Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group?Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to Namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Bengaluru Local news1. Let's begin with updates from the city. UT Khader, a former minister and five-time Congress MLA from Karnataka, made history as he was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the state Legislative Assembly. This remarkable achievement also marks him as the first Muslim leader to do so. There were no other contenders vying for the post. State Chief Minister Siddaramaiah played a pivotal role by proposing Khader's name for the position, which was then seconded by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.2. In other headlines, following a meeting with senior police officials in Bengaluru, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, accompanied by Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, made a significant statement affirming the state's stance against moral policing. Stressing the importance of impartiality, Siddaramaiah emphasized that law enforcement should not view crimes based on religious biases. He stated, "We must ensure that the police do not engage in moral policing."3. In some more news, Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and BJP State President Nalin Kumar Kateel criticized the ruling Congress' recent declaration of "no saffronisation, no moral policing," labelling it as "polarization politics." Following the swearing-in of Congress leaders Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar as CM and deputy CM, they issued various directives to the police department, instructing them to take firm action against individuals causing social disharmony.4. Up next, Bengaluru has emerged as the best city for fresher salaries. As demand for freshers continues to be strong across cities in 2023, data shows that the garden city is the best paying at ₹5.06 lakh, followed by Delhi NCR at ₹4.48 lakh and Mumbai at ₹4.25 lakh. Bengaluru is also the top location for fresher hiring with the highest salary packages. Notably, fresher hiring was highest in metropolitan cities in India, across all sectors.5. Now, onto other news, the standing committee of the National Board for Wildlife has given a green signal for the construction of the second phase of the greenfield four-lane Bangalore-Chennai Expressway, the Centre’s ambitious 262 km roadway costing over Rs 16,000 crore. The expressway will pass through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, cutting the travel time between the two metropolises by nearly three hours. A wildlife conservation plan for Rs 1,698 lakh will need to be deposited by the agency and 2 percent of the project cost for conserving the elephant habitat to tackle human-elephant conflicts.6. Moving on, according to a study, Bengaluru’s EV fleet is expected to rise to 75,000 to 2.3M by 2030. As per the report published by Bengaluru-based think tank the Centre for Study of Science, Technology, and Policy (CSTEP), Bengaluru traffic is expected to grow by 1.5 times. The findings of the study were filed in the paper titled ‘Bengaluru 2030: Impact of EVs on Vehicular Emissions’ authored by Saad Khan, Spurthi Ravuri, Thirumalai NC. 7. Meanwhile, Karthik Krishnan, a techie residing at the upscale Rainbow Drive Layout off Sarjapur Road, has rented a house at Muthanallur Cross on Sarjapur-Marathahalli Road, to which he will be shifting his family on June 1, paying ₹1.2 lakh a month, as fear of flooding during monsoon looms large. He also moved court against the RWA to raze the wall on the east side of the layout, which the BBMP has termed illegal, as it will increase the volume of the flood.8. On a different note, academicians and writers have urged the newly-elected Congress government to address the contentious revisions made in textbooks during the previous BJP administration in the state. Professor VP Niranjan Aradhya, a fellow and program head at the National Law School of India (NLSI) University in Bengaluru, and the founder of the co-ordination forum of SDMCs (School Development Monitoring Committee) has written a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah outlining these demands. National News1. Moving on to the national news. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, via a video conference, inaugurated Uttarakhand's first Vande Bharat Express, which will operate between Delhi and Dehradun, excluding Wednesdays, with a travel time of 4 hours and 45 minutes. Additionally, PM Modi will also unveil newly electrified rail line segments, resulting in the complete electrification of Uttarakhand's railway network.2. Meanwhile, The Biju Janata Dal has confirmed its participation in the inauguration of the new Parliament building in Delhi on May 28. While 19 opposition parties, including Congress, AAP, and TMC, declared their boycott of the ceremony, the BJD emphasized that constitutional institutions should maintain their sanctity and honour, irrespective of any issues that may arise.3. In more news, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended congratulations to the successful candidates of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, highlighting the achievement of women comprising 34% of the qualifiers. Emphasizing the significance of gender equality, she expressed confidence in a more equitable society, particularly as the top four civil ranks were secured by women. CM Banerjee called upon women to step forward, lead by example, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future.4. Shifting our focus, India is expediting the procurement of armed drones from the US as part of its collaboration with Quad nations for enhanced maritime domain awareness in the Indo-Pacific region. Concurrently, the Indian Navy is working on extending the lease of two Sea Guardian surveillance drones from General Atomics, stationed at the Rajali Naval Base in Tamil Nadu. The effectiveness of the leased drones in providing real-time domain awareness, including monitoring the Chinese build-up along the LAC, has been satisfactory.  International News1. Turning our attention to international news, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked on Wednesday evening, 24th May that his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi's visit has further strengthened the already close and robust relationship between Australia and India. Albanese emphasized the importance of investing in this relationship, highlighting the mutual benefits it brings in terms of trade, investment, business, as well as regional security and stability.2. In ongoing news, Imran Khan, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, expressed concerns about senior leaders from his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party facing pressure to resign. Khan accused the government and military of exerting duress to dismantle his party ahead of the upcoming scheduled elections. Previously, his close aide and former Information Minister, Fawad Chaudhry, had already resigned from the party, adding to the growing tensions within.3. In a recent development, Super Typhoon Mawar has struck the US territory of Guam, causing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread power outages. This typhoon is among the most powerful to impact Guam in recent years. Social media videos depicted the aftermath, including fallen trees, airborne solar panels, and sections of a hotel's exterior wall collapsing to the ground.4. In some other news, A travel ban has been imposed on Lebanon's central bank chief, Riad Salameh, by a Lebanese judge, in response to an Interpol red notice against him. Salameh is facing charges in Lebanon, France, and Germany for allegedly conspiring with his brother to embezzle hundreds of millions of dollars from the central bank and subsequently laundering the funds overseas. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. The United States is at risk of defaulting on its debt in early June, which could have far-reaching implications for global economies. The current debt ceiling, set at $31.4 trillion, was reached on January 19. Republicans are withholding support for raising the debt ceiling unless the Democrat-led government meets their demands, creating a political impasse that heightens the potential for a default.2. In more business news, despite the global economic slowdown, India's services exports are experiencing sustained growth, while goods exports have faced contraction, states Morgan Stanley. The country's services exports have surged to $332 billion in 2023, which is 150% of the $218 billion recorded in 2019. Furthermore, India's share in global services exports has reached an unprecedented high of 4.9%, as highlighted in a recent report by the organization.3. Moving on, according to data from the statistics office, the German economy has entered a recession. In the first quarter of 2023, the gross domestic product (GDP) recorded a 0.3% decline when adjusted for price and calendar effects, following a 0.5% contraction in the fourth quarter of 2022. A recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters of economic decline.4. On the second day of the ₹2,000 notes exchange, some Indian bank branches experienced cash shortages and temporarily suspended the exchange. The higher-than-expected demand for ₹500 and lower denomination currency in certain branches led to scarcity. Customers had to wait until the currency chests were replenished before they could proceed with the exchange process.5. In market news for May 25th, Benchmark indices erased all the intraday losses and trading ended in the green. The Sensex was up 86.17 points or 0.14% at 61,859.95, and the Nifty was up 28.90 points or 0.16% at 18,314.30. About 1637 shares advanced, 1574 shares declined, and 116 shares unchanged. The Indian rupee concluded the session with a slight decrease, settling at 82.74 per dollar, compared to its previous closing rate of 82.67. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Iconic singer Tina Turner, known as the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," has died at the age of 83 in her residence in Küsnacht, Switzerland. She won eight Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 2021 as a solo artist. Turner faced various health challenges in recent years, including cancer, a stroke, and kidney failure.2. In news from the Cannes Film Festival, online images have emerged of filmmaker Anurag Kashyap and actress Sunny Leone at the Cannes for the premiere of their film 'Kennedy' on May 24. Sunny was seen in a daring blush pink gown with a thigh-high slit, while Kashyap opted for a black suit. A video captured Kashyap assisting Leone with her attire. The film also stars Rahul Bhat, who has previously worked with Kashyap in 'Ugly'.3. Meanwhile, clothing retailer Gap has filed a $2-million lawsuit against rapper Kanye West and his Yeezy clothing line due to their unsuccessful collaboration. Court documents reveal that Gap initiated the claim in Los Angeles, citing West's anti-Semitic remarks as the reason for terminating their partnership last year. The company firmly stated their intolerance for any form of hate, deeming it inexcusable. Sports News1. In sports news, when questioned about the possibility of signing Lionel Messi from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for Real Madrid, former club president Ramon Calderon responded affirmatively, stating, "Of course...He still has two years to play at the highest level." Calderon emphasized the importance of keeping close tabs on a player like Messi. The Argentine's contract with PSG is set to conclude on June 30.2. In some uplifting news, MI eliminated LSG from IPL 2023 with an impressive 81-run victory at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. This win stands as MI's largest margin of victory (by runs) in the tournament. Additionally, it marks MI's first-ever triumph over LSG in the IPL. Notably, this is the second time in a row that LSG has been knocked out of the IPL in the Eliminator.3. Wrapping up sports news, star Indian shuttler PV Sindhu, displayed her prowess as she overcame Denmark's Line Christophersen in a hard-fought battle during the opening round of the women's singles at the Malaysia Masters. In the men's singles, Lakshya Sen caused a major upset by defeating Singapore's Loh Kean Yew, ranked fourth in the world. Sindhu's next opponent will be Japan's Aya Ohori as she aims to continue her winning streak. Bengaluru BuzzSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Catch the world’s favourite "A Cappella" Group, Penn Masala performing Live at the Farzi Cafe in UB City, happening on May 26th at 8.00 pm.2. Join a Bollywood dance class and showcase your talent at the Bolly Dance Workshop at the Go Native HSR, happening on the 27th of May at 5.00 pm.3. But wait, there's more. Catch ace comedian Vipul Goyal Live at MLR Convention Centre, JP Nagar, on the 27th of May at 5.00 pm and 8.00 pm.4. Are you a first-time painter or are you someone who hasn't picked up a paintbrush in a long time? This one's for you! Join an exclusive Guided Painting workshop at the Paint Bar, Sadashivanagar on the 27th of May at 3.00 pm.5. You can also catch the Super Sunday Bollywood Night and have a gala time with family and friends, at the Boomrang Bar X Social, Koramangala 7th Block, happening on the 28th of May at 8.00 pm. Bengaluru Weather1. In a general weather update. As per the India Meteorological Department, Bengaluru is expected to witness moderate to heavy thunderstorms with gusty winds touching 40-50km per hour for the next three days. Light to moderate thundershowers will follow for two days. The city received 25.8mm of rain from 8.30 am on May 23 to 8.30 am on May 24. So far tens of trees have been uprooted, hundreds of poles have fallen and about five people have lost their lives. 2. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. On the evening of May 25th, the temperatures will drop to 23°C and the chance of rain is very likely with expected thunderstorms. The weather on the morning of May 26th will be very hot, with temperatures reaching a 33°C. During the evening and nighttime, the temperatures will dip again to 21°C. That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Prathiksha Nehru

The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

25th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group?Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to Namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Bengaluru Local news1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Australia's PM Anthony Albanese revealed plans to establish an Australian Consulate-General in Bengaluru, aiming to foster connections between Australian businesses and India's thriving digital and innovation ecosystem. During a joint press conference with PM Narendra Modi, who is on a state visit, Albanese stated that this new presence in Bengaluru would mark Australia's fifth diplomatic establishment in India.2. In other headlines, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar vowed to end moral policing and saffronisation in the state, emphasizing the need for a cordial atmosphere and no harassment of people. He expressed a commitment to providing a corruption-free government. During a meeting with police officials, Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah instructed them to take stringent action against hooligans disrupting societal harmony.3. In some more news, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah reported that 52 individuals have lost their lives in the state due to the intense pre-monsoon rains. He mentioned that ₹5 lakh has already been granted to the families of the deceased. The CM also noted the loss of 331 livestock and reported crop damage spanning 20,000 hectares of land.4. Up next, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar will depart for New Delhi this evening. Their visit aims to meet with the Congress high command, discussing cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation to current Ministers. Siddaramaiah's official schedule indicates a departure by a special flight with an overnight stay in the national capital. While specific details of the visit remain undisclosed, party sources suggest discussions with Congress leadership on portfolio allocation and cabinet expansion are anticipated.5. Now, onto other news, Siddalingappa K Poojari, the son of a bus driver, has secured the 589th rank in the UPSC exams, among 25 successful candidates from Karnataka. Hailing from Annigeri town near Dharwad, Siddalingappa overcame a humble background and studied in Kannada medium. His mother, Shantavva, expressed surprise and pride in his achievement, mentioning that they had not provided any assistance. Siddalingappa, who holds a BE degree in Electronics, currently works at a private company in Bengaluru.6. Moving on, The KR Circle underpass, where a tragic incident claimed a 22-year-old's life, will undergo a transformation. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has planned the installation of CCTVs, the construction of ramps, and the implementation of new drainage systems. The report emphasizes the need for humps at the entry and exit points to prevent water flow into the underpass. Additionally, CCTVs, a vertical clearance gauge beam, and a boom barrier will be installed. These improvements will be implemented within 15 days.7. Meanwhile, Hoteliers are facing challenges in providing change to customers due to an influx of Rs 2,000 notes. The Bruhat Bengaluru Hotels Association President highlighted a shift in customer behaviour towards cash payments. Food delivery firms in the city reported a significant proportion of 'cash on delivery orders being paid in Rs 2,000 notes. Traders expressed concerns as people attempted to dispose of these notes following the RBI's recent withdrawal announcement. Despite being legal tender, traders are struggling to handle the situation.8. On a different note, To address rain-related disasters in Bengaluru, the BBMP will establish temporary monsoon control rooms across the city. To provide timely assistance during heavy rains, these control rooms will be operational by June 1. BBMP plans to set up 63 temporary monsoon control rooms at the sub-divisional level, each costing approximately Rs 1.25 lakh. Equipped to handle emergencies, these control rooms will be managed by an Assistant Executive Engineer to ensure effective response and support. National News1. Moving on to the national news. The government announced its intent to address high-risk and fake artificial intelligence through the upcoming Digital India Act. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar clarified that rather than regulating AI, the act will establish guardrails to mitigate risks. Chandrasekhar confirmed that the DIA will encompass provisions to tackle threats associated with high-risk AI, while also promoting startup innovations. The act aims to strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding against potential risks.2. Meanwhile, The AAP, TMC, and CPI have announced their boycott of the upcoming inauguration ceremony of the new Parliament building on May 28. The AAP stated that their decision was influenced by concerns regarding the exclusion of the President of India from the event. Derek O'Brien from the TMC criticized the ceremony, stating that it appeared self-centred and individualistic. Consequently, these parties will abstain from attending the ceremony.3. In more news, Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi has filed a court application in Delhi requesting a no objection certificate (NOC) for obtaining a new ordinary passport for his upcoming visit to the US. After his disqualification as a Lok Sabha MP, Gandhi surrendered his diplomatic passport earlier this year. The application has been submitted in relation to the National Herald case.4. Shifting our focus, In response to the recent outbreak of violence in Manipur, authorities dispatched an additional 600 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel from five companies to the state. Imphal witnessed closed businesses and advisories for people to remain indoors as a precautionary measure following the torching of two houses by a violent mob. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, A 19-year-old Indian-origin man identified as Sai Varshith Kandula was apprehended by the police for intentionally driving a truck into security barriers close to the White House. During the investigation, Kandula revealed his motive to "reach the White House and seize power." When questioned about his plan, he disturbingly stated that he would be willing to "assassinate President Joe Biden if necessary."2. In ongoing news, Shireen Mazari, a former minister and trusted associate of ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan, announced her resignation from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and retired from active politics. Her decision came after facing repeated arrests since May 12. Mazari condemned the actions of Khan's supporters, who attacked and set fire to defence installations on May 9 following his arrest. Aged 72, Mazari served as the Minister for Human Rights from 2018 to 2022.3. In a recent development, The UK government has unveiled measures to limit the ability of certain international students to bring their families to the country, intending to reduce annual net migration. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged to reduce legal migration, and the government aims to prevent individuals from using student visas as a means to seek employment in Britain, according to the Interior Ministry.4. In some positive news, Councillor Sameer Pandey has achieved a historic milestone as the first-ever Indian-origin Lord Mayor in Australia. He has been elected as the Lord Mayor of the City of Parramatta Council in Sydney. Pandey, who owns a small business, previously served as a council member and became Parramatta's first Deputy Lord Mayor from the Indian subcontinent in 2022. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. On the 18th anniversary of its commencement of operations, airliner SpiceJet experienced a decline of 13.93% in its shares. The shares closed at ₹24.16 per share, reaching a 52-week low of ₹22.56 per share intraday on the BSE. The airline's shares have been on a downward trajectory since its competitor Go First filed for insolvency in early May, resulting in a continuous decline since May 16.2. In more business news, Effective from June 1, the cost of electric two-wheelers is anticipated to rise as the government has reduced subsidies under the FAME 2 scheme. The subsidy for electric two-wheelers has been decreased to ₹10,000/kWh from the current ₹15,000/kWh. Additionally, the maximum subsidy cap has been lowered from 40% to 15% of the ex-factory pricing for eligible vehicles.3. Moving on, Reports indicate that staff at Amazon's Seattle headquarters have announced a large-scale walkout planned for the upcoming week. The walkout is a response to recent layoffs and the company's return-to-office policy. An employee expressed concerns about low morale, citing a lack of clarity and uncertainty from leadership, making it a disconcerting period to be employed at Amazon.4. GQG Partners, which invested ₹15,446 crores in Adani Group companies in March, has garnered a remarkable profit of ₹7,683 crore within 100 days. As of May 23rd, GQG's investments in Adani Enterprises, Green Energy, Ports and SEZ, and Transmission now stand at a valuation of ₹23,129 crore. This represents a 50% increase from their initial investment.5. In market news for May 24th, The benchmark indices continued to decline, reaching the day's lowest point, with the Nifty falling below 18,300. The Sensex experienced a decrease of 234.86 points or 0.38% at 61,746.93, while the Nifty dropped by 70.80 points or 0.39% to reach 18,277.20. Among the total shares traded, approximately 1498 shares advanced, 1707 shares declined, and 117 shares remained unchanged. The Indian Rupee strengthened due to a weakened Dollar and increased FII inflows. But, the Rupee's gains were limited by a decline in domestic markets. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Actress Kangana Ranaut criticized the ban on 'The Kerala Story' as "unconstitutional" since it had been cleared by the CBFC. She expressed that prohibiting a film approved by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) amounts to 'insulting' the constitution and it is 'not correct'. Ranaut stated that the ban imposed on the film by certain states, including West Bengal, is unjustified.2. In news from the Cannes Film Festival, Hollywood star Jennifer Lawrence made a fashion statement by pairing slippers with her elegant red gown from Dior Haute Couture at the prestigious red carpet event. Her unconventional choice garnered attention on social media, with fans applauding her sensible decision. One fan highlighted the potential harm caused by high-heeled shoes, appreciating Lawrence's consideration for foot health.3. Meanwhile, Actor Vijay Varma discussed his role in his latest web show 'Dahaad', stating that it posed a significant challenge as he portrayed a serial killer for the first time. To grasp the intricacies of his character, he sought the assistance of a psychologist. Vijay embraced the role as a personal challenge and dove deep to deliver a compelling performance. Sports News1. In sports news, Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, of Mercedes F1, is said to be contemplating an offer to join Ferrari starting in 2024. According to reports, Ferrari is preparing a £40 million deal to enlist Hamilton as Charles Leclerc's teammate, potentially replacing Carlos Sainz. Hamilton's performance has faced challenges, with his last victory dating back to 2021, and the emergence of George Russell poses a potential threat to his position, as per the report.2. In some uplifting news, In IPL 2023 Qualifier 1 at Chepauk Stadium, four-time champions Chennai emerged victorious with a 15-run win over defending champions Gujarat. This marks Chennai's first-ever victory against Gujarat in the IPL. Additionally, Chennai has become the first team to secure a spot in 10 IPL finals. Gujarat will now compete against the winner of the Eliminator match between Mumbai and Lucknow in Qualifier 2 on Friday, 26th May.3. Wrapping up sports news, Spanish police arrested four individuals about an incident that took place in January, where an effigy depicting Brazilian footballer Vinicius Jr was hung from a bridge near Real Madrid's training ground. These arrests occurred shortly after Luis Rubiales, the chief of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, acknowledged the existence of a racism problem in Spanish soccer, prompted by a complaint filed by Real Madrid regarding racially motivated crimes. Bengaluru BuzzSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week. 1. Visit the Indian Music Experience Museum at JP Nagar for an immersive musical gala, happening till the 28th of May at 11.00 am. 2. Catch ace comedian Abhishek Walia in his latest India Tour, Live at the Vapour Pub & Brewery, Indira Nagar happening on the 28th of May at 5.00 pm.3. But wait, there's more. Enjoy a night of Karaoke with friends and family, at the Marco Polo Cafe, Koramangala 5th Block, happening on the 26th & 27th of May, at 10.00 pm.4. Join a painting class in an exclusive Acrylic Painting Workshop happening at Lahe Lahe on the 28th of May, at 11.00 am.5. You can also catch the Comedy Nights special at Just BLR, Brigade Road, on the 29th of May, at 7.00 pm and 9.00 pm. Bengaluru Weather1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. On the evening of May 24th, the city will see a temperature drop to 23°C and it is expected to rain late evening. The weather on the morning of May 25th in Bengaluru will be very hot with temperatures reaching an estimated 33°C. During the evening and nighttime, the temperatures will again drop to 22°C. That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Prathiksha Nehru

