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Verse of Valour, Voice of Change: Haryana Home Secretary Sumita Misra

May 30, 2025, 6:16 pm

Haryana’s Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, Dr Sumita Misra unveils her visionary blueprint for transforming governance and bolstering law and order. Renowned for her innovative leadership, she has spearheaded groundbreaking technological advancements, including AI-powered Dial 112 and widespread CCTV surveillance, redefining public safety and modernization. Tackling entrenched social issues like skewed sex ratios and child marriages, she champions holistic empowerment through education, stringent legal enforcement, and gender sensitization initiatives. Her trailblazing tenure in agriculture introduced bold reforms to curb stubble burning and advance sustainable farming practices. In an exclusive conversation with The Daily Guardian, the senior IAS officer, poet, and devoted mother and the frontrunner for the post of Haryana Chief Secretary, spoke over a length of issues including multifaceted strategies to combat drugs, cybercrime, and crimes against women. The excerpts

“As the Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, of Haryana, how do you perceive this significant responsibility, and what are your key priorities to enhance law and order across the state?”

This role sits at the very heart of citizen-centric governance; without robust law and order, no other facet of development—social, economic, or institutional—can truly thrive. My key priorities are multi-faceted. Ensuring robust law and order is central to citizen-focused governance, and I am fully committed to this responsibility. Haryana’s police force is being modernized with AI-powered Dial 112 systems, enhanced jail security with 1,105 CCTV cameras, jammers, body cameras, and sniffer dogs. Civil Defence has been strengthened for quick emergency response, including livestock evacuation in disaster drills. Advanced forensics, cybercrime units, and predictive analytics are being introduced alongside better police training and equipment. Community policing is a priority to build trust and transparency. Specialized units target cybercrime, drug trafficking, and organized crime with zero tolerance, especially against drugs. Crimes against women and children receive top focus, with Fast Track Special Courts in Faridabad, Gurugram, and Panchkula under the POCSO Act. Haryana leads in implementing new victim-centric laws (BNS, BNSS, BSA) with statewide training. Plans for a National Forensic Sciences University campus and integrated digital systems further enhance safety, ensuring women feel protected and justice is swift.

“Given Haryana’s comprehensive strategy to combat the drug menace, particularly in border areas adjoining Punjab, what concrete steps are being taken to make these districts drug-free?”

To combat the drug menace, especially in border districts, the Haryana government under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has launched a multi-pronged strategy combining enforcement, rehabilitation, and public engagement. A key initiative was the Drug-Free Haryana Cyclothon 2.0, flagged off in Sirsa and covering all 90 constituencies between April 5–27, 2025. The event saw participation from over 4.5 lakh cyclists and drew 7.2 lakh citizens in support of the anti-drug campaign. Haryana has registered 143 NDPS cases (Jan–Apr 2025), arresting 332 accused, including 145 inter-state smugglers, and seizing large quantities of narcotics. 143 cases of illegal drug-linked assets have been referred to the Enforcement Directorate, and eight Fast Track NDPS Courts have been set up in districts like Ambala, Sirsa, and Hisar. Rehabilitation efforts include 45 planned de-addiction centres, a 15-acre holistic rehab campus in Sirsa, and expanded training for medical officers. The MANAS helpline (1933) is now active statewide. Digital monitoring through systems like NCORD and NIDAAN, and community engagement via Prahari Clubs and viral campaigns like #NashaMuktJeevan and “Namak Lota Abhiyan”, are reinforcing awareness and grassroots participation. The government’s comprehensive approach combines inter-state coordination, law enforcement, health services, and public mobilisation, positioning Haryana as a model in the national fight against drugs.

Haryana has historically faced criticism over issues like skewed sex ratio, child marriages, and extra-judicial diktats against inter-caste and inter-faith marriages. How do you view these challenges, and what steps are being taken to promote genuine empowerment of women in the state?”

Haryana’s past struggles with issues like the skewed sex ratio, child marriages, and social diktats are undeniable, and they represent deeply entrenched societal challenges. I view these are not merely law and order concerns—they are deep-rooted societal challenges that obstruct citizen-centric development and genuine human progress. I view them as critical barriers to women’s empowerment, which demand a holistic, systemic response grounded in equity with efficiency. Our approach must be multi-pronged, addressing both the symptoms and the root causes.

Regarding the sex ratio, progress is being made, due to concerted efforts like the ‘BetiBachao, BetiPadhao’ campaign. Our focus is on stringent enforcement against illegal practices coupled with sustained awareness campaigns celebrating the girl child.

