Rashmika Mandanna takes on the monumental role of Maratha queen Yesubai Bhonsale in the highly anticipated historical drama Chhaava, sharing the screen with Vicky Kaushal, who portrays Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film’s grand trailer launch on January 22 at Mumbai’s iconic Plaza Theatre showcased the cinematic spectacle to come, leaving Mandanna herself visibly moved.

Overwhelmed by the opportunity, Mandanna expressed her profound gratitude and jokingly declared her readiness for retirement after this career-defining role. “It is an honour. From a girl coming from the South to play Maharani Yesubai is the most privileged and special thing I could ask for in this lifetime,” she shared, her voice thick with emotion.

The weight of portraying such a significant historical figure was palpable, as she confessed the trailer itself brought her to tears. “I tell Laxman sir that after this, I am happy to retire,” she added, highlighting the immense responsibility and impact of the role. Her admiration for Kaushal was also evident, describing him simply as “God” in his portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj.

The journey to embodying Yesubai Bhonsale was one of both excitement and apprehension. Mandanna recounted her initial shock at director Laxman Utekar’s offer, questioning how he could even consider her for such a pivotal part. “I remember being absolutely shocked how did Laxman sir even think of giving me a role like this to play? I just surrendered,” she explained.

The challenge was further amplified by the lack of direct references for portraying such a majestic and influential historical personality. She emphasized the importance of surrendering to the director’s vision and the rigorous preparation involved, particularly mastering the nuances of the language. Extensive rehearsals and unwavering dedication were key to bringing the character to life, she stressed.

Chhaava, a Maddock Films production with music composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman, boasts an ensemble cast including Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, Neil Bhoopalam, Santosh Juvekar, and Pradeep Rawat. The film is slated to hit theatres on February 14th, 2025, a strategic release timed to precede Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti on February 19th.

With its impressive cast, stunning visuals, and compelling narrative of a powerful historical period, Chhaava promises a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences.

Mamta Kulkarni, a prominent Bollywood actress of the 1990s, has embarked on a transformative journey, embracing a new life as a Sadhvi (Hindu ascetic) and assuming the esteemed position of Mahamandaleshwar within the Kinnar Akhara, a monastic order dedicated to the transgender community.

This significant shift in her life culminated on Friday at the Mahakumbh Mela, a massive Hindu pilgrimage. There, she officially took sanyaas (renunciation), receiving blessings from Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Dr. Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi following a detailed hour-long discussion about her spiritual path and commitment.

Now known as Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri, she is readily identifiable in her adopted saffron robes and Rudraksha garland. Videos circulating on social media platforms vividly capture her in this new spiritual guise, reflecting her complete transformation. The transition wasn’t sudden; according to Tripathi, Kulkarni had been in close contact with the Kinnar Akhara for a year and a half, signifying a period of contemplation and preparation before this public declaration.

The appointment, however, has been shrouded in a degree of secrecy by the Kinnar Akhara. Following the ceremony, Kulkarni and Tripathi met with Ravindra Puri, the President of the All India Akhara Parishad, to discuss her views on religion and her integration into Akhara’s structure. Kulkarni shared her insights, drawing a parallel between her spiritual awakening and a story from the Ramayana, showcasing her understanding of Hindu scriptures.

Kulkarni herself expressed immense joy at participating in the Mahakumbh, emphasizing the profound spiritual significance of the event. Tripathi, in his confirmation of the appointment, stated that the Kinnar Akhara doesn’t restrict its members’ artistic expression, allowing Kulkarni the freedom to pursue devotional roles if she chooses.

The Kinnar Akhara, established in 2015 by Tripathi, has been instrumental in promoting the inclusion and respect of the transgender community within mainstream Indian society. Kulkarni’s decision, viewed against this backdrop, underscores a profound spiritual shift and a commitment to social inclusion within a unique spiritual framework.

Her journey, from the bright lights of Bollywood to the serene path of a Sadhvi, is a compelling narrative of transformation and dedication to a higher purpose. Kulkarni’s past life as a successful actress, starring in films like Karan Arjun, Krantiveer, and China Gate, adds an intriguing dimension to this extraordinary life change.

A shocking video shared on X depicts a disturbing incident aboard a Korean Air flight: a passenger’s desperate attempt to open an emergency exit door mid-flight. The footage captures the raw fear and tension as the man struggles against the efforts of several flight attendants who bravely intervene to subdue him.

His actions caused immediate alarm among fellow passengers, many of whom likely feared for their lives as the man’s erratic behaviour threatened the safety of everyone on board. The video vividly portrays the chaotic scene: flight attendants rushing to the man, grappling with him, and finally managing to restrain him, preventing what could have been a catastrophic outcome. Their quick thinking and decisive action undoubtedly prevented a potential tragedy.

This incident underscores a concerning trend. It wasn’t an isolated event; on November 8th, another unruly passenger on a Korean Air flight from Bangkok to Seoul attempted a similar act, reaching for an emergency exit door approximately an hour into the five-and-a-half-hour journey. While details surrounding the Bangkok incident remain somewhat scant, it shared the chilling similarity of a passenger ignoring safety protocols and jeopardizing the safety of all on board.

The November incident involved a male passenger seated in a crew-only jumpseat, adding a layer of complexity to the situation. Reports indicate that he exhibited non-compliant behaviour, including verbal aggression and threatening gestures, before being restrained by the crew.

Both incidents highlight the crucial role of well-trained flight attendants in maintaining air safety. Their swift and decisive responses, in both the recently filmed incident and the November event, underscore the importance of comprehensive safety training and protocols for handling unruly passengers. Korean Air has confirmed both incidents, emphasizing the successful implementation of its safety procedures and reassuring the public that no one was harmed in either situation.

The airline reiterated its commitment to prioritizing passenger safety and maintaining strict adherence to all in-flight regulations. However, these incidents raise serious questions about passenger behaviour, potentially highlighting the need for improved screening procedures or strategies for identifying and managing potentially disruptive passengers before flights depart. The videos circulating online serve as stark reminders of the vulnerabilities inherent in air travel and the vital importance of both passenger responsibility and the professionalism of airline staff.