24th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group?Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to Namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Bengaluru Local news1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Amidst heavy rainfall in Bengaluru, another tragic incident occurred as a 31-year-old man lost his life by drowning in a storm drain. Despite repeated warnings from residents, Lokesh ventured into the drain to assess the water's depth. The force of the water swept him away, and his lifeless body was discovered approximately 12 km away in another drain located in Byatarayanapura. This unfortunate event marked the second fatality due to intense rainfall.2. In other headlines, following the tragic demise of a 22-year-old Infosys employee, Bhanurekha, who was stranded in a waterlogged underpass in Bengaluru and lost her life, recently elected Deputy CM DK Shivakumar took swift action. He promptly directed the preparation of a comprehensive report on all underpasses across the state of Karnataka. He also assured the public that while implementing necessary measures may take time, utmost efforts will be made to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.3. In some more news, In response to the unfortunate demise of the 22-year-old techie, former Karnataka CM, Basavaraj Bommai, expressed his sentiment that timely intervention by the BBMP could have potentially saved her life. He emphasized the existence of certain flaws within the system and mentioned the importance of proper maintenance of the drainage infrastructure by the BBMP. Additionally, he expressed his recollection of no prior incidents resulting in fatalities of this nature.4. Up next, Karnataka police issued a warning to drug peddlers, urging them to abstain from engaging in illicit trading of banned narcotics. Alok Kumar, the additional DGP of Karnataka, declared that the police department remains focused on curbing drug peddling, even during the assembly elections. The department has set a deadline of August 15 to eliminate drugs from Mangaluru, Manipal, and Mysuru. Earlier, the police had already cautioned peddlers about the consequences of involvement in drug-related activities.5. Now, onto other news, The 2nd Trade and Investment Working Group meeting, led by India's G20 Presidency, commenced in Bengaluru today. Over 100 representatives from G20 member countries, invitee countries and international organizations will convene for three days to discuss vital topics such as reforming the multilateral trading system, integrating MSMEs into global trade and enhancing trade for growth and prosperity. The event comprises a guided city tour, a cultural program, and Gala Dinner for the G20 delegates.6. Moving on, The newly elected Congress-led government in Karnataka has made the decision to halt the release of funds and payments for any work orders initiated by the previous BJP government, according to officials familiar with the matter. Orders will be issued soon, and ongoing projects that have not yet commenced will be immediately stopped. A senior official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that all projects will undergo review based on instructions. 7. Meanwhile, On Monday, 22nd May, Congress workers in Bengaluru performed a 'puja' and sprinkled cow urine outside the Karnataka Assembly building. They stated that their intention was to 'purify' the premises before the newly elected Congress government's inaugural session. A video circulating online depicted Congress workers carrying a bucket, purportedly filled with cow urine, and using leaves dipped in the liquid to sprinkle it around.8. On another note, due to the relentless rainfall, valuable gold jewellery stored in a showroom in Malleshwaram was swept away. The showroom owner expressed shock, stating that their priority was to ensure personal safety during the rain. However, upon inspection, they discovered that the jewellery, previously stored in boxes, had also been washed away. The estimated loss of gold jewellery amounts to approximately Rs.2.5 crore. National News1. Moving on to the national news. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the results of the Civil Services Exam 2022 today. Ishita Kishore emerged as the topper of the exam. The preliminary exam took place on June 5, 2022, with the results being declared on June 22. The main examination was conducted from September 16 to 25, the results of which were announced on December 6 2022.2. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal addressed the acts of violence in Manipur, highlighting the detrimental impact of the "communal virus" on the body politic, contrasting it with the effects of the "coronavirus" on the human body. In a tweet, he expressed concern about Manipur's reoccurring turmoil, emphasizing the potentially unimaginable consequences if the violence continues to escalate. Sibal also cautioned that while political gains may be temporary, the scars left behind are enduring.3. In more news, effective June 1, the Government of India has mandated that cough syrup exporters must undergo product testing at designated government laboratories. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has specified that cough syrups must possess a certificate of analysis before being exported. This decision follows the unfortunate incidents where cough syrups manufactured in India were associated with the tragic deaths of several children in Gambia and Uzbekistan.4. Shifting our focus, The Indian Navy accomplished a successful engagement of a sea-skimming supersonic target with the guided missile destroyer INS Mormugao. The Navy highlighted this inaugural achievement as a testament to their combat preparedness and dedication to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Emphasizing its significance, the Navy described the warship as one of the most formidable vessels built in India. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, The driver of a truck was apprehended after crashing the vehicle into security barriers near the White House grounds, confirmed a spokesperson from the US Secret Service. Fortunately, no Secret Service or White House personnel sustained injuries in the incident. Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the Secret Service, stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause and circumstances of the crash.2. In ongoing news, The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called upon nations to implement necessary reforms in preparation for future pandemics. He commended their "historic" decision to approve a significant budget increase during the WHO's annual assembly. Tedros pushed for immediate action to avoid postponing crucial changes. The 10-day World Health Assembly in Geneva, coinciding with the WHO's 75th anniversary, will address various global health challenges, including polio eradication, and supporting Ukraine's health emergency caused by Russia's invasion.3. In a recent development, E Jean Carroll, the columnist who won a $5 million sexual abuse and defamation lawsuit against former US President Donald Trump, has filed an amended lawsuit seeking at least $10 million more in compensatory damages and additional punitive damages. Carroll's lawyers argued that Trump's remarks following the verdict, including derogatory comments made during a television appearance, further harmed her reputation and led to the loss of her position as an advice columnist.4. In some positive news, a 78-year-old man and his 81-year-old sister, who were separated during the Partition 75 years ago, experienced a joyous reunion at the Kartarpur Corridor. Reports indicate that Mahendra Kaur, hailing from India, found her long-lost brother, Sheikh Abdul Aziz, residing in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, after learning about their relationship through a social media post. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. Adani Group firms' market capitalization (m-cap) surpassed ₹11 lakh crore during today's trading, following a rally for the third consecutive session. At its peak, the overall m-cap of the Adani Group reached ₹11.06 lakh crore. Shares of Adani Ports also surged by up to 7.7%, making it the first Adani Group company to recover all the losses incurred since the stock market decline caused by Hindenburg Research's report. 2. In more business news, JioMart, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, has reportedly terminated over 1,000 employees today as part of a broader workforce reduction in its wholesale division, which is expected to result in a reduction of over 9,000 positions. This comes after Reliance's acquisition of Metro Cash and Carry, which added 3,500 permanent employees to its workforce, leading to overlapping roles and subsequent restructuring.3. Moving on, A US judge has dismissed a lawsuit alleging that Elon Musk cheated Twitter shareholders during a buyout. The lawsuit contended that Musk's delayed disclosure of a 9.2% Twitter stake allowed him to purchase additional shares at lower prices prior to the buyout announcement. The court ruled that the lawsuit primarily addressed grievances related to the buyout process rather than its fairness.4. Starting today, the process of exchanging or depositing ₹2,000 banknotes has commenced. Individuals can exchange these notes at a limit of ₹20,000 per transaction. It is permissible to deposit these banknotes into bank accounts or exchange them for other denominations at any bank branch. According to the SBI, no requisition slip or identity proof is necessary for the exchange of these banknotes.5. In market news for May 23rd, The Sensex recorded a gain of 122.31 points or 0.20% at 62,085.99, while the Nifty rose by 59.10 points or 0.32% to reach 18,373.50. Among the traded shares, 1647 showed an upward trend, 1588 experienced a decline, and 97 remained unchanged. The Indian Rupee displayed a minor upward trend due to positive domestic equities and foreign institutional investor (FII) inflows. However, significant gains were limited by the strength of the US Dollar, which benefited from optimism surrounding debt ceiling discussions. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Ray Stevenson, the Irish actor known for portraying Governor Scott Buxton in 'RRR', has died at the age of 58. According to his publicist Nicki Fioravante, Stevenson passed away late Sunday, just a few days before his birthday. The cause of his death has not been revealed. Stevenson also appeared in notable films such as 'Thor' and 'King Arthur', among others.2. In news from the Cannes Film Festival, actor Sunny Leone, who is attending the prestigious event for the premiere of her film 'Kennedy', expressed that it has surpassed her wildest dreams to be there. She also mentioned that she earned the film by defying stereotypes and overcoming hurtful comments. She stated, alluding to her personal journey, "Only my husband, my team, and I truly understand the challenges I've faced."3. Meanwhile, actress Aahana Kumra addressed a recent incident where a fan touched her waist, emphasizing that public figures like celebrities are often perceived as accessible. She said, "The lines can get blurred," adding that people may feel they know celebrities, but the reverse is not true. Aahana stressed the importance of maintaining boundaries and asserting that a sense of distance should be maintained. Sports News1. In sports news, expressing her frustration with the lack of action by the police against Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, wrestler Vinesh Phogat criticized the prolonged nature of their protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. She emphasized that the repeated discussions on sexual harassment incidents can be mentally distressing for the victims involved.2. In some uplifting news, in solidarity with Real Madrid star, Vinicius Jr., who faced racial abuse during a La Liga match, the lights on Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer were turned off for an hour on the night of 22nd May. The Brazilian government has urged authorities to take strict action against those accountable for the "racist attacks" targeting the Brazilian forward.3. Wrapping up sports news - After his team's exit from IPL 2023, ex-Bangalore captain Virat Kohli expressed his thoughts and shared photos on Instagram. He wrote - "Though the season had its moments, we regrettably fell short of our goal." Kohli acknowledged the disappointment but encouraged the team to remain resilient. He also expressed gratitude towards their loyal supporters, acknowledging their unwavering support. Bengaluru BuzzSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week. 1. Join an exclusive Open-mic event and express yourself at the My School of Rock, Koramangala 8th block, happening on the 28th of May at 5.30 pm.2. Catch Kunal Kamra in his latest outing " So-Called Comedian" Live at the BOHO Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, Brookfield Mall on the 27th of May, at 3.00 pm and 5.00 pm.3. But wait, there's more. Catch "The Great Bangalore Laughter Show" and hang out with your favourite comedians at The Art Gully Studio at Koramangala 4th Block, happening from the 25th to the 28th of May at 10.00 pm.4. Join a special pottery class and bring your family along too, to the Pottery with Families workshop, happening on the 28th of May at Lahe Lahe at 10.00 am.5. You can also join an exclusive dance class with the Bhangra Nights crew, happening at the Dialogues Cafe, JP Nagar on the 28th of May at 7.30 pm. Bengaluru Weather1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. The evening of May 23rd will see temperatures drop to 24°C. The chance of heavy rain is also very likely. The weather on the morning of 24th May, in Bengaluru will be very hot with temperatures reaching 35°C. During the evening and nighttime, the temperatures will again dip to 23°C. That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Prathiksha Nehru

23rd May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time.Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local news Let's begin with updates from the city. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah requested the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner on Sunday, 21st May, to end the 'Zero Traffic' protocol for his vehicle movement, citing difficulties faced by commuters on restricted routes. The 'Zero Traffic' protocol aims to facilitate the seamless movement of the CM's convoy and enhances security measures. In other headlines, A government school teacher in Karnataka was suspended for criticizing CM Siddaramaiah and his policies on social media. The teacher, identified as Shantanamurthy MG, shared a Facebook post highlighting the increasing state debt during Siddaramaiah's tenure and the announcement of freebies. The suspension order cited a violation of civil services conduct rules, and a departmental inquiry was initiated. Up next, Following a prolonged period of unusual heat in Bengaluru, heavy rainfall occurred over the weekend, providing relief to the residents of the capital. However, the downpour also led to notorious waterlogging in certain parts of the city. The Indian Meteorological Department forecasts that the Bengaluru rains will persist for the next few days. Social media platforms were inundated with images and videos capturing the surprising scenes of the showers in Bengaluru. In some tragic news, A 23-year-old Infosys employee died when the car she was in drove into a flooded underpass at Bengaluru's KR Circle on 21st May. Fire and emergency services rescued six other passengers, including five family members. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to the family of the deceased, later identified as Bhanurekha. An FIR has been registered against the BBMP, by the victim's brother. Now, onto other news, The incident of a fire at the Dry Waste Collection Centre in Ward 177, JP Nagar has left residents shocked. The centre served as a valuable learning hub for students, academics, and policymakers, showcasing the positive impact of waste management in the area. The loss of the centre has also resulted in several people losing their livelihoods. The residents have demanded that the BBMP restore the DWCC. Moving on, to promote women's inclusion in the workforce, the Women on Wheels car rally was held on May 21st. This empowering event aimed to raise awareness about the need for safer driving conditions and facilities and to foster a supportive environment for women. With over 50 participating cars, the rally covered a challenging terrain of approximately 80-100 kilometres. It served as a platform to amplify women's rights. Meanwhile, Karnataka's Director General of Police, Praveen Sood, expressed his gratitude to the police force for overseeing the "most peaceful elections ever" without any untoward incidents. As he prepares to take charge as the next CBI Director in New Delhi, he advised the Karnataka police to prioritize the well-being of the constabulary and citizens before spending money. Sood, considering the police force as his extended family, conveyed his best wishes to the officers during his farewell parade. On another note, The upcoming Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway is set to become the city's first high-speed expressway, allowing travel at a speed of 120 kmph. In comparison, the current Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway has a maximum speed limit of 100 kmph. Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced that the construction of the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway will be finished by February next year. At a total length of 262 km, this expressway is being built at a cost of Rs. 16,730 crore. National News Moving on to the national news. Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka awarded PM Narendra Modi the highest honour of Fiji, the 'Companion of the Order of Fiji' today. This prestigious recognition was bestowed upon PM Modi for his global leadership, making him one of the few non-Fijians to receive this distinguished honour. Meanwhile, The Delhi High Court has summoned BBC in a defamation suit filed by Gujarat-based NGO Justice on Trial, alleging that the documentary on PM Narendra Modi tarnishes India's reputation, judiciary, and the Prime Minister himself. Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing the NGO, argued that the documentary makes insinuations against PM Modi. The court's summons require BBC to respond to the allegations. In more news, Nagaland minister and BJP leader Temjen Imna Along expressed confidence in BJP's victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, downplaying the impact of Congress policies. Along stated that Congress cannot solely rely on their win in Karnataka to guarantee success in 2024. He affirmed that BJP is poised to retain power and dismissed the notion that Congress will prevail in the upcoming polls. Shifting our focus, former NCB officer, Sameer Wankhede was interrogated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for over five hours consecutively on Sunday. When approached by the media outside the CBI office, he responded with "Satyamev Jayate." Wankhede has been accused of allegedly demanding a bribe of ₹25 crore to avoid implicating Aryan, the son of actor Shah Rukh Khan, in a drugs-related case. International News Turning our attention to international news, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy clarified on Sunday, 21st May that Russian forces have not occupied Bakhmut, despite claims made by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, asserting their control over the Ukrainian city. Zelenskyy stated, "As of today, Bakhmut is not occupied by the Russian Federation." However, in a previous statement, he mentioned that Bakhmut holds sentimental value and that there is currently no physical presence in that area. In ongoing news, The British High Commission in India posted on their social media, of UK PM Rishi Sunak embracing Indian PM Narendra Modi during the G7 summit in Japan, captioned "Ek Mazboot Dosti" - One strong friendship. PM Modi tweeted later stating that they discussed enhancing collaboration in trade, innovation, science, and other sectors. In a recent development, German authorities are investigating potential cases of poisoning among Russian exiles after a journalist and an activist experienced health issues following a dissidents' meeting in Berlin. One of the dissidents described symptoms such as "sharp pain" and "numbness." It is worth noting that Russian dissident Alexey Navalny was poisoned with a Soviet-made nerve agent in 2020. In some other news, Australian PM Anthony Albanese expressed his support on Sunday for a G7 joint statement that emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on trade with China. The G7 communiqué referred to the need to manage risks rather than completely sever economic engagement with China. Albanese stated, "I endorse the G7 communiqués on international relations...we are there." It is noteworthy that China recently lifted trade restrictions on Australian timber. Business News Let's now look at some business stories. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das has stated today that there is no need to hurry to banks for exchanging or depositing ₹2,000 banknotes after the central bank's directive to withdraw them. Das emphasized that there is a four-month window to exchange notes, adding that setting a specific time frame is necessary for the process to reach its conclusion. In more business news, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has awarded a significant advance purchase order to a consortium led by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for the deployment of a nationwide 4G network in India. The contract, valued at over ₹15,000 crores, also involves the participation of telecom gear manufacturer Tejas Networks, responsible for supplying and servicing Radio Access Networks (RAN) equipment.  Moving on, The European Union has imposed a historic fine of €1.2 billion on Meta today and directed the company to cease the transfer of data collected from Facebook users in Europe to the United States. This penalty surpasses the €746 million fine levied on Amazon by the EU in 2021. The Data Protection Commission of Ireland has instructed Facebook to halt any future transfer of personal data to the US within the next five months. In market news for May 22nd, The Sensex recorded a gain of 244.28 points or 0.40%, reaching 61,973.96, while the Nifty witnessed a rise of 111.20 points or 0.61%, reaching 18,314.60. Among the traded shares, 1624 advanced, 1709 declined, and 141 remained unchanged. Gold prices remained unchanged as traders await further clarity on the U.S. debt ceiling negotiations and the Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates. Entertainment News Over to news from the entertainment world. Expressing his disappointment, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri lamented on Twitter the decline of the Cannes Film Festival, stating that it is disheartening to witness its transformation. He criticized the prominence of fashion and social media influencers, emphasizing the diminishing focus on actual films and filmmakers. In more news from the Cannes Film Festival, Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, whose film Kennedy will premiere at Cannes, opened up about his complex connection with violence, stating that it deeply affects him. He confessed to fainting at the sight of real blood. Kashyap also acknowledged his difficult relationship with violence, which reflects in his films where he tends to depict extreme forms of it. Meanwhile, Actor Sean Penn has voiced his support for the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike during a press conference at the Cannes Film Festival. Penn expressed solidarity with Hollywood screenwriters, highlighting the long-standing exploitation of writers, actors, and directors in the industry. He also criticized the resistance from producers towards new concepts like the use of AI, considering it a human obscenity. Sports News In sports news, led by opener Shubman Gill's consecutive century, Gujarat secured a six-wicket victory over Bangalore in their Indian Premier League match. Gujarat achieved their highest successful run chase in IPL, reaching a target of 198. As a result, Bangalore has been eliminated from the IPL 2023, while the five-time champions Mumbai have successfully qualified for the playoffs.  In some other news, Following WFI chief Brij Bhushan's offer to undergo narco, polygraph, or lie detector tests, wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have accepted the challenge to do the tests too. Additionally, all seven complainants involved in the matter will also undergo the tests, as confirmed by Punia. Phogat emphasized the importance of conducting the tests publicly to expose Bhushan's alleged cruelty, ensuring the entire country is aware of the situation. Wrapping up sports with some tragic news, A stampede at the Monumental Stadium in Cuscatlan, El Salvador, during a football match between Alianza and FAS has resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals and over 500 injuries. The incident occurred when a large crowd attempted to enter a closed sector of the stadium, leading to the stampede. Bengaluru Local Events Switching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.  1. Catch the StandUp Comedy Live, featuring Shamik Chakrabarti, Jotheen Patro and more, at the Bistro Claytopia, Koramangala at 8.00 pm, happening till the 26th of May.2. Join the Chai date on the 24th of May and have great soulful conversations at Small World, Koramangala at 7.00 pm.3. But wait, there's more. Join a Yoga class with ace yogini Sripriya at Lahe Lahe from May 23rd. You can book yourself for available slots at 7.00 am and 8.00 am.4. Join The Rhyme Society for an exclusive open mic event happening on 28th May, between 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm at the Pops of Pastel studio at Basavanagudi.5. You can also catch a Stand-Up Nights special hosted by Shankar Chugani and organized by MORPH._Code at the 21st Amendment Gastrobar in Indira Nagar on 29th May at 8.00 pm. Bengaluru Weather 1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. The evening of May 22nd will see the temperatures drop to 23°C and will be partly cloudy. On the 23rd of May, Bengaluru is expected to be scorching, with temperatures soaring up to 38°C. However, as the evening approaches and transitions into the night, the mercury will dip, and the temperatures will drop to around 24°C. That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Prathiksha Nehru