To combat child marriages and social diktats, we are strengthening legal frameworks and ensuring their rigorous implementation. However, true change comes through education and economic empowerment. We are investing in girls’ education, providing skill development opportunities for young women, and encouraging their participation in the workforce. When women are economically independent and educated, they gain agency and can make their own choices.

Furthermore, we are actively promoting gender sensitization at all levels – from schools to community leaders and even within the police force. Challenging regressive norms requires open dialogue and demonstrating positive role models. Our aim is to foster an environment where women feel safe, valued, and empowered to make their own life choices, ensuring they have access to justice and support systems when needed.

“During your tenure in the Agriculture Department, you introduced pioneering initiatives such as Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), ‘MeraPani Meri Virasat’, and cash incentives to curb stubble burning. What inspired these reforms, and how do you see their long-term impact on sustainable agriculture in Haryana?”

During my tenure in the Agriculture Department, our focus was on sustainable, citizen-centric reforms to safeguard Haryana’s agrarian economy. Faced with depleting groundwater, stubble burning, and environmental challenges, we launched transformative initiatives like ‘Mera Pani Meri Virasat’, Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), and cash incentives to curb stubble burning. The ‘Mera Pani Meri Virasat’ scheme encouraged farmers to shift from water-intensive paddy to less water-consuming crops. Haryana became the first state to incentivize DSR, offering Rs 4,000 per acre, which helped save up to 25% water. Stubble burning, a major pollution source, was tackled with cash incentives for sustainable management. The Supreme Court lauded Haryana’s model, which reduced fire incidents by over 80%, from 6,829 in 2021 to 1,315 in 2024. The Union Agriculture Ministry also recognized our efforts. In horticulture, we promoted modern techniques like vertical farming, polyhouses, and net houses. Landmark schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Bagwani Bima Yojana and Haryana Beekeeping Policy (2021-22) strengthened farmer incomes and sector resilience. These reforms reflect a shift toward resource efficiency, ecological balance, and farmer prosperity. By conserving water, improving air quality, and supporting innovation, we laid the foundation for a more resilient and future-ready agriculture sector.

“Haryana’s crèche policy—the first of its kind in India—was implemented under your leadership. What were the major challenges during its rollout, and how do you envision the future of such women-centric initiatives in the state?”

Haryana’s crèche policy, the first of its kind in India, aimed to help women balance professional and caregiving responsibilities—critical for inclusive growth. Key challenges included logistics, infrastructure, training caregivers, and changing mindsets to build trust among parents. Ensuring financial sustainability and scaling the initiative for wide coverage also required strategic planning. Despite these hurdles, the policy’s success reflects Haryana’s commitment to gender-responsive governance. The vision ahead includes expanding such women-centric initiatives, promoting flexible work options, enhancing skill development, and ensuring safety and dignity for women—empowering them to thrive without compromising family responsibilities.

“You are not only an accomplished IAS officer but also a poet and a mother. How do you manage to balance your creative passions with the demanding nature of high-level administrative responsibilities?”

It’s a question I get asked often, and honestly, it’s about finding those pockets of time and fiercely protecting them. My administrative responsibilities are, of course, paramount and demand my full attention and energy during the working hours. But I’ve found that creativity isn’t something you can just switch on and off; it’s a part of who I am. For me, poetry is a form of introspection, a way to process the world around me, and often, an escape. I write—both in English and Hindi. I’ve published five books of poetry, and writing has been a tremendous source of renewal, recharging, and emotional grounding amid the demands of work. I’ve learned to optimize my mornings, sometimes even getting up before dawn, or finding moments in the late evening, as I’ve penned in ‘Womanhood,’ where I find ‘an oasis of beauty in my frenetic day.’ Being a mother also teaches you incredible time management and prioritization. It’s about being present in each role when you’re in it, and understanding that each facet of your life enriches the others. My poetry gives me a certain equanimity that helps me navigate the pressures of administration, and conversely, my experiences in governance often provide rich material for my writing.” Achieving balance is something you have to consciously work towards. A work-life balance doesn’t just happen on its own; in fact, some days feel like even 24 hours aren’t enough.

“You’ve successfully led over 60 postings since 1991 and contributed to landmark initiatives. Among all these achievements, which one stands out as most meaningful to you–and why?”

