar has left its indelible mark in every field,” Shah noted in his message.

Nitish Kumar reaffirms commitment to Bihar’s development

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also marked the occasion with a message of unity and progress. He reflected on the state’s glorious past and urged citizens to be part of building a glorious future.

“We are currently preparing a glorious future for Bihar with our determination,” he stated, encouraging collective efforts for a developed Bihar.

Celebrating Bihar Diwas

Bihar Diwas is celebrated annually on March 22, marking the formation of the state in 1912. The day is a tribute to Bihar’s cultural legacy, historic influence, and the resilience of its people. Celebrations across the state included cultural programs, public events, and tributes to Bihar’s contribution to Indian society.

On the occasion of Earth Hour, which coincided with World Water Day on Saturday, March 22, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu called on citizens to contribute actively towards protecting the planet through individual actions.

In a message posted on X, Naidu highlighted the global spirit of Earth Hour, a movement that brings together millions of people for 60 minutes to support and celebrate the Earth. He described the alignment of Earth Hour with World Water Day as a “meaningful overlap”, emphasizing the importance of both energy and water conservation as two vital pillars of sustainability.

Government initiatives for a sustainable future

Underscoring the state’s commitment to sustainable development, Naidu noted that the Government of Andhra Pradesh (GoAP) has incorporated water security and fuel cost optimisation into the guiding principles of its Swarna Andhra @ 2047 vision plan. This long-term roadmap aims to ensure a resource-efficient and environmentally responsible Andhra Pradesh by the year 2047.

While highlighting the government’s efforts, Naidu stressed the need for collective responsibility. He urged individuals to do their part, saying that even small actions can lead to big changes in the journey toward a greener future.

As Earth Hour and World Water Day shine a spotlight on pressing environmental challenges, the Chief Minister’s message reiterates the need for both policy-level action and grassroots participation in safeguarding natural resources for future generations.