22nd May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time.Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local news1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Congress is set to form a new government in Karnataka with Siddaramaiah as chief minister and DK Shivakumar as deputy. At least 10 to 12 ministers will be inducted into the cabinet. Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar will share the CM post for 30 months each. Oath-taking at Kanteerava Stadium by the cabinet will approve the five promised guarantees of the Congress manifesto.2. In other headlines, preparations for the upcoming swearing-in ceremony on May 20th in Bengaluru are underway, with heightened security measures in place. Over 260 additional personnel have been requested to provide high-level security to prominent VVIPs, including the Gandhi family and chief ministers from various states. The city's law enforcement and traffic police are also involved in ensuring a smooth event.3. In some more news, the BBMP plans to scrutinize self-assessment declarations of commercial properties in Bengaluru, physically measuring them to ensure accurate tax payments. Around 2.6 lakh properties have been identified for the verification process. The aim is to meet a revenue collection target of Rs 4,412 crore and address discrepancies, such as properties paying residential taxes despite commercial use.4. Up next, the Kempegowda International Airport's Terminal 2 has achieved the prestigious IGBC Platinum certification for sustainability from the Indian Green Building Council. The certification recognizes the terminal's adherence to environmentally conscious practices, including sustainable architecture, energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality. The achievement reflects the airport's commitment to responsible and green practices.5. Now, onto other news, Allo Health, a digital health clinic for sexual wellness, inaugurated its first physical clinic in Indiranagar. The clinic aims to address the lack of accessible sexual healthcare in India, with plans to open over 50 clinics across the country within a year. Services include treatment for physical and mental sexual disorders, along with workshops to promote awareness.6. Moving on, the price of tender coconuts has surged this summer, with an increase of Rs 5-10 per fruit in the city. In most places, it has surpassed the Rs 40 mark. However, coconut farmers express concerns that market prices fail to cover the expenses of cultivation. Street vendors primarily rely on supplies from Mysuru, Mandya, and Chikkaballapur districts.7. Meanwhile, The Bangalore Summer Meeting at the Bangalore Turf Club will begin on May 20th, offering total prize money of around Rs 18.4 crores, an increase from the previous year. The season includes four classic horseraces, with the Bangalore Summer Derby having a guaranteed prize of Rs 2 crores. The meeting spans 168 horseraces across 24 days, featuring around 50 trainers and a 100 jockeys.8. On a different note, ISRO's "wall museum" will also serve as a STEM learning tool, showcasing India's space program. The 7x7 feet wooden cabinet features over 25 scale models of Isro's technology, tracing its history through satellites, rockets, and more. Indic Inspirations has designed the museum and created merchandise, including rocket models crafted by artisans of Channapatna.   National news1. Moving on to the national news. The Supreme Court has warned the Nagaland government against obstructing the implementation of 33% reservation for women in urban local bodies. The state's assembly had previously resolved not to implement the reservation, but the court demanded adherence to the law. The court has given the Union government and Nagaland until July to find a solution.2. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court will hear a plea challenging the scientific survey of a 'Shivling' at the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi. The High Court ordered the survey to determine the structure's age, but the plea challenges this order. The matter is scheduled for hearing on May 19th before a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala.3. In more news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun a six-day visit to Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia, where he will participate in three key multilateral summits. With over 40 engagements planned, Modi will interact with world leaders through bilateral meetings and summits. Deliverables are expected from the Quad summit, and Modi will address global challenges at the G7 summit. The visit includes hosting the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation and discussions with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.4. Shifting our focus, India reaffirmed to the UN General Assembly its dedication to the reduction of disaster risk, focusing on mitigating hazards like landslides, floods, earthquakes, and heat waves. With increased funding and revamped financing, India aligns its efforts with the Sendai Framework and the 2030 Agenda. It leads the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and strives to enhance early warning systems.   International news1. Turning our attention to international news, the G7 leaders expressed grave concern over Russia's seizure and militarisation of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant. They demanded Russia's immediate withdrawal from Ukraine and emphasised the importance of a just peace. The G7 pledged ongoing support for Ukraine and announced sanctions targeting critical supplies for Russia's war efforts.2. In a recent development, China's President Xi Jinping outlined an ambitious development plan for Central Asia, emphasising infrastructure, trade, and stability while rejecting outside interference. He called for collaboration with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to modernize the region. Central Asian nations were urged to oppose external interference, combat terrorism, and strengthen security measures. The summit showcased solidarity, enhancing China's influence and countering negative perceptions.3. In some positive news, Australian doctor Dr. Kenneth Elliott, who was held captive by al Qaeda-linked extremists for over seven years in West Africa, has been released. The 88-year-old doctor is safe and has been reunited with his wife and children. The couple was kidnapped in 2016 near Burkina Faso's border with Mali, where they ran a 120-bed clinic for more than 40 years. His wife, Jocelyn Elliott, was freed after three weeks. Business news1. Let's now look at some business stories. The government's 20% tax on foreign credit card transactions is facing criticism from experts for discouraging online payments, constraining cash flows, and promoting cash-based foreign exchange. Experts advise a nominal tax or lower limit instead, as the decision contradicts India's cashless economy, burdens individuals and small businesses, and hampers the ease of doing business. Reconsideration and a reduced levy are being urged by experts.2. In more business news, Reliance Retail is reportedly forming a strategic partnership with Chinese fashion giant Shein to bring the brand back to India, following the ban on its app by the Indian government two years ago. Shein recently raised $2 billion in funding at a lower valuation due to declining tech share prices and increased scrutiny of its practices. Reliance's partnership with Shein aims to bolster its fast-fashion portfolio through physical stores and online channels.3. Moving on, lenders have accused Byju's Alpha, the Indian ed-tech company, of concealing $500 million during a control dispute. The allegation stems from a default, prompting lenders to claim the right to appoint their representative as the company's leader. Byju's faces challenges like restructuring, a government investigation, and plans for an IPO. A trial is set to determine control.4. In the share market on May 19th, Indian shares relinquished early gains as investors took profits following a recent rally. The tightening US labor market data dashed hopes of rate cuts this year. The Nifty is headed for its fourth consecutive session of losses, down 1.26% for the week, potentially marking its first weekly decline in four weeks. While 12 of the 13 major sectoral indexes experienced losses, the IT index managed to rise by 1% for the day. Entertainment news1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Despite controversies, "The Kerala Story" is set to earn Rs 200 crores at the box office, making it the second highest-grossing Hindi film of 2023. The film tackles a sensitive and controversial subject and has remained unaffected by the controversies surrounding it. It collected Rs 171 crores domestically, with a slight drop in collections on May 18th.2. In news from the Cannes Film Festival, Harrison Ford was honoured with the Palme d'Or for lifetime achievement at the festival. During the event, he presented Lucasfilm's upcoming film, "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." Ford expressed gratitude and acknowledged his colleagues while mentioning his latest movie. The fifth instalment of the Indiana Jones franchise, directed by James Mangold, features Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Mads Mikkelsen and will be released in late June.3. Meanwhile, Martin Scorsese's highly anticipated film, "Killers of the Flower Moon," will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 20th. Based on a non-fiction book, the Western genre movie focuses on the systematic murders of Osage Indians in Oklahoma during the 1920s. Also being screened at the festival is the upcoming HBO series "The Idol," created by Sam Levinson and The Weeknd. The series, premiering at the Cannes Film Festival on May 22nd, revolves around a pop star's breakdown and her relationship with a self-help guru. Sports news1. In sports news, Virat Kohli's century propelled Bangalore to fourth place in the IPL 2023 points table. Bangalore's win boosts their playoff hopes, while Chennai and Lucknow are currently in second and third place respectively. Rajasthan, Kolkata, and Punjab are vying for qualification, with net run rate playing a crucial role. The results of the upcoming matches will determine the final playoff spots.2. In some uplifting news, West Ham advanced to their first European final in 47 years with a 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar, setting up a clash with Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final on June 7. Fiorentina secured their spot with a dramatic 3-1 win against FC Basel. West Ham's achievement marks a significant milestone for the club eager to end their trophy drought.4. Wrapping up sports news, Rafael Nadal will miss the French Open, ending his streak of 19 consecutive appearances, due to a hip injury. The 14-time men's singles champion plans to retire after the 2024 season. Nadal's absence raises doubts about his participation in Wimbledon. His decision comes after months of unsuccessful attempts to recover from the injury, and he aims to take a break to prioritise his health and prepare for a farewell season in 2024. Local eventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1.  Join the Coffee Arches Texture Art Workshop at Lahe Lahe, Kodihalli, on 20th May from 11 AM to 1 PM.2. Join Chess Connect organised by Bangalore Chess Club also at Lahe Lahe on May 21st at 10 AM.3. But wait, there's more. Learn Salsa and Bachata from the Motley Dance Company at Lahe Lahe on May 21st.4. Tell Your Story at Listeners Circle, a safe space for sharing without judgement, at Dialogues Cafe in JP Nagar on 21st May at 5:30 PM.5. Rajat Sood Live presents a Comedy Show, blending poetry and comedy in a unique style. Join the laughter at Drunkling Comedy Club in Koramangala on May 21st at 5 PM. Weather1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. The evening of May 19th is expected to be partly cloudy with a high temperature of 31°C and a low temperature of 25°C. On May 20th, the temperatures will range from a high of 33°C to a low of 22°C. The day will be generally clear, followed by a partly cloudy night. May 21st is forecasted to have a high of 32°C and a low of 21°C, with rain predicted to develop in the afternoon. That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

19th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time.Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local news 1        Let's begin with an election update. After three days of negotiations, Karnataka chief ministerial contenders Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar have agreed to a compromise formula. Siddaramaiah is set to become the chief minister while Shivakumar will be his deputy and retain the state party chief position. The details of the power-sharing arrangement, including any rotation period, are yet to be confirmed. 2        In more election news, Siddaramaiah, a Kuruba leader, will be sworn in as the new chief minister in Bengaluru on May 20th, serving his second term. Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar's firm positions made the process challenging. Reports of Shivakumar being offered deputy chief minister and portfolios were denied. Siddaramaiah's selection as CM, backed by 85 MLAs, was expected. 3        In other headlines, Bengaluru experienced low turnout in the recent assembly polls, with a notable rise in voters opting for the NOTA option. Official data reveals that 0.7% of voters (2,69,763 individuals) chose NOTA, marking a 7.4% increase from 2018. Constituencies on the city's periphery showed higher NOTA votes, impacting close contests in some areas like Mahadevapura. 4        Up next, the 5% rebate on property tax payment, which expired in April, is likely to be extended until June 30th. The BBMP is requesting approval from the state government following requests from former corporators. The BBMP aims to collect Rs 4,690 crore from property tax in the 2023-24 budget. 5        Moving on, a new model road project is underway in Bengaluru's Peenya Industrial Area, funded by Radiall through its CSR initiative. PotHoleRaja, known for improving road infrastructure across cities, will collaborate with BBMP for execution. The road will include an efficient drainage system, utility trenches, clear road markings, reflectors, and disabled-friendly footpaths. 6        Now, onto other news, a tourist in her 40s, whose age and nationality were not revealed, died of a brain haemorrhage while in the city, but saved the lives of six people by donating her organs. According to the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization, or SOTTO, Sparsh Hospital in RR Nagar successfully transplanted the liver, left kidney, heart valves, corneas, and skin to other patients. The donors were chosen based on a waiting list. 7        Meanwhile, Bengaluru has been selected for the national Cycle to Work challenge, promoting sustainable mobility. As part of the Cycles for Change campaign, the city has been shortlisted for the cycle2work program, engaging with companies to encourage employees to cycle to work and offering rewards. Tech companies are embracing cycling, with employees advocating for cycling-friendly facilities in offices. 8        On a different note, the butterfly park at Bannerghatta Biological Park is offering free entry on Mondays till June 5th for visitors traveling by government bus. Otherwise, the entry charge ranges from Rs 30 to Rs 50. Proof of travel is required for free entry. This initiative is part of the Lifestyle for Environment campaign by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly habits. Local events  Switching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week. 1        Aakash Mehta will be performing his stand-up comedy show titled "Nasty" at the Drunkling Comedy Club, Koramangala. The show is scheduled for May 19th at 10 PM. 2        Shuffle dance workshops are happening every Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 pm at Lahe Lahe, Indiranagar. 3        But wait, there's more. Participate in meditation, mindfulness, Reiki healing, connection with breath and body, and holistic healing at the New Moon Healing Circle at Shoonya Mari in Sudhama Nagar on May 19th at 6:30 PM. 4        Experience Pottery with Families every Sunday at Lahe Lahe in Indiranagar. Explore the tactile experience of natural clay and learn hand-building techniques. 5        Enjoy an Acoustic Ghazal Night featuring Rishabh Verma and Vidhit Arora at Lahe Lahe in Indiranagar on May 20th at 7:30 PM. National news 1        Moving on to national news. The Indian government has conducted a mini-reshuffle, moving Kiren Rijiju from the law ministry to the low-key Ministry of Earth Sciences, while Arjun Ram Meghwal has taken Rijiju's previous post. Meghwal will have independent charge as a Minister of State in the Ministry of Law and Justice, as well as Parliamentary Affairs and Culture. 2        Meanwhile, A US court has granted permission for the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian businessman of Pakistani origin, to India. Rana is accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. India filed a complaint in June 2020, and the Biden Administration has supported and approved Rana's extradition. The court order certifies Rana's extraditability, and India's National Investigation Agency is ready to initiate proceedings to bring him to India. 3        In more news from around the country, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced plans to meet Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati for the second round of border talks. The meeting, expected to take place on May 24th, aims to address the remaining differences between the two states. Sangma emphasized the need for peace and finding solutions to ongoing problems at the interstate border. 4        Shifting our focus, the Supreme Court of India will monitor rescue and relief efforts in Manipur following ethnic violence that has caused at least 70 deaths. The court aims to maintain law and order and restore confidence. It expressed concerns about a single judge's decision on the Meitei community's scheduled tribe status and will continue to oversee the situation, requesting an updated report from the state government. International news 1        Turning our attention to international news. Pakistan's Punjab interim government has claimed that 30 to 40 terrorists are hiding at the Lahore residence of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, giving him a 24-hour ultimatum to hand them over or face action. The National Accountability Bureau has summoned Imran Khan and his wife for an investigation in the Al-Qadir Trust case, but Khan is likely to submit a written response instead of appearing in person. 2        In more news today, G7 leaders have gathered in Hiroshima, Japan, to discuss tighter sanctions on Russia and address concerns about China's "economic coercion." The summit aims to forge a united front on various pressing issues. Ukraine's conflict with Russia and the need for stronger sanctions will be a key focus. Discussions on China will focus on economic resilience and diversifying supply chains to counter potential economic blackmail. 3        In a recent development, with the approval of Senate Bill 14, Texas is set to become the largest US state to ban medical treatments for transgender children. Despite opposition and protests, the bill passed in the Texas Legislature, prohibiting hormone treatments, surgeries, and medical support for transgender minors. The bill awaits the governor's signature and is part of a series of proposals targeting transgender individuals in Texas. 4        In other news, The Quad Summit in Sydney has been cancelled, but the navies of the United States, India, Australia, and Japan will participate in advanced Malabar 2023 exercises off Australia's east coast from August 11th to 22nd. The drills will focus on anti-submarine warfare operations amid concerns over China's aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific. The India-US military exercise program was also reviewed, emphasizing collaboration and interoperability between the two forces. Business news 1        Let's now look at some business stories. India is considering importing 1.25 million tons of oil to replenish its strategic reserves, following the US' example. The specific grades and suppliers are yet to be decided. Low prices and global demand concerns have prompted both countries to boost their reserves. India plans to fill a quarter of its storage capacity across two sites with a budget allocation of Rs 5,000 crores. 2        In more business news, Netflix revealed that its ad-supported plan has attracted nearly five million global users, doubling its membership since earlier this year. The streaming giant, during a virtual "Upfront" presentation to advertisers, emphasized its show lineup, viewer demographics, and new productions like "Griselda" and upcoming seasons of popular originals such as "Stranger Things." Netflix's total subscriber count reached a record high of 232.5 million in April. 3        Moving on, news broadcaster NDTV, under Adani Group's control, plans to launch nine news channels in different Indian languages. This expansion marks their entry into regional markets beyond English and Hindi. NDTV aims to obtain licenses for these channels and will announce the launch dates upon approval. The TV news market in India is fragmented but holds a significant share of ad volumes. 4        To round off business news, starting from July 1, 2023, all payments made to foreign vendors or payments in foreign currency using international credit cards will be subject to a higher rate of Tax Collected at Source (TCS) at 20%. The Indian government has expanded the scope of the Liberalised Remittance Scheme to include transactions conducted through credit cards outside of India. Previously, TCS on such transactions was taxed at 5%. Entertainment news 1        Over to news from the entertainment world. The Delhi High Court has ordered Twitter to provide details of accounts leaking clips from Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming film, Jawan. The production house behind the film, Red Chillies Entertainments Pvt. Ltd., sought disclosure of the account users' information, including IP addresses and phone numbers. The court also instructed YouTube, Twitter, and Reddit to block and remove any infringing content. 2        In more news, the Malayalam film, 2018: Everyone is a Hero, directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, has received critical acclaim from both critics and audiences, alike. The performances of the cast, direction, screenplay, music, production design, and CGI/VFX are highly praised. It grossed 100 crores after 11 days of release and is the highest-grossing Malayalam film of the year and third-grossing Malayalam film of all time, to date. 3        In news from Hollywood, Loki season 2 will premiere on October 6th, bringing back the beloved God of Mischief and continuing the Multiversal mayhem. Following Loki, the action-packed Echo series will debut on November 29th, featuring Alaqua Cox's Maya Lopez and appearances by Vincent D'Onofrio's Wilson Fisk (Kingpin) and Charlie Cox's Daredevil. Marvel Studios aims to keep fans captivated with their expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Sports news 1        In sports news, struggling Hyderabad will face Bangalore in a must-win match on May 18th. Bangalore, with hopes for a top-four finish, will rely on skipper Virat Kohli's return to form. Hyderabad, already out of the race, will aim to salvage pride in their remaining two games. 2        In ongoing news, World number seven Holger Rune caused an upset by defeating Novak Djokovic at the Italian Open, while Iga Swiatek's winning streak ended due to a leg injury. Rune won against Djokovic for the second time, and Swiatek retired during her match against Rybakina. Rybakina will face Jelena Ostapenko in the semi-finals. 3        Wrapping up sports news, Manchester City dominated Real Madrid in a 4-0 victory, securing their place in the Champions League final. Bernardo Silva scored twice, while an own goal by Eder Militao and a late strike from Julian Alvarez completed the triumph. City is now only three wins away from replicating Manchester United's historic treble. Weather 1        Last, but not least, Bengaluru is experiencing scorching temperatures with an average of 33.1°C in May. The lack of rain can be attributed to factors like vegetation loss, the urban heat island effect, and unsustainable urbanization. In the past, rain would usually occur when temperatures exceeded 34°C, but this pattern has not been observed recently. 2        And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. The evening of May 18th is expected to be mostly cloudy with a high temperature of 30°C and a low temperature of 25°C. Moving on to May 19th, the daytime will be generally clear, with a high of 34°C. However, during the night, it will become partly cloudy with a low temperature of 22°C.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