That’s a very difficult question, as each posting, each initiative, has offered unique challenges and immense learning. However, if I had to choose two that resonate deeply, it would be my work in renewable energy, particularly during my tenure as Director of Renewable Energy in Haryana. We received three National Awards from the President of India for our work in 2007, and then three consecutive National Awards for Energy Conservation. This stands out because it felt like we were truly building something for the future – something sustainable and impactful on a grand scale, addressing both environmental concerns and energy security. The tangible results, the recognition from the President, and the sense of contributing to a greener future for Haryana were incredibly rewarding. It wasn’t just about policy; it was about bringing about a fundamental shift in how we power our lives, and seeing that vision come to fruition was immensely gratifying. We were awarded with ‘State Level Flagship Award” on “Atal Bihari Vajpayee SushasanDiwas” by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Haryana for excellent performance in implementing the flagship Scheme “Meri FasalMeraByora” implemented by Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Department. We were awarded with ‘Agriculture Leadership Award-2021’ conferred to Horticulture in the year 2021-22 presented by Narender Singh Tomar. Union Agriculture Minister, Golorganised by India Today Media Group. Another ‘Best Horticulture State Award’ was awarded to Horticulture Department on dated November 12, 2021 presented by Union Minister of State for Food Processing Prahlad Singh Patel,

“With academic credentials from Harvard, Cambridge, and IIMs, along with a PhD in Economics, how have your educational experiences shaped your approach to policy making and governance in Haryana?”

“My diverse educational background has been foundational to my approach in public service. My PhD in Economics from Kurukshetra University provided me with a rigorous analytical framework – the ability to dissect complex problems, understand causal relationships, and evaluate the economic implications of policy decisions. This is crucial for developing sound, evidence-based policies, whether it’s in agriculture, transport, or social welfare.

Then, the exposure to institutions like Harvard’s Kennedy School, Cambridge, and IIM Ahmedabad was impactful. These programs weren’t just about theories; they were about global best practices in public policy, leadership, and management. They taught me about effective governance models, stakeholder engagement, and the critical importance of implementation. For instance, my role as Senior Advisor in the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, where I advised on subjects like ‘Circular Economy’ and ‘Blue Economy,’ directly leveraged my economics expertise and global policy understanding.

Collectively, these experiences have instilled in me a pragmatic, data-driven, yet human-centered approach to policymaking. They’ve taught me to look beyond immediate solutions, consider long-term impacts, and always strive for innovative yet sustainable solutions that truly benefit the citizens of Haryana.”

What advice would you give young women who aspire to take on leadership roles in public service today?”

My advice to young women aspiring to leadership roles in public service is threefold, build unshakeable self-confidence. Know your worth, trust your voice—even in male-dominated spaces. Leadership demands inner conviction and the courage to make tough decisions with a calculated, strategic mindset, embrace lifelong learning. Go beyond exams—stay informed, refine your skills in communication and planning, and focus on citizen-centric governance. For IAS aspirants, disciplined study is essential, but impactful leadership requires pragmatic thinking and a deep understanding of people’s needs. Build a strong support system. Seek mentors, collaborate with peers, and empower your team to innovate and lead from the grassroots.

You are widely seen as a leading contender for the post of Chief Secretary after the retirement of Anurag Rastogi next month. How do you feel about the possibility of Haryana appointing another woman to its top bureaucratic post next month?”

Haryana has a distinguished record of appointing women to the Chief Secretary position, the highest bureaucratic role in the state administration. However, it will be completely upto the wisdom of the Haryana Government. As rightly said in the Government we are bound to follow orders of the competent authority.

Shalini Passi Tears Up, Walks Out of Interview: ‘Bollywood Wives Bully Me’

October 30, 2024, 1:21 pm

Shalini Passi walked out of an interview with the cast of ‘Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives’ twice while speaking with Galatta India, returning teary-eyed each time.

Viewers speculated her emotions stemmed from comments made by Kalyani Saha. During the interview, Shalini expressed, “I need a break,” before exiting when the host began discussing her.

Shalini Passi Walks Out of the Interview.?
byu/Chai_Lijiye inBollyBlindsNGossip

As she left, she told the group, “You guys can carry on.” Maheep jokingly asked, “Should we be rolling on Season 4?” to which Bhavana chimed in, “I think it was what you [Kalyani Saha] said about wanting attention,” prompting laughter from the others.

Shalini returned but soon walked out again without providing an explanation. The remaining cast continued their conversation, and after a brief period, Shalini came back looking emotional. The viral video of the interview has drawn various reactions from netizens.