18th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with election updates. Congress leader Randeep Surjewala denied reports of Siddaramaiah becoming the next Karnataka chief minister and stated that deliberations are still ongoing. A decision is expected soon, with the new cabinet forming within the next two to three days. DK Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah are the main contenders. DK Shivakumar was scheduled to meet Kharge and Rahul Gandhi at 6 PM on May 17th for a second round of meetings.  2. In other headlines, acting CM Basavaraj Bommai thanked state officials for their cooperation and bold decisions. He discussed the administration's challenges, successful management of COVID-19 and floods, and peaceful elections. Bommai emphasized officials' role in important policies, development, and urged long-term commitment. He also mentioned analyzing election defeat and commented on party matters and the appointment of Praveen Sood as CBI director. 3. In some more news, despite successful projects like the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway and Upper Bhadra River, the BJP faced a major setback in Karnataka's Assembly polls. Voters favored Congress' promises of freebies and welfare initiatives, while BJP's handling of Muslim issues and perceived arrogance contributed to their defeat. Opposition leaders highlighted the state's revenue contribution to the central government. 4. Up next, the high court dismissed two private complaints against IPS officer Bheemashankar S Guled, one accusing him of sexual harassment and the other of money laundering. Guled argued that the allegations were false and that his wife denied them. The court found the complaints to be retaliatory and an abuse of the legal process. 5. In some shocking news, a 56-year-old man was arrested at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport for smoking a beedi on an Akasa Air flight. The accused, M Praveen Kumar, was charged with endangering the lives of fellow passengers. This marks the first such arrest at the airport for smoking a beedi. Kumar claimed he was unaware of the no-smoking rule because he was a first-time flyer. 6. Moving on, industrialists, hoteliers, and power-intensive sectors expressed disappointment over the recent power tariff increase. The 70 paise per unit hike imposed by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission, or KERC, is the highest in a decade, potentially raising operational costs by 30% and impacting production expenses. Concerns about the quality and uninterrupted supply of power have also been raised. 7. Meanwhile, despite fewer rainy days in 2023 compared to the previous year, dengue cases have increased in Karnataka. The Department of Health and Family Welfare reported 1,716 cases by May 11, 2023, compared to 1,335 cases during the same period in 2022. Health experts urge authorities to take serious action to reduce dengue cases. The Health Department plans to conduct awareness programs, including running a "Dengue Chariot" and advocacy sessions, to educate the public on preventive measures. 8. On a different note, Jarracharra, an exhibition of screen-printed textiles designed by native Australians, is underway at Bangalore International Centre. These fine works of art, depicting ancient narratives, are creations of artists from the Babbarra Women’s Centre located in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory of Australia. The exhibition is on a world tour, with India being its eighth stop and Bengaluru, the fifth Indian city. The exhibition will be open till May 25th. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Join the Bollywood Dance Workshop by Motley Dance Company at Lahe Lahe, Kodihalli, every Friday from 8:30-9:30 PM. 2. Enjoy a tribute to Coldplay and Ed Sheeran by Nikhil Vai Collective at the Hard Rock Cafe in Whitefield on May 20th at 9 PM. 3. But wait, there's more. Saikiran, India's top trending English stand-up comedian, will be performing his stand-up show called "Nearly Nice Guy" at Long Boat Brewing Co. in Marathahalli on May 20th at 6 PM. 4. Laugh out loud at "SuperMayan - Parent Edition," a comedy special featuring comedian Mayandi KR at Just BLR on Brigade Road on May 21st at 5:30 PM. 5. Experience the enchanting house music of Marsh on his worldwide album tour for 'Endless' at the Sunburn Union, Koramangala on May 21st at 7 PM. National News1. Moving on to the national news. Dharmesh Sharma, a judicial officer of Delhi Higher Judicial Services and former Principal District and Sessions Judge of Dwarka Courts, was sworn in as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court today, May 17th. The appointment was made by the Union Government and announced by Law Minister Kiren Rijiju on Twitter. 2. Meanwhile, The National Investigation Agency, or NIA, is conducting raids at over 100 locations across six states, including Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, in connection with cases related to the narco-terror-gangster nexus. The NIA registered three cases last year, uncovering a network involved in targeted killings, violent crimes, and smuggling of arms and explosives. So far, 19 individuals have been arrested in connection with the network. 3. Up next, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the international museum expo on May 18th at Pragati Maidan, as part of the ongoing Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. The theme for this year is "Museums, Sustainability, and Well Being," highlighting museums' contribution to sustainable development and well-being. The event aims to foster international collaboration and exchange in the field of cultural heritage, with the participation of delegations from cultural institutions and museums worldwide. 4. Shifting our focus, The National Testing Agency, or NTA, has rescheduled the CUET-UG due to high candidate numbers in certain cities. The exam, initially scheduled from May 21st to May 31st, will now take place on June 1st and 2nd and June 5th and 6th, with reserve days on June 7th and 8th. The NTA aims to address past glitches by offering additional computers and allowing centers within a 100-km range of candidates. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, the Quad Leaders Summit in Sydney on May 24th has been cancelled as US President Joe Biden postponed his visit to Australia due to domestic debt ceiling negotiations. Biden will return to the US after the G7 Summit in Japan on May 20, and Quad leaders may meet during the G7 Summit in Hiroshima. 2. In more news today, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a military satellite facility where the military reconnaissance satellite No. 1 will be launched, according to state media. Kim authorized the next stages of the launch preparation, stating its importance for national security. The exact launch date has not been disclosed. South Korean experts have raised concerns about North Korea's satellite reconnaissance capabilities without external assistance. 3. In some tragic news, Singapore executed a man for drug trafficking, marking its second execution in three weeks. The city-state has strict anti-narcotics laws, with trafficking over 500 grams of cannabis carrying the death penalty. The executions have sparked an international outcry, with calls to abolish the death penalty in Singapore. Thirteen death row inmates have been executed since March 2022. 4. In some positive news, Nepali climber Kami Rita Sherpa reclaimed the record for the most summits of Mount Everest, reaching the top for the 27th time. He guided a Vietnamese climber during the ascent. The 53-year-old had held the title since 2018 and has been climbing Everest almost every year since 1994. Sherpa, known as "the Everest man," comes from a family of successful mountaineers. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. Vaishnavi Group has leased 4.12 lakh square feet of office space to Navi Technologies in Bengaluru's Vaishnavi Tech Square. The nine-year and 11-month lease deal is one of the largest office leasing deals this year. The office features employee-friendly amenities, and the leasing activity reflects the growing demand for Grade A commercial properties in Bengaluru. Office leasing in Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Chennai accounted for the majority of transaction activity in Q1 2023. 2. In more business news, investments in India's hospitality sector are projected to surpass $2.3 billion in the next two to five years, as per a report by CBRE South Asia. The report predicts over $0.4 billion in investment between 2020 and 2023. It also expects increased hotel room additions and growth in key performance indicators such as occupancy rates and revenue per available room. 3. Moving on, Indian LNG buyers, including Petronet LNG Ltd., GAIL India Ltd., and Indian Oil Corp., are seeking long-term supply deals lasting up to 20 years to protect themselves from price surges. This shift aims to reduce exposure to the volatile spot market, supporting the government's plan to increase the share of gas in India's energy mix. Buyers are in talks with suppliers in the US, Qatar, and the UAE. 4. In the share market, domestic indices extended previous session’s losses and ended in red. The NSE Nifty 50 dropped by 104.75 points or 0.57% to reach 18,181.75, while the BSE Sensex fell by 371.83 points or 0.60% to settle at 61,560.64. Meanwhile, Bank Nifty fell 205 points or 0.47% to 43,698.70, Nifty IT tanked 273.05 points or 0.97% to 27,942.95 and Nifty Realty plunged 6.30 points or 1.33% to 465.80.  Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Union Minister L. Murugan and Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga represented India at the Cannes Film Festival. Murugan donned a white shirt with the national flag and G20 logo, paired with a traditional 'Veshti,' while Guneet wore a golden-tone saree. The India Pavilion, designed based on the Saraswati Yantra, will showcase India's creative economy and cultural heritage. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, known as the queen of Cannes, departed for the festival today from Mumbai with her daughter Aaradhya Bachchan. 2. In some fashion news, celebrities including Priyanka Chopra, BLACKPINK's Lisa, Zendaya, and Anne Hathaway recently graced a BVLGARI event in Venice. Priyanka wowed in a dark red cut-out dress, while Lisa stole the show in black. Zendaya opted for an off-shoulder black outfit, and Anne Hathaway dazzled in gold and white. As global ambassadors, they adorned themselves with Bulgari Diamonds, earning admiration and love from fans. 3. In news from Hollywood, the trailer for Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious Saga, is out, promising an action-packed adventure. In the new trailer, the makers up the ante by several notches after taking its characters to space, and finally back to the earth for an ultimate battle. Jason Momoa is introduced as the baddie. Fast X releases in cinemas on May 19th. Sports1. In sports news, Punjab will face Delhi in the IPL on May 17th. Punjab have won six and lost six of their twelve matches and are expected to field an unchanged team. Captain Shikhar Dhawan has scored 356 runs this season, while Arshdeep Singh has taken 16 wickets. Nathan Ellis is expected to be the Impact player if Punjab bowl in the second innings. 2. In ongoing tennis news, Novak Djokovic advanced to the Italian Open quarter-finals with a comfortable win over Cameron Norrie, while Andrey Rublev and Jannik Sinner suffered early exits. Djokovic will face Holger Rune in a rematch of last year's Paris Masters final. In the women's draw, Iga Swiatek extended her winning streak in Rome to 14 matches. 3. Wrapping up sports news, for the first time in 13 years, Inter Milan secured their spot in the Champions League final after defeating AC Milan 3-0 on aggregate, with Lautaro Martinez scoring the only goal of the match. Despite being considered underdogs, Inter's strong performance suggests they will be a formidable opponent. Martinez praised the team's unity in the all-Milan clash. Weather1. Last, but not least, experts attribute the current dry weather in the city to Cyclone Mocha, which depleted moisture along its track. The delayed arrival of the South West Monsoon in India, which is likely to hit Bengaluru in the first week of June, could be affected by El Nino. Eye-related ailments are on the rise due to the hot and dry weather. To maintain eye health, it is advised to ensure proper hydration, minimize screen time, and avoid outdoor activities during midday when the sun is at its strongest. 2. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. On the evening of May 17th, anticipate mostly cloudy conditions with a maximum temperature of 32°C and a minimum temperature of 26°C. As for May 18th, the day is expected to have predominantly clear skies with a high of 34°C and a low of 22°C.      That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

17th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with the latest update on the Karnataka Assembly elections. Congress party members in Karnataka are still awaiting a decision on who will be the state's next chief minister, despite the party's clear victory in the recent assembly polls. Party president D K Shivakumar and former chief minister Siddaramiah have both traveled to Delhi to discuss the issue with senior leadership, including Rahul Gandhi. The Congress Legislature Party has passed a resolution granting party president Mallikarjun Kharge the power to choose the next chief minister. 2. In other headlines, the Congress' dilemma in choosing the next chief minister of Karnataka has sparked new claims from caste groups. The Lingayat community, represented by the All India Veershaiva Mahasabha, seeks the top post, while the Dalit community supports veteran Congress leader G Parameshwara. As both communities played a role in Congress's victory, the party faces pressure to maintain their support in the upcoming general election. 3. In some more news, the BJP made marginal gains in Bengaluru despite the Congress wave in the assembly elections. The party is hopeful of capturing BBMP and retaining all three city parliamentary seats in the 2024 general elections. BJP's performance is attributed to PM Narendra Modi's popularity. Winning 16 out of 28 seats, the party remains optimistic about its prospects in the city. 4. Up next, the AI and Robotics Technology Park (ARTPARK) at IISc is developing an artificial intelligence-powered dashboard to predict and track dengue outbreaks in Bengaluru. The dashboard, developed in collaboration with the BBMP, will utilize data from various sources including dengue records, weather data, mobility data, and growth patterns. The predictive model will aid in better preparedness and response to the mosquito-borne disease. 5. Moving on, Kempegowda International Airport and IndiGo airline have been ordered to pay Rs 12.1 lakh in compensation to the family of a passenger who died of a heart attack. The family sued the airport and airline for failure to provide timely wheelchair and medical assistance, resulting in the passenger's death. The consumer court criticized the inaction and emphasized the need for a safe environment for passengers. 6. Now, onto other news, a bike-borne thief stole a BTech student's mobile phone in Bengaluru after borrowing it on the pretext of making an emergency call. The man managed to escape with the phone while the victim was distracted. A case of theft and cheating has been registered, and efforts are underway to apprehend the culprit. 7. Meanwhile, Bengaluru Traffic Police is set to introduce QR code-enabled displays in over 3 lakh auto-rickshaws to optimize traffic management and improve transparency. Currently pending approval, this follows a pilot test in January. The previous system displaying driver details, including license, registration, contact, and address became unworkable as many drivers refused to comply. 8. On a different note, Tata Group has acquired Wistron's Narasapura factory in Bengaluru to manufacture Apple's iPhones in India. Following a meeting between Apple CEO Tim Cook and Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran, Wistron is expected to exit Apple operations. Tata officials have started working at the factory, supporting Apple's aim to establish a production hub in India. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Enjoy live stand-up comedy at Bistro Claytopia presented by Comedy Shots, from May 16th to May 18th. 2. Laugh out loud at Jokes Aaj Kal, presented by Blue Bulb Comedy at Nirula's, Indiranagar from May 17th to May 19th. 3. But wait, there's more. Attend the Music Jam on May 17th for a soulful evening of music at Lahe Lahe, Indiranagar at 7:30 PM 4. Groove at the Midweek Techno, the only techno night in town, featuring music producer Siva Prayojan, along with Shivabudha, Bassbreaker, and Soulcity at Raw Experience, Koramangala, on May 17th at 8 PM. 5. Attend a guided painting workshop at Paint Bar, Sadashivanagar, on May 17th from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. National News1. Moving on to the national news. India's new Parliament building is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month to commemorate nine years of his government. The four-storey building, costing Rs 970 crores, will accommodate 1,224 MPs and feature a Constitution hall, dining areas, and ample parking. The inauguration coincides with the BJP's month-long "special contact campaign" across the country. 2. Meanwhile, the UGC launched an online portal to connect higher education institutions with industry experts as professors of practice (PoPs), bridging the gap between academia and industry. Experts can register and upload their biodata, while the UGC will engage with industrial bodies. They also introduced the UTSAH portal to monitor NEP 2020 implementation and revamped their website. 3. Shifting our focus, a school in south Delhi received a bomb threat via email early in the morning of May 16th, prompting a search operation by the police. The threat was later deemed a hoax as no suspicious items were found. Similar incidents have occurred in the national capital this year, and investigations are underway to identify the sender of the email. 4. In some pleasant news, a new species of flying gecko has been discovered in Mizoram. Named Gekko mizoramensis, it is mainland India's first species of flying gecko. The 20 cm-long gecko is arboreal, nocturnal, and flies between trees. The finding was published in the journal Salamandra, with researchers noting genetic and morphological differences from related species. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, Taiwan's new amendment grants same-sex couples the right to jointly adopt children, marking progress for marriage equality. Despite legalizing same-sex marriage in 2019, adoption restrictions persisted. The amendment eliminates these barriers, ensuring equal parental rights for all couples. Taiwan remains at the forefront of Asia's LGBTQ rights movement, with ongoing advocacy for additional rights, including recognition of Taiwanese-Chinese marriages. 2. In more news today, OpenAI's Sam Altman, creator of ChatGPT, will testify in a congressional hearing on the impact of AI. The discussion will focus on ChatGPT's societal implications and the need for regulations. Altman's influence extends to the White House and bipartisan gatherings, emphasizing the importance of cautious AI development. 3. The Biden administration announced to offer rural electric cooperatives and utilities $11 billion in grants and loans for clean energy projects. This funding supports the expansion of clean energy in rural communities and the administration's net-zero emissions goal. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasizes rural America's role in the clean energy economy, helping cooperatives compete with private utilities. 4. In a recent development, India is considering supporting Greece and other nations in reclaiming artifacts from the UK as part of a global initiative against "colonial appropriation." India's Ministry of Culture aims to form an alliance of nations seeking cultural returns and raise the issue at the G20 meeting. The UK's trade ties with India and international support for cultural reparations may isolate the UK if it opposes India's efforts. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. Amazon has reportedly laid off around 500 employees in India as part of CEO Andy Jassy's broader downsizing plan affecting 9,000 employees. The layoffs are occurring across different departments, including Web Services, Human Resources, and Support. Amazon's e-commerce business in India has faced challenges and a slowdown in growth, reflecting difficult market conditions. 2. In more business news, NITI Aayog has proposed blended financing and green bonds to attract private investment in small modular reactors, or SMRs, for clean energy transition. The report highlighted the need to update the regulatory framework to accommodate different SMR technologies. SMRs offer stable power and flexibility for renewable integration, emphasizing the importance of private investment, coordinated regulations, and supportive policies for successful deployment. 3. Moving on, India plans to file a complaint with the WTO against the EU's proposed high-carbon import tariffs. The move aims to challenge the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and address the issue in bilateral talks. India deems the levy discriminatory, questioning its legality and seeking relief for exporters, especially small businesses. 4. In the share market on May 17th, despite positive global cues, benchmark indices opened flat. The NSE Nifty 50 traded at 18,394.45, while the BSE Sensex stood at 62,341.06. In sectoral indices, Bank Nifty dropped 110.6 points or 0.25% to 43,961, and Nifty Financial Services declined 83 points or 0.42% to 19,500.20. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Renowned Malayalam film producer and distributor PKR Pillai, known for bankrolling superstar Mohanlal's iconic films, passed away at the age of 92. His films like Chithram and Vandanam achieved great success, while others like Amrutham Gamaya, Aham, and Kizhakkunarum Pakshi received critical acclaim. In his final years, Pillai faced financial distress and struggled to afford basic necessities. 2. In some shocking news, LYCA Productions, the renowned film production company behind the successful movies Ponniyin Selvan 1 and 2, is currently being subjected to searches by the Enforcement Directorate. The searches are taking place at approximately eight locations in Chennai following the registration of a money laundering case against the production house by the central probe agency. 3. Meanwhile, Johnny Depp's new French movie "Jeanne du Barry" premiered at the 76th edition of the Cannes Film Festival on May 16th. The film, about the 18th-century monarch who fell in love with a sex worker, features Depp in most parts. This marks his return to the big screen after his bitter legal battle with Amber Heard. Several Indian and Hollywood stars will grace the red carpet during the 10-day festival, including Michael Douglas, who will receive the Palme d'Or. Sports News1. In sports news, Gujarat became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2023 playoffs, while Hyderabad were knocked out. Three playoff spots remain with seven teams in contention. Chennai and Mumbai are frontrunners. Out of the seven teams, Mumbai, Lucknow, Bangalore, and Punjab have two matches left, while Chennai, Rajasthan, and Kolkata have one. 2. In ongoing news, Lucknow will face Mumbai on the evening of May 16th, with their playoff hopes still alive. Led by Krunal Pandya, Lucknow have won 6 out of 12 games. The predicted XI includes Quinton de Kock, Kyle Mayers, Nicholas Pooran, Prerak Mankad, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Marcus Stoinis, Avesh Khan, Yash Thakur, Amit Mishra, and Ravi Bishnoi. Impact players could be Yudhvir Singh, Deepak Hooda, and Yash Thakur. 3. Wrapping up sports news, Man United reportedly will prioritize signing Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur, aiming to strengthen their forward line in the summer transfer window. Kane's impressive season, with 29 goals and five assists, makes him an attractive option. Convincing Spurs chairman Daniel Levy and navigating Kane's contract situation will be key challenges for United. Weather1. And finally, on the evening of May 16th, the skies in the city will be partly cloudy, with a high temperature of 31°C and a low temperature of 27°C. The weather forecast for May 17th is mostly sunny with generally clear conditions. The high temperature is expected to reach 34 degrees Celsius, while the low temperature will be around 23 degrees Celsius.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

16th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Senior Congress leader and former CM Siddaramaiah headed to New Delhi on May 15th afternoon for a crucial meeting with the party high command. He will be meeting Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in the national capital and also likely to meet Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. Meanwhile, the party reportedly invited Congress state boss and another CM contender DK Shivakumar for a meeting in the national capital, but he has not confirmed his visit.  2. In other headlines, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala, after a late-night meeting of Congress MLAs in Bengaluru on May 14th, stated that the party's national president Mallikarjun Kharge will decide the next chief minister of Karnataka. Surjewala acknowledged Kharge's seniority and his deep connection to Karnataka, expressing confidence in his prompt decision-making. A unanimous resolution was passed by the Congress party, granting Kharge the authority to make the selection. 3. In some more news, the Karnataka election results came as no surprise to the Kannada web portal eedina.com, which accurately predicted the outcome well in advance. Their "mega survey" conducted on April 26-27 correctly projected the Congress party winning 132 to 140 seats, the BJP securing 57 to 65 seats, and the Janata Dal (Secular) receiving 19 to 25 seats. Congress's actual victory with 135 seats surpassed expectations. 4. Up next, the recent changes in leadership in Karnataka and the Ministerial council in Tamil Nadu have necessitated the reconstitution of three Ministerial panels within the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council. These panels are responsible for recommending crucial reforms to the indirect tax system. The panel on rationalization of rate structures, which was chaired by outgoing Karnataka CM Basavaraj S. Bommai, will require a new convenor as a result of his exit from power. The Council will need to address these changes and also appoint a new minister from six other states. 5. Moving on, illegal hoardings have reemerged in Bengaluru despite the 2018 ban by the High Court. Supporters of newly-elected MLAs have displayed congratulatory posters, while chief ministerial candidates gain support through similar installations. The BBMP failed to enforce its own resolution and court order. Violations breach disfigurement and single-use plastic laws. The court has criticized the BBMP for leniency. 6. Now, onto other news, a Nigerian was caught with 1 kg of cocaine, worth Rs 11 crores, at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. X-Ray scans confirmed that the drug smuggler had swallowed 64 capsules carrying the drug, and was nabbed by sleuths of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence on April 28th. He was arrested and is currently lodged at Central Jail. 7. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force has signed an MoU to transfer land in Jalahalli, Bengaluru, to K-RIDE for the suburban rail project, according to the Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka) Ltd. K-RIDE officials stated that the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project's Mallige line has moved from the drawing board to the execution phase. Land acquisition, boundary wall construction, and geotechnical investigations are complete, while the batching plant's establishment is underway in three locations. 8. On a different note, with the state head of police Praveen Sood taking over as the CBI director later this month, the new government will have to choose his successor. However, the preparation of a list of senior IPS officers eligible for the post of director general and inspector general of police (DG&IGP), to be forwarded to the Union government for approval, awaits the new dispensation to take charge. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Join the Pottery Workshop at Lahe Lahe on Saturdays and Sundays. Learn the art of hand-building and throwing pots on the potter's wheel. 2. Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy at "Baking Jokes in Kalyan Nagar" at Glens BakeHouse on 16th May at 8 PM. 3. But wait, there's more. Join the Bottle Decoupage Workshop at ArtBeat Studio on 25th May at 2:15 PM. Here's Ms Namratha GN, the founder of ArtBeat, to tell us more about the event. 4. Celebrate Mother's Day with iDare and Mum21 at Mother's Day Mingle on 20th May, 3 PM, at Dialogues Cafe, Koramangala. Enjoy an empowering event focused on women's health and wellness. Let's hear from Vidhya Shanmugam, a women's wellness coach and the founder of Mum21, telling us more about the event. 5. Catch Penn Masala, the world's first South Asian "A Cappella" group, on their India Tour at Farzi Cafe on 26th May at 8 PM. National News1. Moving on to the national news. A court in Punjab has summoned Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in a ₹100 crore defamation case filed by Hitesh Bhardwaj, the founder of Hindu Suraksha Parishad, against Mr. Kharge for allegedly making defamatory remarks against Bajrang Dal during the recently concluded Karnataka Assembly elections, news agency ANI reported. The Congress manifesto proposing to ban the Bajrang Dal heated up the latter half of the campaign. 2. Meanwhile, the active Covid cases in the country have declined to 14,493. India has logged 801 new coronavirus infections, while the active cases have dipped to 14,493 from 15,515, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on May 15th. The active cases now comprise 0.03% of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 98.78%, the ministry said. 3. Shifting our focus, in a significant move, the Taliban has appointed a chargé d'affaires to lead the Afghanistan embassy in India, as confirmed by a senior Taliban leader. The diplomatic representative, Qadir Shah, is reportedly already associated with the embassy and is not being sent from Kabul. While the Indian government has not recognized the current administration in Kabul, it views this development as an internal matter of the Taliban. The official communication of this decision to the Indian government is yet to be confirmed. 4. In some shocking news, A male passenger was arrested for allegedly molesting an air hostess on board a Dubai-Amritsar flight in an inebriated state, police said on May 15th. Rajinder Singh, who hails from Kotli village of Jalandhar in Punjab, got into a heated argument with the air hostess and allegedly molested her on May 12th, police said. The crew members then notified the Amritsar control room and the assistant security manager of the airline lodged a police complaint.  International News1. Turning our attention to international news, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, has alleged that the country's powerful military establishment intends to imprison him for a decade on sedition charges. Khan has pledged to fight against the "assortments of crooks" until his last breath. The Islamabad High Court had granted Khan bail until May 9 and instructed him to seek further relief from the Lahore High Court. He is expected to appear before the Lahore High Court in relation to cases filed against him for incidents of violence following his arrest in a corruption case.  2. In more news today, A 78-year-old U.S. citizen, John Shing-Wan Leung, was sentenced to life imprisonment in China on May 15th on charges of espionage. The case highlights the deteriorating relationship between Beijing and Washington. Details of the specific charges against Leung, who holds permanent residency in Hong Kong, have not been made public. His detention took place in April 2021, during China's strict COVID-19 measures, and little information is released about such cases beyond general accusations of threatening state security. 3. In a recent development, Thai opposition leader Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward Party is leading the popular vote in the country's general election, with most votes counted. Pita's party has achieved an extraordinary feat since his forerunner was dissolved, and his leadership was banned from politics. Pita has been campaigning dynamically to reach voters disillusioned and yearning for change after eight years of military-backed government. MFP is the only party promising to reform Thailand's lese majeste laws, known as 112, which has long been an untouchable subject in Thai politics. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. RuPay, operated by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has announced the introduction of a CVV-free payment experience for its debit, credit, and prepaid cardholders. By tokenizing their cards on supporting merchant applications or webpages, users can enjoy a seamless payment process without the need to retrieve their wallet or recall card details. Tokenization technology ensures secure transactions without sharing actual card information with merchants. 2. In more business news, India's retail inflation dropped to an 18-month low of 4.7% in April, remaining below the Reserve Bank of India's 6% tolerance limit for the second consecutive month. The decline was attributed to base effects from last year's high of 7.8%. Inflation for urban consumers decreased to 4.85% in April, while rural consumers saw a moderation to 4.7%. Food price inflation eased to 3.84%. However, economists expressed concerns about higher inflation in pulses and personal care products, as well as rising prices of cereals and milk. 3. Moving on, in a first, Samsung Executive Chairman Jay Y. Lee met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk to discuss ways to cooperate in future high-tech industries. The two companies are currently seeking ways to cooperate in the development of IT-related technologies, such as semiconductors for autonomous vehicles, Samsung added. The meeting was held during Lee's trip to the United States. 4. In the share market, The Indian stock market saw positive movements as the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 closed the session with gains of 0.5% each. The Nifty 50 finished at 18,398.85, just below the 18,400 mark and down 60 points from its intraday peak. Meanwhile, the Sensex ended 317 points higher at 62,346. The broader markets also showed positive trends, with the Nifty Smallcap 50 rising by 0.9% and the Nifty Midcap 50 gaining 1%. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Don 3 has been in the news for the longest time. Fans frequently take to social media to question the makers about its shooting and release date. Now, producer Ritesh Sidhwani has given a big update regarding the third installment and said that the film is currently in the scripting stage and that director Farhan Akhtar is finishing it. 2. In news from Hollywood, in the latest teaser of Aquaman 2, DC Studios officially revealed that Amber Heard will return as Mera. It seems fans aren’t happy and are ready to boycott the sequel because of it. Fans are fuming as Johnny Depp was instantly replaced in Fantastic Beasts as the scandal broke out. Now #BoycottAquaman2 is trending on Twitter, clearly, fans are not at all liking Heard's presence in the upcoming sequel. 3. Meanwhile, after a gap of two years, Malayam actress Urvashi is set to make a comeback with a comedy-mystery film "Charles Enterprises," written and directed by debutant Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian. The film will hit the theatres on May 19. Charles Enterprises is said to be centred around the lives of Tamils residing in Kochi and emphasizes the impact of friendship and language barriers on family dynamics.  Sports News1. In sports news, Gujarat are set to face Hyderabad on May 15th. Gujarat's predicted XI includes key player David Miller in the middle order. Gujarat is currently at the top of the table with 16 points and is likely to make minimal changes to their playing XI. Shubman Gill and Wriddhiman Saha will open, followed by Vijay Shankar, Hardik Pandya, and Abhinav Manohar. The bowling attack will feature Mohammed Shami, Rashid Khan, and others. 2. In ongoing news, Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek advance to the Italian Open last 16. Djokovic defeated Grigor Dimitrov in a three-set battle, while Swiatek dominated Lesia Tsurenko. Djokovic, a six-time Rome champion, expressed satisfaction with his performance and will face Cameron Norrie in the next round. Swiatek, aiming for her third consecutive Rome title, will play against Donna Vekic. 3. Wrapping up sports news, Barcelona clinched their 27th La Liga title with a 4-2 victory over Espanyol. Robert Lewandowski scored twice, while Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde also found the net. Xavi Hernandez won his first major trophy as Barcelona's coach, signaling significant improvement for the club. The match was marred by pitch invaders and angry scenes at full time Weather1. Last, but not least, Mocha made landfall near Sittwe township with winds blowing up to 209 kilometers per hour, Myanmar’s Meteorological Department said. By May 15th morning, it was downgraded from its severe status and was steadily weakening over land, according to the India Meteorological Department. High winds crumpled cell phone towers during the day, cutting off communications. Climate scientists say cyclones can now retain their energy for many days.  2. And finally, on the evening of May 15th, the weather in Bengaluru will be partly cloudy, with a high temperature of 30°C and a low temperature of 26°C. The following day, May 16th, is expected to be clear and sunny, with a high of 34°C and a low of 22°C.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