One social media user labeled the ‘Fabulous Lives’ cast as bullies, commenting, “I think everyone, including the host, handled it poorly. Shalini was being bullied throughout – she isn’t stupid. Even when they are complimenting her, it’s a backhanded compliment. After she leaves, they all laugh like donkeys to get over the embarrassment. The only sensible one seems to be Bhavana, who can read a room, and the worst (and I hate to say this because I love Ranbir) is Riddhima. ‘I’m very genuine; you get what you see.’ My a**. Never heard anything more fake from someone.”

Another commenter stated, “It was completely Kalyani’s doing. While Kalyani was speaking, Shalini got up to adjust her fit, which is completely okay; after all, she can’t get up and do it while she’s talking. But Kalyani made it seem like Shalini had to get up to bring attention to herself while I’m talking.” This comment suggested that Shalini’s emotional response was provoked by Kalyani’s remarks.

A third user mentioned, “Kalyani was the main issue…but even Riddhima was so rude to her when Shalini tried to tell Kalyani something. The way she asked Shalini to keep quiet was incredibly rude.”

Notably, Shalini Passi is not a Bollywood wife; she is an art collector and the founder of MASH. She is also deeply involved in philanthropy, having served on the Advisory Board of Khoj, a contemporary arts NGO based in Delhi, since 2012, and established the Shalini Passi Art Foundation to support emerging Indian artists.

‘Draw Indian Flag In CSS’: Techie Walks Out Of Job Interview After Bizarre Request

October 14, 2024, 10:49 am

A Bengaluru-based tech professional with 10 years of experience in frontend development was left frustrated after an unusual job interview. The woman, well-versed in frontend technologies like Angular, JavaScript, and CSS, recounted her bizarre experience on Reddit, where she was asked to draw the Indian flag using CSS. What started as a standard interview soon turned into an unexpected test of her design skills.

The woman explained that, given her decade of experience, she expected to be asked about real-world coding challenges or complex scenarios. Instead, the interviewer chose to focus on theoretical CSS questions, eventually leading to the request to design the Indian flag. To her surprise, the interviewer later asked her to add intricate details, such as drawing the Ashoka Chakra and its spikes, which she found completely unreasonable. Frustrated, she ultimately quit the interview, questioning the approach of the interviewer.

Absurd Question or Clever Tactic?

The woman’s post prompted a variety of reactions from fellow Reddit users. Many sympathized with her, agreeing that the interviewer’s line of questioning was irrelevant for someone with her experience level. One user suggested that the interviewer might not have understood the nuances of frontend development and was simply testing her patience. Another user speculated that the interviewer could have been using this unconventional test to assess her technical abilities in CSS, albeit in a misguided way.

Some commenters believed the question was more appropriate for freshers, as it would test basic CSS knowledge like positioning and pseudo-elements. However, most agreed that for an experienced professional, such tasks were not only unexpected but also a poor use of interview time.

A Call for Better Interview Practices

The Reddit thread also raised concerns about the competency of interviewers themselves. Many users pointed out that interviewers should have a solid understanding of the roles they are hiring for and should focus on asking meaningful, skill-based questions that reflect the candidate’s experience. Instead, tasks like drawing an Indian flag using code seemed more like a test of patience than of technical prowess. The debate highlighted the growing demand for interview processes to be more structured and relevant to the applicant’s experience.

Shloka Mehta Shares Inspiring Journey Of ConnectFor In An Interview Inside Antilia

September 27, 2024, 3:42 pm

In a rare interview released earlier this week, Shloka Mehta opened up about her social welfare initiative, ConnectFor. Appearing on The Krish Kothari Show alongside co-founder Maniti Shah, Mehta discussed the purpose, impact, and success of their non-governmental organization (NGO).

A Peek Inside Antilia

The interview provided an exclusive look into Antilia, the Ambani family’s opulent Mumbai residence. Shloka Mehta, 34, is married to Akash Ambani, the eldest son of Mukesh and Nita Ambani, who reside in the lavish home known as one of the world’s most expensive private residences.

The Origins of ConnectFor

Launched in 2015, ConnectFor is a corporate social responsibility initiative backed by the Rosy Blue Foundation, the philanthropic branch of Mehta’s family business. The platform was designed to match volunteers with NGOs, addressing the growing need for resources in the nonprofit sector.

During the interview, Mehta recounted how the idea for ConnectFor was born during a casual card game. A friend returning to India after studying in the U.S. sought meaningful ways to engage before starting a corporate job. She found it challenging to connect with nonprofits, which sparked the idea in Mehta.