15th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with some election news. Karnataka is eagerly awaiting the results of the assembly elections, with the possibility of a JD(S)-Congress alliance emerging once again. The JD(S) may play a decisive role in the formation of the government. Exit polls suggest a potential hung assembly. All parties have expressed confidence in their ability to form the new government, setting the stage for a close contest.  2. Moving on, the Bengaluru Traffic Police is preparing for the monsoon by equipping all officials with raincoats and umbrellas. Measures are being taken to address specific issues and blackspots through meetings with stakeholders and officers in the coming days, ensuring prompt response to traffic congestion during heavy rainfall. 3. Up next, Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project, or BSRP, has commenced groundwork for the Mallige Line after an eight-month delay. Utilities along the line have been shifted, and construction of piers is scheduled to begin soon. Land acquisition and preliminary work are progressing, and tenders for station construction and depot design are forthcoming. The project's timely completion is uncertain, and tenders for other lines await election outcomes and funding arrangements. 4. In other headlines, Bengaluru's National Common Mobility Card, or NCMC, introduced on March 25, 2023, is struggling to gain popularity among passengers. The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has not yet accepted NCMCs on its buses, causing delays in implementation. Despite technical glitches, authorities remain optimistic about the card's potential to integrate different transport modes. 5. Now, onto other news, a 37-year-old woman in Bengaluru was assaulted by a driver near her residence on May 8th. The suspect, Ratan Kumar, was arrested by the police. The victim, living alone in Gantiganahalli, had been unaware of Kumar's intentions despite his repeated attempts to gain her trust. She suffered injuries but received medical care. Kumar confessed to targeting her after she moved into the building. 6. Meanwhile, the Consulate General of Italy in Bengaluru and Srishti Manipal School of Art and Design are collaborating to host EUROPA, an exhibition featuring renowned Italian illustrators. The event, held on Europe Day, will run from May 12th to 26th at Srishti's 'Rooh ground floor.' The exhibition will showcase 16 artworks and will be inaugurated by esteemed guests, including the Consul General of Italy, the Consul Generals of The Netherlands, Canada, and Japan, and the founder of Srishti. 7. In some conservation news, Bengaluru-based NGO, Bannerghatta Nature Conservation Trust, sent an open letter to PM Narendra Modi, raising concerns about unauthorized construction near Bannerghatta National Park and the delay in setting up the Eco Sensitive Zone, or ESZ, monitoring committee. The reduced ESZ threatens wildlife and ecology. The letter urges intervention and withdrawal of the 2018 ESZ notification. Here is Mr Sanjeev Pednekar, the founder of Prani- The Pet Sanctuary, telling us more. 8. On a different note, Vinod Gunasekaran, an MBA graduate from Mangalore University, launched Bengaluru's first Milk ATM, under his startup V Dairy Ventures. The 24/7 machine is currently installed in two apartments in Horamavu, and provides undiluted, unprocessed cow milk and accepts various denominations of currency. Customers can fill their own containers and can also use special debit cards for purchases. Expansion plans are underway for more Milk ATMs in Bengaluru and Karnataka. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Sing your heart out at Karaoke Night at Marcopolo Cafe in Koramangala taking place from May 12th to May 17th.  2. Witness the enchanting show "Bending Reality - Magic, Mentalism & Mischief" featuring professional magicians Waseem, Sanjay, and Sathwik. Experience their elegant style of magic and mentalism at Artkhoj in JP Nagar on May 13th at 6 PM. Here is Sanjay, one of the artists, to tell us more about the show. 3. Punit Pania is set to perform live for his stand-up comedy show, "The Never Ending Tour," at the Hyatt Centric on MG Road on May 14th at 6 PM. 4. But wait, there's more. Celebrate Mother's Day with a special pottery workshop for moms and kids at Lahe Lahe on May 14th from 10 AM to 11 AM. 5. Gipsy Kings will be performing at BYG Brewsky Brewing Company in Hennur, Bengaluru. The concert is scheduled for June 4th at 4 PM, and will feature some of their greatest hits like Bamboleo, Un Amor, and Djobi Djoba. National News1. Moving on to the national news. Nurse Shanti Teresa Lakra, known for her service to primitive tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Jincy Jerry, an infection prevention and control expert in Dublin, have been selected as finalists for the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2023. Lakra aims to create an NGO for healthcare among the islanders, while Jerry's robotic system has improved nursing efficiency and patient care. The winners will be announced later on May 12th, International Nurses Day. 2. In some distressing news, despite an internal strike, the Pakistan Army is reportedly maintaining a significant number of terrorists in launchpads along the Line of Control (LoC) with India. The army is accused of sponsoring terrorism and activating Pakistani terror groups to disrupt the forthcoming G-20 meeting in the Kashmir valley. Troop numbers have not been reduced by the Pakistan Army in areas close to India. 3. In an update on international relations, President Droupadi Murmu accepted the credentials of new US Ambassador Eric Garcetti, as well as the envoys of Monaco and Qatar. Garcetti expressed his commitment to the strong US-India partnership and will focus on preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington and President Joe Biden's visit to Delhi. 4. Shifting our focus, the Indian government plans to launch a "Trusted Traveller Programme" for Indian passport holders at international airports. The pilot program will begin at Delhi and Mumbai airports this year, aiming to expedite immigration checks for pre-verified travelers. The program will eventually be implemented at 15 airports by 2027 and all airports by 2032. This initiative is intended to alleviate airport congestion and streamline the travel experience for Indian passport holders. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, China will dispatch Ambassador Li Hui as a special envoy to Ukraine, Russia, and other European countries starting May 15th to seek a "political settlement" for the war in Ukraine. Demonstrating its mediation role, China refrains from labeling it a Russian invasion and instead blames the US and NATO for provocation. President Xi Jinping emphasizes respecting sovereignty and promoting peace in the region. 2. In some ongoing news, former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been granted a two-week bail by the Islamabad High Court in the Al-Qadir Trust case. Khan's appearance in court sparked protests, and he faces multiple charges, including treason and terrorism. Reports suggest that a police team is being sent to Islamabad to arrest Khan in connection with other cases. The court proceedings are ongoing. 3. In a recent development, according to a Kyiv-based NGO, Russia is luring recruits for its forces in Ukraine with salaries up to eight times the national average. Despite suffering troop losses, the Russian government is actively trying to boost numbers, offering average monthly salaries of 300,000 roubles, that's $3,941, for war-related positions. According to the NGO's research, online ads and extensive recruitment tactics are being employed. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. The Indian Directorate General of GST Intelligence, or DGGI, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, or DRI, have discovered alleged Integrated GST evasion of ₹11,000 crores by 24 large importers. Some of the companies involved are in the steel, pharmaceutical, gems and jewellery, and textiles sectors. Tax fraud has been discovered based on data produced by the Advanced Analytics in Indirect Taxation. 2. Now, onto other news, global index provider MSCI has removed Adani Transmission, Adani Total Gas, and Indus Towers from its India index, triggering significant selling worth Rs 3,200 crores by passive funds. The decision, effective from May 31st, follows reduced free float and market cap concerns. Max Healthcare Institute, Hindustan Aeronautics, and Sona BLW Precision Forgings have been added to the index, attracting inflows. 3. In some latest updates about Twitter, Elon Musk has said he has found a new chief executive officer (CEO) to helm the social media giant he bought last year. With his viral tweet, the billionaire has triggered a frenzy on possible candidates. Linda Yaccarino, the head of advertising of NBC Universal, is said to be in the race to become the next Twitter CEO, Wall Street Journal reported. 4. In the share market on May 12th, despite starting in the negative, Indian stock indices NSE Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex recovered to close the session with modest gains. Nifty rose by 17.8 points to settle at 18,314.8, and Sensex closed at 62,027.9, up by 123.4 points. While certain sectors performed well, broader markets saw losses in Nifty Midcap 50 and Nifty Smallcap 50. Nifty Metal, Nifty Media, and Nifty IT also ended lower.  Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Director Anurag Kashyap has unveiled the much-anticipated teaser of his police-noir drama 'Kennedy'. Although the teaser keeps the plot under wraps, it sparks curiosity among viewers. Featuring Sunny Leone and Rahul Bhatt, the teaser hints at a blood-soaked, action-packed film. 'Kennedy' will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 24th, where it will be screened in the "Midnight Screening" category. 2. In a box office update, the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' has had a successful first week at the box office, collecting over ₹81 crores. Despite not being screened in some states, the film's weekday collections have exceeded those of the opening weekend. Film trade analyst Taran Adarsh predicts a strong second week and expects the film to surpass ₹200 crore and possibly reach ₹250 crores in India. 3. Meanwhile, the official trailer for 'Modern Love Chennai' has been unveiled. The series, featuring work by six prominent Indian filmmakers, will debut on May 18th. It showcases diverse perspectives on love, starring Ashok Selvan and Ritu Varma. This adaptation of the renowned 'Modern Love' franchise marks India's third installment. Directors Bharathiraja, Rajumurugan, and Krishnakumar Ramakumar express their enthusiasm for presenting unique interpretations of love. Sports News1. In sports news today, Jos Buttler has been fined 10% of his match fees for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during the match between Kolkata and Rajasthan on May 11th. The incident occurred when Buttler showed dissent after getting run-out due to a mix-up with Yashasvi Jaiswal. Despite the incident, there were no issues between the players, and Jaiswal went on to score a record-breaking innings. 2. In some ongoing news, Indian wrestlers protesting sexual harassment allegations resort to crowdfunding as their initial funds of ₹24 lakh deplete. Within four days, they raised nearly ₹6 lakh in cash donations, avoiding digital payments to prevent controversy. The funds cover daily expenses like water and meals, with plans for a wrestling competition if the protest concludes before the funds run out. 3. Wrapping up sports news, Lionel Messi is expected to make a comeback for Paris Saint-Germain after a suspension, as his departure from the club looms. Following an unremarkable stint in France, Messi is likely to play in Saudi Arabia next season, following rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The details of the contract are being finalized. Weather1. Last, but not least, The Indian Meteorological Department has announced that the severe cyclonic storm 'Mocha' has become a very severe cyclonic storm. It is moving north-northeastwards and is expected to intensify further over the east-central Bay of Bengal. The storm is predicted to cross the southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar coasts on May 14th with maximum sustained wind speeds of 150-160 kmph, gusting to 175 kmph. 2. And finally, in Bengaluru, on the evening of May 12th, expect mostly cloudy skies with a high of 30°C and a low of 24°C. May 13th will be partly cloudy, with a high of 33°C and a low of 21°C. May 14th will be mostly sunny during the day and have a pleasant evening, with a high of 33°C and a low of 21°C. No rain is expected over the weekend.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

12th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with election updates. Seven out of ten exit polls suggest that Karnataka is heading for a hung assembly, while two predict an outright victory for the Congress and one for the BJP. HD Kumaraswamy's JD(S) is expected to play a crucial role in the event of a hung house. The counting of votes will take place on May 13th. 2. Moving on, Bengaluru's low voter turnout persisted in the 2023 Assembly polls, with provisional figures ranging from 52.8% to 56.98%. The city has a history of low participation. Final figures, including postal ballots and votes from home, are pending. Awareness campaigns aimed to boost voter enrollment and engagement were conducted by the Election Commission. Karnataka achieved its highest-ever voter turnout at 72.81%, surpassing the previous record of 72.13% in 2018. 3. Up next, several citizens were disappointed when they discovered their names missing or deleted from the electoral rolls after waiting in long queues to vote. Instances of missing names and deletions without notice were reported across the city, with residents expressing frustration over the lack of response from BBMP officials. Additionally, some voters faced delays due to misspelled names that needed correction. 4. In other headlines, despite minor clashes and fights between political party workers in various locations, the assembly elections in Karnataka were largely peaceful. In one incident, a mob damaged EVMs and VVPATs in Vijayapura district. Police arrested 23 people. Similar altercations occurred in Kanakapura, Koppal, and Ballari Rural. Tensions rose in Varuna when Congress workers attempted to block a BJP candidate from entering a polling station, but police intervened. 5. In some positive news, the BBMP and the Chief Electoral Officer collaborated to enable patients undergoing treatment to vote. Manipal Hospitals proposed the initiative, and after medical evaluations, eligible patients were transported in hospital vehicles to polling booths. Sixteen patients, including transplant recipients and cancer patients, were assisted to cast their votes in various constituencies under medical supervision. 6. In more local news, Bengaluru's MG Road has been ranked as India's top high street, with four markets from the city making it to the top 10 list, according to a report by Knight Frank. The ranking is based on factors such as accessibility, parking facilities, and a diverse range of retailers. The report highlights the revival of high streets in India and their potential to provide a superior retail experience compared to malls. 7. In some shocking news, a Bengaluru woman was deceived by a man in Delhi, whom she met on a matrimonial website. According to the police, the woman lost valuables and cash. The man posed as a businessman and invited her to meet his family at a wedding. He fled with her belongings after tricking her into checking a car tire. An investigation is ongoing. 8. On a different note, Mumbai and Bengaluru ISKCON branches are embroiled in a temple control dispute, involving a dilapidated luxury bus purchased for Rs 5 lakhs. The Supreme Court is reviewing an appeal against an FIR accusing the Bengaluru unit of theft. The Bengaluru unit offered to resolve the case by buying a new bus, but the Mumbai unit refused, insisting on prosecuting the accused against ISKCON's principles. The conflict centers around ownership and management of the temple. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Agar Tum Na Hote, a concert, will take place at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on May 14th at 5:30 PM. The event will feature evergreen songs of Bollywood's first Superstar Rajesh Khanna, along with memorable and super hit songs by legendary singers like Mohd Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosale, Mukesh, Manna Dey, and more.  2. Ministry of Comedy, Koramangala is hosting "BRB: Bengalis Rampaging Bangalore," a stand-up comedy show featuring 7 talented Bengali comedians on May 13th at 9 PM. 3. But wait, there's more. Join fellow enthusiasts for Board Games Night at SmallWorld in Koramangala on May 13th and May 20th. 4. Experience vibrant talent at Jagriti Open Mic Saturdays, held every Saturday at Jagriti Theatre in Whitefield.  5. An open mic called Kids Got Talent will be held at My School of Rock on May 14th. This talent show is specifically for kids aged 5 to 13. Here's Mr Punith, the manager at My School of Rock, telling us more about the event. National News1. Moving on to the national news. A strike was initiated by private and government doctors in Kerala after the stabbing death of Dr. Vandana Das. The assailant, a teacher with a history of substance abuse, attacked her with surgical scissors and a scalpel. The doctors demanded increased protection for medical professionals, highlighting the rising attacks on healthcare workers. Authorities have been criticized for not addressing these concerns. The strike halted health services in the state. 2. In some breaking news, on May 11th, the Supreme Court delivered its verdict on the Maharashtra political turmoil. It ruled that the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government cannot be reinstated because Uddhav Thackeray resigned without undergoing a floor test. The court referred to the Nebam Rabia judgment, regarding the Speaker's power in disqualification cases, for further consideration by a seven-judge bench.  3. In some more breaking news, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Delhi government, stating that it has legislative and executive powers over services, except for public order, police, and land. The court emphasized the importance of elected governments having control over administration and rejected the notion that the Delhi government has no power over services. The verdict highlighted the unique character of Delhi and the need to maintain the federal system and representative democracy. 4. Shifting our focus, Santiniketan, the town Rabindranath Tagore lived in, has been recommended for UNESCO World Heritage List inclusion by ICOMOS. The announcement will be made in September 2023. Known for its cultural heritage and as the birthplace of Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan influenced the National Education Policy 2020. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, The US Citizenship Act 2023, introduced by Congresswoman Linda Sánchez, aims to provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, eliminate country quotas for green cards, and make changes to the H-1B visa system. The bill also focuses on family-based immigration reform and economic development. Democrats see it as a transformative framework to fix the broken immigration system and recognize the contributions of immigrants to the nation. 2. In a recent development, Pakistan's political crisis has worsened as former PM Imran Khan and several PTI leaders have been arrested for inciting violent protests amid economic stagnation and hardship. At least eight people have died due to the turmoil. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called for an end to the protests and accused Imran of abusing power. 3. In some uplifting news, Sri Lanka's Supreme Court has given the green light to a bill aiming to decriminalize homosexuality, citing landmark judgments in its ruling. The bill, seeking to amend century-old laws, had faced challenges from petitioners invoking the Constitution. LGBTQIA+ activists and allies are celebrating the move, hoping for progress and a repeal of laws criminalizing homosexuality in the country. 4. Finland's outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin and her husband Markus Raikkonen have announced their joint decision to divorce. They expressed gratitude for their time together and stated their intention to remain best friends. The couple, who share a 5-year-old daughter, married in 2020 while Marin was serving as Prime Minister amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation will invest $236 million to build an air-conditioner and compressor manufacturing facility in India. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin virtually laid the foundation stone for the factory in Thiruvallur district. Production is set to start by October 2025, creating over 2,000 jobs. The investment is part of the Japan-India Investment Promotion Partnership. 2. In other news, Ashneer Grover, co-founder of BharatPe, has been named in a police complaint for embezzlement of Rs 81 crores. The Economic Offences Wing of Delhi Police filed an FIR against Grover, his wife, and others for fraud, forgery, and breach of trust. The complaint alleges Grover stole company funds for a lavish lifestyle. The FIR accuses Grover and others of multiple criminal offenses, which could lead to life imprisonment if convicted. 3. In some automobile news, Chinese auto giant SAIC-owned MG Motor is in talks to sell its majority stake in its India car business to potential suitors including Reliance Industries, Hero Group, Premji Invest, and JSW Group. The company faces hurdles in raising funds from its parent due to government approval delays and plans to raise approximately Rs 5,000 crore by offering a majority stake to local partners. MG Motor aims to launch 4-5 new cars in India, with a focus on electric vehicles. 4. In the share market on May 11th, Sensex and Nifty saw mixed performance with gains and losses. Gujarat Gas, RVNL, and Adani Enterprises surged, while L&T, Dr Reddy's, and Hindalco faced selling pressure. Aditya Birla Capital's net profit for Q4 rose by 35% YoY, but Dr Lal Pathlabs missed profit estimates. The indices struggled to find direction amidst high volatility. Equity inflows in April dropped 70% MoM to Rs 6,480 crore, but remained positive for the 26th straight month. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. The team of The Kerala Story, which was recently made tax-free by the Uttar Pradesh government, met with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to discuss the movie and request him to watch it. The team praised the Adityanath government's efforts to curb forced religious conversion in the state. The chief minister and his colleagues are expected to attend a special screening of the film on May 12th. 2. In news from Bollywood, actress Deepika Padukone has graced the cover of Time Magazine and talked about her relationship with Ranveer Singh and India's representation at the Oscars. She also addressed the political backlash she has faced, and her upcoming projects, including action thriller film Project K and Fighter. Padukone has been credited with "bringing the world to Bollywood" and was previously named among Time's 100 Most Influential People in 2018. 3. Meanwhile, Beyoncé's "Renaissance World Tour" began on May 10th in Stockholm. Forbes predicts the tour could gross $2.4 billion in revenue, surpassing Taylor Swift's "Eras" Tour. Beyoncé's previous tours, including the "On the Run" tours with Jay-Z and the "Formation" World Tour, were all highly successful. The Renaissance World Tour will run until September 27th, with shows in various cities, including London, Amsterdam, Chicago, and Houston. Sports News1. In sports news, the BCCI is yet to announce the dates and venues for the 13th edition of the 50-overs ODI World Cup scheduled to start in October. A senior official from the Indian cricket board confirmed that discussions with the ICC are ongoing. With most title contenders focusing on test cricket, there is a lack of buzz around the tournament.  2. In some exciting news, Indian boxers Deepak Bhoria, Mohammed Hussamudin, and Nishant Dev secured bronze medals at the men's World Championships, ensuring India's best-ever haul of three medals. Deepak won in the flyweight category, Hussamudin triumphed in a close fight, and Nishant knocked out his opponent. India's previous best performance was in 2019 when they won a silver and a bronze. 3. Wrapping up sports news, in a thrilling match at the Italian Open, Fabio Fognini defeated Andy Murray in three sets. Fognini, who received a wild card entry after recovering from a foot injury, hit more than twice as many winners as Murray, securing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory. Murray's protests over a disputed call added to the intensity of the match. Meanwhile, Stan Wawrinka and Lesia Tsurenko also claimed notable victories in their respective matches. Weather1. Last, but not least, Indian Coast Guard units are on high alert following the IMD's warning of cyclonic storm 'Mocha'. The depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm. Odisha and Andhra Pradesh are not expected to be affected, but Bengal may have minimal impact. Rainfall is predicted in the northeast, and the Andaman administration has issued alerts. Jharkhand is experiencing high temperatures, and the Indian embassy in Myanmar has issued an advisory. Southern districts of Bengal face heat conditions. 2. And finally in Bengaluru, on the evening of May 11th, expect mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms. The temperature will reach a high of 28°C and a low of 24°C. On May 12th, the weather will be partly cloudy with a high of 32°C and a low of 22°C.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

11th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman cast her vote in Jayanagar during the Karnataka state assembly elections. The high-stakes battle featured intense campaigning and three major contenders: BJP, Congress, and JD(S). This election could serve as a precursor for the 2024 national elections, with BJP aiming to overcome a 38-year precedent and the Congress banking on corruption allegations. 2. Moving on, Congress MLAs Ramalinga Reddy and Sowmya Reddy filed a complaint against a BJP candidate in Jayanagar for voter intimidation. They met the Chief Electoral Officer, demanding action against those hindering voter participation. Ramalinga Reddy called for heightened security and paramilitary forces to ensure fair voting. Ex-corporator N Nagaraj noted BJP-backed rowdy elements intimidating loyal Congress supporters. 3. Up next, the Karnataka High Court lifted the ban on Bruhat Bengaluru Hotels Association from offering free food to voters during the May 10th elections. Justice T G Shivashankare Gowda clarified that hotels must follow election guidelines and denied any inducement or political affiliation claims. The court cautioned hotels against seeking credit or accepting political contributions, emphasizing adherence to the Model Code of Conduct. 4. In other headlines, Bengaluru's Ebenezer International School and BVM Global School received hoax bomb threat emails on May 9th. Bomb squads confirmed the emails were hoaxes. The schools filed police complaints, and separate cases were registered. No children were present during the incidents. Police are investigating similar threat emails sent to 26 schools last year from overseas servers. 5. In some education news, The Divecha Centre for Climate Change, or DCCC, at IISc Bangalore will hold a training program on Glacier Studies and Remote Sensing from June 6th to June 16th. The program aims to enhance India's expertise in glaciology and will cover topics such as remote sensing applications, climate change, and glacier mass balance estimation. DCCC emphasizes the importance of using remote sensing to assess water security in the Himalayan region and Indo-Gangetic plains. 6. On to other news, the Karnataka High Court ruled that a father who did not create a congenial atmosphere for his 9-year-old daughter cannot claim custody rights. The court dismissed the father's petition seeking equal custody, stating that in parental conflicts, the child suffers. The judgment emphasized the child's best interests and the importance of a strong bond with the mother. 7. Meanwhile, according to recent data from the Bengaluru Traffic Police, the city has seen an average of almost two road fatalities per day in the last six months. Factors such as reckless driving, violations of traffic regulations, and poor pedestrian infrastructure have contributed to the high number of deaths. The outer areas of the city have been hit hardest, due to increasing traffic density and underdeveloped infrastructure. 8. On a different note, over 70% of vaccinated stray dogs in Bengaluru have gained immunity to rabies, thanks to the Animal Birth Control and Anti-Rabies Vaccination program by BBMP. Oral vaccines can speed up achieving herd immunity. Previous study revealed only 50% had immunity, highlighting progress. Animal welfare activists urge mandatory vaccination for pet dogs. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Butterfly Talent Academy in Banaswadi is hosting a Kids Pottery Experience on May 12th at 12:30 PM.  2. The annual Japan Habba Tech Fair, a collaborative technical conference between India and Japan, will be held on May 13th at IISc Bangalore. It aims to gather professionals from academia and industry who are enthusiastic about Indo-Japan collaboration. Attend the Japan Habba cultural event on May 14th at the National Science Seminar Complex in Malleshwaram. 3. But wait, there's more. Join the Lippan Art Workshop at Dialogues Cafe in Koramangala on May 14th at 3 PM. Let's hear from Ms Rimjhim, the instructor from ArtDelight, telling us more about the event. 4. Be a part of Open Mic Bengaluru, a week-long event from May 14th to May 21st at My School Of Rock. Here's Mr Punith, the manager at My School of Rock, telling us more about the event. 5. Attend the Naveen Richard Live Tour for his stand-up comedy show at Mother Tekla Auditorium, Ashok Nagar on May 20th at 8 PM.  National News1. Moving on to the national news with a Covid-19 update. On May 10th, India reported 2,109 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 4.49 crore. The death toll reached 5,31,722, including eight fatalities. Active cases decreased to 21,406, accounting for 0.05% of total infections. The recovery rate stood at 98.77%, with 4,44,21,781 people having recovered. Over 220.66 crore vaccine doses have been administered nationwide. 2. In other news from the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, water, innovation, and people-to-people ties. Cohen's visit was shortened due to Israel's military operation in the Gaza Strip. Modi expressed his satisfaction with the meeting in a tweet. 3. Shifting our focus, The Geological Survey of India, or GSI, has dismissed media reports claiming the discovery of large lithium reserves in Rajasthan as "baseless" and misleading. The GSI clarified that no such information was provided by either the regional or central headquarters. The exploration work for tungsten, lithium, and associated rare metals mineralization is still ongoing, and resource estimates will be determined after the completion of drilling and report finalization. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, the US is urging the World Health Organization, or WHO, to invite Taiwan as an observer to its annual meeting. China has been blocking Taiwan's participation since 2017, but the US believes including Taiwan would promote inclusivity in international health cooperation. Taiwan's foreign ministry expressed gratitude for the US's support, emphasizing the importance of global health cooperation. 2. In some shocking news, former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's arrest has been upheld by the Islamabad High Court, leading to violent protests across the country. Internet services and social media platforms have been suspended in various regions. The arrest followed Khan's accusations against a senior officer of the ISI spy agency. The Indian High Commission has advised Indian athletes participating in the Bridge Championship in Lahore to leave the country immediately. 3. In a recent development, the German government has presented a proposal for a "self-determination law" that would make it easier for transgender individuals to change their name and legal gender without extensive formalities. The law aims to protect against discrimination and provide dignity to transgender, intersex, and non-binary people. The proposal also includes provisions for minors and follows similar efforts in Spain and Scotland to simplify gender changes on official documents. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. Go First, owned by the Wadia group, has been granted bankruptcy protection by the National Company Law Tribunal, or NCLT, after filing for insolvency resolution proceedings. The NCLT appointed an interim resolution professional and ordered the suspended board of directors to support them. The airline has suspended ticket sales until May 15th and faces liabilities of ₹11,463 crore. 2. In some technology news, Cisco Systems plans to open a manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, India, to produce switches and routers. The company is collaborating with Indian telecom carriers, including Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, to develop automated 5G networks for efficient service delivery. Cisco sees opportunities for private 5G networks in sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and utilities. The move aligns with India's initiative to boost domestic industry and attract foreign direct investment. 3. In other news, the Indian government will investigate allegations that WhatsApp accessed users' microphones while their phones were not in use, according to Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar. WhatsApp attributed the issue to an Android bug and said it has asked Google to investigate. Meanwhile, WhatsApp users in India have reported a surge in incoming international spam calls. 4. In the share market, on May 10th, amidst high volatility, benchmark indices showed slight gains, with the Nifty hovering around 18,300. The Sensex rose by 65.00 points or 0.11 percent to reach 61,826, while the Nifty increased by 17.50 points or 0.1 percent, reaching 18,283.45. Out of the shares traded, 1,681 advanced, 1,772 declined, and 147 remained unchanged. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Filmmaker SS Rajamouli has expressed his ambition to adapt the Indian epic Mahabharat into a film, stating that he would make it into 10 parts to fully do justice to the story. While he is yet to begin casting or production, he envisions a unique interpretation of the characters and their inter-relationships. 2. Meanwhile, the controversial film The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen, has grossed over ₹50 crores at the Indian box office in just five days. Despite protests and bans, the movie's earnings have soared to ₹56.86 crore. The film portrays the forced conversion and recruitment of Kerala women by the Islamic State. The Kerala High Court has dismissed the ban, and an appeal will be heard by the Supreme Court next week. 3. In an update for music, BTS member Jimin will collaborate with Kodak Black, NLE Choppa, JVKE, and Muni Long for the song "Angel Pt.1" in the upcoming movie Fast X. Fans are excited about this "dream team" of artists. The song will be released on May 18th. Jimin recently made history with his solo track "Like Crazy" reaching No. 1 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart. Sports News1. In sports news, Delhi, with a strong recent record of four wins in five matches, will face Chennai on May 10th. Mumbai have climbed to the top three with 12 points after defeating Bangalore. The playoff race remains intense, with Gujarat leading the table and the mid-table congested with teams on 10 points. 2. In some football news, Real Madrid and Manchester City were satisfied with a 1-1 draw in the evenly contested first leg of the Champions League semifinal. Vinicius Junior and Kevin de Bruyne scored, and the match remains wide open for the return leg. Both teams felt it was a good result and expect an even battle in Manchester. 3. Wrapping up sports news, tennis player Jessica Pegula, ranked third in the world, expressed disappointment with Madrid Open organizers for not allowing her and the women's doubles finalists to give speeches at the trophy ceremony. The men's doubles finalists had been given the opportunity to speak the previous day. Pegula called the decision unacceptable and questioned the organizers' rationale. Coco Gauff and Victoria Azarenka also expressed their dissatisfaction with the situation. Weather1. Last, but not least, Cyclone Mocha, currently a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm on May 10th and further strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by May 11th. It will make landfall over southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar coasts by May 14th, accompanied by heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions. Fishermen have been advised to stay away from the waters, and off-shore activities have been suspended. 2. And finally, on the evening of May 10th, anticipate mostly cloudy skies with temperatures reaching a high of 29°C and a low of 25°C. May 11th is expected to be partly cloudy, with a high of 31°C and a low of 21°C. Thunderstorms may potentially develop during the afternoon hours.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

10th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Polling for the Karnataka Assembly elections will take place on May 10th from 7 AM to 6 PM. Voters can check their names on the voter list published on www.ceokarnataka.kar.nic.in or through the ‘Chunavana’ mobile app. Lost voter IDs can be replaced with documents like a passport or Aadhaar card. Special facilities for senior citizens and the disabled will be available. May 10th has been declared a paid holiday. 2. Moving on, Bengaluru metro timings will be extended on May 10th due to the Karnataka Assembly elections. The last train will leave at 12:35 AM from Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, Majestic station, with other stations departing at 12:05 AM. KSRTC and BMTC have assigned thousands of buses for election duties, causing significant disruptions to public transportation on May 9th and 10th. 3. Up next, officials from the Central Crime Branch conducted a surprise search at the Central Prison of Parappana Agrahara ahead of the elections. The team found mobile phones, SIM cards, knives, a scissor, and traces of drug consumption and tobacco products. Rowdy elements were warned against influencing voters on behalf of candidates or political parties. The seized items were handed over to the prison's chief superintendent along with a report for further action. 4. In other headlines, ahead of state assembly elections, over 200 bars in Bengaluru were closed for violating norms such as keeping the bar open beyond permitted hours and storing large quantities of liquor without proper documentation. Officials seized over 22.27 lakh liters of liquor, valued at Rs 83.66 crore, meant for distribution to voters and party workers. 5. Now, onto another topic, Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics manufacturer and a key Apple supplier, has purchased a large tract of land near Bengaluru as part of its diversification away from China. The 1.2 million-square-metre acquisition was announced in a statement to the London Stock Exchange and was purchased by Foxconn's subsidiary, Foxconn Hon Hai Technology India Mega Development. Foxconn has been manufacturing iPhones in India since 2019. 6. Meanwhile, Birla Estates, the real estate arm of Aditya Birla Group, has purchased a 28.6-acre land in Bengaluru for an undisclosed sum. The project is estimated to generate a revenue potential of INR 3,000 crore and will include residential housing and convenience retail options. Birla Estates has also acquired land parcels in Pune and South Mumbai for development. 7. Also in real estate news, Bengaluru plans to launch a new software, Kaveri 2 portal, which enables citizens to register their property from their homes, eliminating middlemen and enhancing transparency and accountability. The portal has been operational at close to 100 sub-registrar offices across Karnataka, making the registration process seamless, increasing efficiency, and enhancing revenue collection. 8. On a different note, pre-monsoon showers brought Bengaluru to a standstill, with heavy rains affecting South and Central parts of the city. Residents in some areas reported sewage-mixed water flowing out of Hosakerehalli Lake onto the streets. The BBMP helpline received multiple complaints, including about uprooted trees and collapsed walls. Moderate rainfall is expected to continue for the next three days, with the southern parts of the city likely to experience heavier rainfall. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Every weekday night at 9 PM, Just BLR Comedy Club, Brigade Road, hosts its daily open mic where aspiring comedians showcase their talents, and audiences enjoy a night of laughter and entertainment.  2. Prashasti Singh will be performing her solo stand-up comedy, "Door Khadi Sharmaaye" at Bangalore International Centre, Domlur, on May 13th. 3. But wait, there's more. Attend a coaster painting workshop at Art Beat, HSR Layout, taking place every Wednesday. Here's Rajeev, the managing partner, to tell us more about the workshop. 4. SmallWorld, Koramangala hosts an Acroyoga workshop every Saturday, which is open to all levels of practitioners, from complete beginners to experienced individuals.  5. Stretch your musical muscles and enjoy an evening of music with fellow enthusiasts at the Music Jamming session hosted by Expressions on Varthur Main Road, every Sunday at 7 PM. National News1. Moving on to the national news. The Supreme Court has reprimanded politicians for making statements about an ongoing case regarding the withdrawal of 4% reservation for Muslims in Karnataka. The court has adjourned the case to July, asking for discipline to be maintained and for no public statements to be made on sub judice matters. The Karnataka government had scrapped the 4% reservation for Muslims in March 2021, deeming it unconstitutional. 2. Shifting our focus, eleven countries, including India, have agreed to a coordinated effort to protect migratory birds and their habitats in the Central Asian Flyway. The flyway spans 30 countries from the Arctic to the Indian Ocean and is home to more than 400 migratory bird species. The formalisation of the initiative is a significant step towards bird conservation. 3. In other wildlife news, India is set to release five cheetahs from acclimatization camps into Kuno National Park before monsoon season in June. Experts from South Africa and India evaluated the cheetahs' behavior and characteristics. The project aims to restore the species, which was declared extinct in India in 1952, by providing up to 100,000 km² of habitat in legally protected areas and an additional 600,000 km² of habitable landscape for the species. International News1. Turning our attention to international breaking news, former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been arrested outside the Islamabad High Court where he had gone to seek bail in multiple FIRs against him. PTI vice-president Fawad Chaudhry alleged that the Islamabad High Court had been "occupied by the Rangers" and that Khan had been "abducted" from the court premises while lawyers and people had been "tortured". Khan's detention follows several unsuccessful attempts, including a police raid at his residence. 2. In an update on the Ukraine-Russia war, today, on the day of Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, Russia launched a fifth attack on Ukraine. Ukraine destroyed 23 of the 25 missiles fired. No casualties were reported. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has escalated, with Russia launching its biggest drone swarm yet. Russia's mercenary Wagner forces threatened to withdraw from the battle of Bakhmut as they haven't received promised ammunition from Moscow. Ukraine is expected to launch a counteroffensive. 3. In a recent development, Canada has expelled a Chinese diplomat who allegedly attempted to intimidate a Canadian lawmaker critical of China, triggering a new diplomatic dispute. The move has strained already tense relations between the two countries. China has been accused of interfering in Canadian affairs. The latest allegations involved Chinese intelligence planning to impose sanctions on lawmaker Michael Chong and his relatives for voting to condemn China's actions in Xinjiang. Business News1. Now let’s look at some business stories. India extended Sri Lanka's $1bn credit line by one year to support essential imports, part of $4bn emergency aid extended last year. Remaining $350m is less essential due to increased foreign exchange availability. Sri Lanka finalised a $3bn bailout package from the IMF and is in debt restructuring talks with China, India, and Japan. 2. Now, onto another topic, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone announced it would pay off $130m of debt early after almost $413m worth of debt has been offered for early payment. The move aims to boost investor confidence, as Adani Group’s seven-listed stocks have lost around $114bn in value since Hindenburg Research accused the group of stock manipulation and improper use of offshore tax havens. 3. In some automobile news, sales of cars to fleet operators, including app-based cab aggregators, in India are set to outpace overall industry growth. Fleet sales nearly doubled last fiscal year with estimates of 1,37,000 vehicles sold, expected to grow over 40% this year. Maruti Suzuki saw commercial sales boosted by demand from tourism. Governments replacing half a million petrol and diesel cars with EVs will further drive fleet sales. 4. In the share market today, benchmark indices closed flat after paring early gains. The NSE Nifty 50 settled at 18,265.95 and the BSE Sensex closed at 61,761.33. The Bank Nifty fell 85.85 points or 0.2% to 43,198.15, Nifty PSU Bank tanked 113.3 points or 2.75% to 4,001.8 while Nifty IT jumped 204.55 points or 0.73% to 28,125.5. Top gainers on Nifty 50 were Divis Lab, IndusInd Bank, Coal India, TCS, and Axis Bank, while UPL, ITC, SBIN, Bajaj Finance, and JSW Steel were among the losers. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. According to Mumbai Police, a crew member of the movie "The Kerala Story" received a threatening message from an unknown number. The West Bengal government has banned the film due to its controversial content, which narrates the story of three women trafficked to ISIS camps after being converted to Islam through marriage. The movie has faced opposition from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. 2. Meanwhile, Mumbai Police issued a lookout circular against a medical student from Haryana, studying in the UK, for sending death threats to Bollywood star Salman Khan. The student, yet to be identified, is being sought for extradition to India for sending an email in the name of gangster Goldy Brar, accused of murdering Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. Police have initiated the process by sharing a Mutual Legal Assistance treaty with UK authorities. 3. In news from Hollywood, Disney's live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid" was screened for its first public audience, receiving positive and encouraging reviews. The film stars Halle Bailey as Ariel, alongside Javier Bardem, Awkwafina, Jonah Hauer-King, and Melissa McCarthy. The remake features updated scores from Alan Menken and four new songs, and is set to release on May 26th. Sports News1. In sports news today, Kolkata captain Nitish Rana was fined Rs. 12 lakh after a slow-over rate during their IPL match against Punjab at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Kolkata won the match with Rana scoring 51 runs in 38 balls. Andre Russell and Rinku Singh finished the job, and Kolkata rose to fifth position on the points table. 2. In some ongoing news, the Haryana Amateur Wrestling Association has suspended three district unit secretaries for their alleged involvement in the protest against the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India for alleged sexual harassment and intimidation. Several wrestlers have been demanding the WFI chief's arrest, and Delhi Police has filed two FIRs against him. 3. Wrapping up sports news, according to Spanish outlet El Nacional, Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr and return to Real Madrid. Real Madrid is reportedly willing to offer him a non-playing role as an ambassador. Ronaldo scored 451 goals in 438 appearances during his time at Real Madrid and since moving to Al-Nassr has scored 12 goals in 13 league appearances. Weather1. Last, but not least, The Indian Meteorological Department warns that Cyclone Mocha may become a very severe storm with winds up to 130 kmph by May 12th. The storm is expected to intensify from May 9th and move towards Bangladesh and Myanmar coasts. A well-marked low-pressure area has already formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal. 2. And finally, expect cloudy skies tonight with a high of 28°C, low of 24°C and scattered thunderstorms. Tomorrow, May 10th, will see a high of 31°C, low of 21°C, with a partly cloudy day, followed by a cloudy night. There is a slight chance of rain.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

9th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Karnataka has announced dry days ahead of assembly elections. Alcohol-serving establishments will remain closed from 5 pm on May 8th to midnight on May 10th, and again on May 13th. The ban is enforced under the People's Representation Act to prevent disruption of the elections. Some Bengaluru restaurants have decided to close their business on those days as they cannot serve alcohol. No door delivery of food will be allowed.  2. Moving on, Campaigning for Karnataka's assembly polls ends today. PM Modi addressed 18 rallies and six roadshows, while Congress leaders held 80 public meetings. The JD(S) aims to win 123 seats, positioning itself as a party for Kannadigas. The polls are important for setting the tone for the 2024 general elections. 3. Up next, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi campaigned for the Karnataka assembly elections by riding a BMTC bus in Bengaluru and interacting with commuters this morning. He discussed issues such as price hikes, public transportation, and Congress's guarantee of free bus travel for all women on state-owned KSRTC and BMTC buses. The election is set for May 10th, with results on May 13th. 4. Meanwhile, the AIUTUC has voiced concern about ASHAs not receiving allowances during election duty and submitted a memorandum to the election commission officer. The union approached district commissioners for allowances and approached the Chief Electoral Officer for help. ASHAs were given Rs 700 allowance per day during previous elections. Some district commissioners had denied pay citing lack of funds. 5. In other headlines, KSRTC and BMTC will deploy 45% and 27% of their fleets, respectively, on election duty on May 9th and 10th, leading to delays and interruptions for intra-state and intra-city travel. KSRTC will deploy around 3,700 buses from its 8,100-strong fleet to transport officials for poll duty, while Volvo and premium services will run as usual. 6. Now, onto another topic, the first U-girders for Namma Metro's Blue Line extension to Kempe Gowda International Airport have been installed. The 37km Phase 2B project will connect Central Silk Board Junction and KR Puram. The project is divided into three packages, with NCC Ltd. building all three. The Blue Line is set to become operational by June 2026. 7. In some shocking news, two software engineers in Bengaluru lost Rs 49 lakh to cybercriminals who promised part-time jobs to rate hotels. The criminals claimed to work for companies providing hotel reviews and convinced the engineers to invest money with them. Police are trying to track down the suspects. Officials are warning people to be cautious of job offers that require an investment or entail the transfer of money. 8. On a different note, a Bengaluru man took the National Highways Authority of India to court after being charged an excess of Rs 5 twice through his FASTag account at a toll plaza. The court ordered the agency to refund the excess toll fee and pay compensation of Rs 8,000. Despite the NHAI arguing the fees were as per the rules, the court ruled in favor of the customer. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Lahe Lahe will be hosting Yoga Classes starting May 9th, conducted by Yogini Sripriyaji, Co-founder Aevam Yoga. Let's hear more about the workshop from Sripriya. 2. Attend the Women in Product Conference on May 13th at 10 AM, held at the CMRIT College Amphitheatre, to acquire valuable insights from accomplished women in the industry, connect with professionals who share similar interests, and leave the conference feeling empowered to succeed in the product world. 3. But wait, there's more. Experience an evening of spoken word and poetry at Dialogues Poetry Mic, taking place on May 13th at 6:30 PM in Dialogues Cafe, JP Nagar. Here's Srishtika Prakash, the host, telling us more about the event.  4. Attend Bhangra Night, a Bhangra workshop on May 14th at Dialogues Cafe in JP Nagar, happening every Sunday. 5. Manik Mahna will be performing his stand-up comedy show "Manik's Day Out" on May 14th at Alliance Française de Bangalore. National News1. Moving on to the national news. Curfew was relaxed in Imphal, Manipur's state capital, allowing people to buy essential items as life returns to somewhat normal after ethnic violence. Drones and helicopters monitored the situation while the Army and Assam Rifles held flag marches. Several state governments have arranged special flights to evacuate their residents, mostly students, from Manipur due to the ongoing violence. 2. In some breaking news, another explosion occurred on a heritage street near the Golden Temple early this morning, close to the spot where a blast happened on May 6th. No injuries or damages were reported. Police and forensic teams arrived at the scene and collected samples for investigation. Locals demanded a thorough investigation into the two blasts. 3. Shifting our focus, a double-decker boat overturned and sank near Tuvalthiram beach in Kerala's Malappuram district, killing 22 people, including seven children. The boat's owner has been charged with culpable homicide, and a judicial probe has been ordered. Rescue operations are underway with the help of the National Disaster Response Force and Indian Coast Guard. The cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, the Taliban has agreed to extend China's Belt and Road Initiative, or BRI, to Afghanistan, potentially attracting billions of dollars for infrastructure projects. China and Pakistan have pledged to work together on Afghanistan’s reconstruction, including taking the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan. China, Russia, and Iran have warm ties with the Taliban. 2. In a recent development, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with his Indian counterpart Ajit K Doval in Saudi Arabia, with plans to meet again at the Quad Summit in Australia. They launched the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology dialogue in January. Sullivan also met with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE's National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 3. In some upsetting news, the Canadian province of Alberta has declared a state of emergency as 110 wildfires continue to blaze across the region, forcing 25,000 people to flee their homes and causing one-third of the fires to be listed as out of control. More than 20 communities have been evacuated and over 301,000 acres have burned. The emergency declaration gives the government of Alberta greater powers to respond to extreme situations. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. India and Canada's trade ministers will co-chair the sixth India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment today, where they will review progress on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or CEPA, negotiations and discuss strengthening economic ties. Piyush Goyal will also visit Toronto to meet with key Canadian companies and inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023. 2. Now, onto another topic, The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture held a meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation to discuss airfare hikes, heritage theft, and airport development. The meeting followed complaints about increased airfares from Manipur and budget airline Go First filing for insolvency due to a lack of engine supply. 3. In other news, The Indian Biogas Association, or IBA, has urged the government to increase compressed biogas in the gas mix, reducing India's annual import bill by USD 20-25 billion by 2030. The IBA suggested gradually increasing the share of compressed biogas to 10% by 2025 and 20% by 2030, and extending the CBG-CGD synchronization plan for ten years to provide long-term certainty to CBG ecosystem players. 4. In the share market, India's domestic indices started Monday in positive territory, boosted by favorable global cues. The NSE Nifty 50 climbed 0.62% to 18,181.5 and the Sensex rose 0.87% to 61,585.36. The Bank Nifty surged 1.33% to 43,227.05, while Nifty PSU Bank fell 0.67% to 4,125.85. IndusInd Bank, Hindalco, Bajaj Auto, Power Grid, and Kotak Bank were among the top gainers on Nifty 50, while Coal India, Adani Enterprises, Sun Pharma, Adani Ports, and SBI Life were among the losers. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. The Kerala Story directed by Sudipto Sen saw a boost in collections, earning twice its Day 1 figures on May 7th, despite being cancelled in some states. The film was declared tax-free in Madhya Pradesh. The film tells the story of an innocent Hindu woman forced to convert to Islam and later sent to the ISIS Terrorist organization, based on real-life incidents. 2. Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rajinikanth is making a comeback after half a decade with her film "Lal Salaam" and has introduced her father, Rajinikanth, as Moideen Bhai. He will be playing a cameo in the film. Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth will also star in the film, and AR Rahman will score the music. The shooting is currently underway, and the film is expected to be released this year. 3. In news from Hollywood, actor Richard Dreyfuss criticized the Academy's diversity and inclusion standards for the 2024 Oscars, calling them "thoughtless" and "patronizing". The new standards require two to be fulfilled for a valid submission for Best Picture. Dreyfuss also defended Laurence Olivier's performance in Blackface and criticized limiting casting based on race or religion, as well as efforts to control curriculum and ban certain books in public schools. Sports News1. In sports news today, Punjab hopes for a win against Kolkata tonight with the return of Kagiso Rabada. Harpreet Brar may be used as an Impact Substitute, while the spin department will play a key role in a different venue. The batting looks good with Shikhar Dhawan and Prabhsimran Singh in form. 2. In some Formula 1 news, Max Verstappen won the Miami Grand Prix despite starting ninth, extending his lead in the F1 championship over Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez. Red Bull achieved a one-two finish for the fourth time in five races, while Fernando Alonso finished third. Toto Wolff praised Mercedes' performance, with George Russell fourth and Lewis Hamilton sixth. Red Bull leads the constructors' championship, followed by Aston Martin and Mercedes. 3. Wrapping up sports news, Deepak Bhoria, an Indian boxer, caused the biggest upset at the World Boxing Championships in Tashkent by defeating world champion and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, Saken Bibossinov. Bhoria advances to the pre-quarterfinals of the flyweight category with the victory. Md Hussamuddin also won unanimously to advance to the quarterfinals while Sumit Kundu and Narender Berwal bowed out.Weather1. Last, but not least, a low-pressure area has formed in the Bay of Bengal and is expected to turn into a cyclone by May 10th, moving towards the Myanmar and Bangladesh coasts. The Indian Meteorological Department has a five-step classification for cyclones, with the weakest called a "cyclonic storm" and the strongest a "super cyclonic storm." This will be the first cyclone of the year and will be named Cyclone Mocha. 2. And finally, expect scattered thunderstorms tonight with a high of 26 deg C and a low of 23 deg C. Tomorrow, on May 9th, the day will be partly cloudy with a high of 31 deg C and a low of 21 deg C. There is a possibility of rain in the evening and night.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

8th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group? Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Local News1. Let's begin with updates from the city. The BJP has revised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bengaluru roadshow to minimize inconvenience to citizens. Instead of a day-long event, it will now take place on May 6th and May 7th. This roadshow is part of the PM's three-day campaign, with public rallies scheduled in other locations as well. The BJP is focused on winning in Bengaluru as it plays a crucial role in forming the government. 2. Moving on, Bengaluru is witnessing crackdowns to seize illegal cash, liquor, and items ahead of the Karnataka Assembly Election 2023. 816 raids have been conducted, resulting in the confiscation of 3.77 crore liters of IMFL liquor and 2.85 crore liters of beer. The Excise Department has taken action with 700 cases, 30 seized vehicles, 2,514 registered FIRs, and the confiscation of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, gifts, and 69,847 weapons. 3. Up next, Mahadevapura has the highest property tax contribution of ₹813.43 crore. However, residents suffer from poor infrastructure and unplanned development. The upcoming assembly elections are significant for the constituency due to its tech companies. Key contestants include BJP's Arvind Limbavali's wife Manjula, and Congress' H Nagesh. Civic issues such as traffic congestion, water scarcity, pollution, and encroachments plague the area, fueled by its rapid population growth. 4. In other headlines, the construction of the foot overbridge, or FOB, between the KR Puram railway and metro stations has begun, resolving the deadlock between South Western Railway and Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited. The FOB will link the Purple Line, Blue Line, and renovated KR Puram railway station. The Mahadevapura Task Force advocated connecting the FOB to the existing Purple Line Metro station. 5. Meanwhile, electric scooters have been seized from rental companies' godowns in the city for violating regulations by tampering with speedometers and exceeding prescribed motor power limits. The scooters falsely claimed speeds below 25 km/h to be exempt from regulations. Dealers were found selling non-compliant higher-capacity models without approval, insurance, and proper vehicle identification. 6. Now, onto another topic, an international team of researchers, including from the National Centre for Biological Sciences, or NCBS, in Bengaluru, have identified a new type of molecular motor that could lead to advancements in cellular processes, biology, and medicine. Published in Nature Physics, the study reveals how the protein EEA1 can regain its rigid shape through GTP hydrolysis, creating a distinct two-part molecular motor and providing insights into disease-related cellular disruptions. 7. In some education news, the Samagra Shikshana education department has mandated that children seeking LKG admission for the academic year 2023-24 must be four years old by June 1, aligning with the National Education Policy and Right to Education rules. The new age criteria, originally planned for 2023, will now take effect in 2025-26. However, several private schools and standalone neighbourhood preschools are not complying with the rule. 8. On a different note, The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board chairman, N Jayaram, will be available for a phone-in programme on May 6 from 9 to 10:30 am to address public grievances regarding water billing, overflowing manholes, meter reading issues, and inadequate water supply and sanitation. Consumers can call 080-22945119 and provide their RR Number details before raising a complaint, as per the release from BWSSB. Local EventsSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week.1. Experience an evening of laughter with Swati Sachdeva's stand-up show, "So Rude of Me" at the Ramana Maharshi Centre for Learning on May 6th at 6 PM. 2. Catch comedian Gaurav Gupta live in Bangalore at Nexus Shantiniketan Mall Whitefield on May 13th, 2023 at 7 PM. 3. But wait, there's more. Experience a diverse range of performances and talents at Jagriti Open Mic Saturdays, a series of events happening every Saturday from May 6th to August 26th at Jagriti Theatre in Whitefield.  4. The "Biggestest Kids Carnival" will take place at Nexus Shantiniketan Mall, in association with KidsWell and Themed by Sneha Chopra, on May 6th and 7th. Let's hear more about the carnival from Dr Deepika Ponnappa, the founder of KidsWell. 5. Participate in a glass painting and acrylic painting workshop, at Dialogues in Kormangala on May 6th, 2023, starting at 11 AM. Here is Ms Sudatta Banerjee, the founder of Crimson Petal Art School, giving us more details about the workshop. National News1. Moving on to the national news. India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, called on the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, or SCO, to prioritize the fight against terrorism during a conclave. He stressed the importance of addressing all forms of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, to protect the security interests of the organization. Jaishankar made the statement in the presence of counterparts from Pakistan, China, and Russia. 2. In some breaking news, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has cancelled his election programmes in Karnataka due to clashes in Manipur. He is closely monitoring the situation and holding meetings with authorities. Security forces, including CAPFs and the Army, are being deployed to restore normalcy. Meghalaya is evacuating its citizens, including students, using special flights. 3. Shifting our focus, in the midst of a decade-long water crisis, residents of Gangodbari village in Nashik's Peth Taluka face perilous conditions as they descend a 70-foot well daily to collect water. With rising temperatures exacerbating the situation, women from Gangodbari bravely climb down the well using ropes to obtain water for their daily needs. It is not just these villages but there are several villages in the district that have been going through a severe water crisis, forcing villagers to risk their lives in danger. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, eight people were killed and 10 injured in a drive-by shooting near Belgrade, the second mass killing in Serbia in two days. The attacker used an automatic weapon and fled the scene. The country, unaccustomed to such incidents, is grappling with the tragedy and discussing gun control measures. The shooting has sparked debates on the nation's state and calls for changes in the school system. 2. In some shocking news, a video has emerged showing Ukrainian MP Oleksandr Marikovskyi punching an unidentified Russian representative who took down the Ukrainian flag during a conference in Ankara. The incident occurred during the 61st General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have been escalating. 3. In a recent development, President Biden met with AI CEOs to address privacy, bias, and misinformation risks. A $140 million investment in AI research institutes was announced, highlighting the need for regulations. Challenges remain in combating harmful AI despite tech giants' promises to tackle issues like privacy violations and misinformation campaigns. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. Reserve Bank Deputy Governor T Rabi Sankar called for diversifying the international currency system by adopting liquid currencies to de-risk global finance. He emphasized the need for wider adoption of central bank digital currencies, or CBDCs, while limiting private virtual currencies. The Indian central bank has launched a global technology competition to improve cross-border payments. 2. Now, onto another topic, sales of summer products such as air-conditioners, refrigerators, beverages, and ice cream have declined by 26% in North India due to unseasonal rains and low temperatures. Marketers are concerned about meeting sales targets, although a revival in sales is anticipated later this month. The impact has been seen in sectors like dairy, beverages, and appliances. 3. In some positive news, Indian companies have invested over $40 billion in the US, creating more than 425,000 direct jobs, according to a report by the Confederation of Indian Industries, or CII. The report highlights that 85% of surveyed companies plan to hire more local employees and 83% have future US investment plans. The presence of Indian foreign direct investment spans across all 50 American states, with Texas receiving the highest investment. 4. In the share market today, global stock markets showed mixed performance as investors awaited US jobs data and expressed concerns over the impact of interest rate hikes on banks. London, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, and Wall Street futures rose, while Shanghai declined. Oil prices increased. Investors hoped weak economic data would dissuade the Federal Reserve from implementing further rate hikes. The Sensex in India dropped by 0.8%, and markets in New Zealand and Southeast Asia also declined. Rate hikes have raised fears of financial strain on banks and possible deposit withdrawals. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. A jury has determined that Ed Sheeran did not plagiarize Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On" when he wrote his hit song "Thinking Out Loud." After a two-week trial, Sheeran expressed relief and hugged his lawyer. The lawsuit claimed similarities between the songs, but Sheeran argued that the chord progression was a common element available to all songwriters. 2. In news from Bollywood, the hit film "MS Dhoni: The Untold Story," directed by Neeraj Pandey and starring the late Sushant Singh Rajput as cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, is set to be re-released in Indian theaters on May 12th. The film, originally released in 2016, aims to give fans another chance to relive Dhoni's inspiring journey on the big screen. 3. Meanwhile, a Muslim group in Kerala is offering 10 million rupees as reward for evidence disproving claims in the controversial film "The Kerala Story" that thousands of Hindu and Christian women joined ISIS. Critics accuse the film of promoting far-right Hindu narratives without factual basis. The director defends the claims, citing evidence. The film's release has sparked controversy and accusations of spreading hate propaganda. Sports News1. In sports news today, Gujarat tops the table in the IPL with 12 points, followed by Lucknow with 11 and Chennai with 10. Bangalore's Faf du Plessis leads the Orange Cap race with 466 runs, while Gujarat's Mohammed Shami tops the Purple Cap race with 17 wickets. Teams ranked from fourth to seventh have 10 points each. 2. In some ongoing news, in solidarity with the protesting wrestlers, coach Mahavir Singh Phogat threatened to return his medals if justice is not served. The wrestlers have also offered to return their medals and government honours to protest alleged police mistreatment. The Sports Ministry instructed the IOA to form an ad-hoc committee to oversee the WFI and conduct elections within 45 days. 3. Wrapping up sports news, Lionel Messi's PSG exit signals a strategy shift, with the club focusing on developing local talent after failing to win the Champions League. The rise of Kylian Mbappe raises doubts about Neymar's future. PSG aims to build a cohesive team and emulate Manchester City's success under Pep Guardiola in pursuit of European glory.Weather1. Last, but not least, the India Meteorological Department has forecasted continued rainfall and thunderstorms across most of India until the end of the week. A cyclonic storm, Cyclone Mocha, is likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal, prompting warnings for fishermen to avoid the area. Heavy rain, hailstorms, and cyclone-related precautions are in effect for various regions. Coastal districts and emergency response teams are on high alert. 2. And finally, tonight, the weather will be predominantly cloudy with a high temperature of 27°C and a low of 24°C. There is a chance of rain during the night. Tomorrow, Saturday, May 6th, the forecast indicates a partly cloudy sky with scattered thunderstorms. The temperature will reach a high of 28°C and drop to a low of 21°C. On Sunday, May 7th, expect a partly cloudy day with a high temperature of 28°C and a low of 21°C. Thunderstorms are anticipated around the evening, and possibly at night.   That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favorite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Sitara D.

5th May, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

"The Bengaluru Commute Podcast" is a podcast that gives you daily news and updates while you navigate one of India's busiest cities. With a population of over 12 million and growing, Bengaluru is known for its congested roads and challenging commutes. On average, residents spend over 60 minutes daily travelling to and from work.  The Bengaluru Commute Podcast aims to keep you informed and empower listeners with local, national, and international news to make the most of their daily journeys. So, whether you're stuck in traffic, crammed on a crowded train, or just looking for ways to make your commute more enjoyable. Tune in to "The Bengaluru Commute Podcast" daily and discover how to turn your daily commute into a more enjoyable, productive, and fulfilling one. Updated Daily ( Monday to Friday)Produced by Spooler

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The Bengaluru Commute Podcast

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