Having worked with the Rosy Blue Foundation, Mehta noticed a pattern: many grants were funneled to the same NGOs repeatedly due to the stringent CSR law requiring audited and annual reports. “There are so many talented individuals who could contribute to nonprofits that lack the resources to hire professionals for reporting,” Mehta explained. This realization solidified the concept of ConnectFor, paving the way for its eventual launch.

Stories of Transformation

Discussing the impact of ConnectFor, Mehta shared a transformative experience that reinforced her commitment to the initiative. “Every time we start feeling a bit restless, we hear another story of transformation,” she said. One particularly memorable story came from a phone call with a woman who signed up for volunteering early in ConnectFor’s journey.

“I remember telling her, ‘Hi, you’ve signed up. I’m connecting you with this children’s shelter home,’” Mehta recalled. The woman expressed her desire to volunteer three times a week. Initially, Mehta did not think much of it, but a year later, she received a heartfelt email from the woman.

The message revealed that the woman had joined ConnectFor during a challenging time following her husband’s passing from cancer. “She shared how volunteering at the children’s shelter brought her joy and purpose,” Mehta recounted. The shelter also praised the woman’s contributions, affirming the positive impact on both her and the children.

The Vision Behind ConnectFor

“That was the intention behind starting ConnectFor,” Mehta reflected. Despite the nonprofit being relatively small, with only about 50 children, the change it facilitated for both volunteers and recipients was profoundly inspiring.

Through ConnectFor, Shloka Mehta and Maniti Shah aim to create a more connected and supportive community, ensuring that volunteers can make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about.

Top 5 tips you should know during an interview

September 23, 2024, 3:43 am

Interviews may seem intimidating at first, but they are also a great opportunity to showcase your skills, personality, and potential. Here are the top five tips that will help you appear for your next interview with confidence and clarity:
1. Research the Company Thoroughly
When you are appearing for an interview, it is better to do some homework first. Always research the company you are applying to. It shows the prospective employer that you are serious about the job, and are willing to learn and understand their industry, business and culture. If you are aware of the company’s vision, mission, product launches or any other recent news, you will be able to better tailor your responses showing how you can add value as an employee.
=Tip: Spend some time on the company website, look over their social media accounts, and check out recent new releases or news in the industry. By doing this, you will be able to ask intelligent questions and present yourself well as a candidate who is ready to take action.
2. Understand the Job Role Inside Out
Apart from researching the company, it is also important to thoroughly read and understand the job description. This helps you understand the responsibilities and specific requirements the position will entail. This way, you can better align your experiences and skills with what the employer is looking for. Showing how your qualifications meet the job requirements can help you stand out from other candidates.
=Tip: Work through the job description, and figure out which skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Get real examples from your past where you have applied these skills.
3. Practice Behavioral Questions Using the STAR Method
It is common for interviewers to ask behavioral questions during a job interview. This helps them understand how you have handled situations in the past, and what approach you are likely to take in the future. To answer behavioral questions, the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is an effective way to structure your answers. This method ensures that you provide a clear, concise narrative that highlights your problem-solving skills and results-oriented mindset.
=Tip: Practice the STAR method for answering behavioral questions. Like, for example, answering a “Tell me about a time you managed a difficult project” question by describing the situation, your role in it, what actions you took, and how this resulted in success.
4. Communicate Clearly and Confidently
For employers, an interview is the touchstone against which a prospective employee’s communication skills are tested. This makes effective communication all the more important during an interview. While answering the interview questions, make sure that you are articulating your thoughts clearly. Speak with confidence and avoid long-winded responses. During an interview, body language plays a special role in conveying the unspoken. Therefore, it is important to maintain a good posture and eye contact while engaging actively with the interviewer.
=Tip: Practice your communication skills through mock interviews. Focus on delivering your answers in a concise and confident manner. Also, practice active listening – make sure you are answering the questions directly and asking for clarification if needed.
5. Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, interviewees are typically given the opportunity to ask questions. This is a crucial moment to showcase your genuine interest in the role and the company. Avoid asking questions that can be easily answered by a quick online search. Instead, focus on topics like company culture, team dynamics, or future growth opportunities.
=Tip: Draft 3-4 thoughtful questions in advance. For example, “What does success look like in this position?” or “How is success measured for the role I’m interviewing for?” shows that you have seriously considered how you would fit into the organization.
Final Thoughts
Remember, every interview gives you an opportunity to impress. Thorough research is a strategy to prepare and communicate in an interview so you can present
yourself as the perfect candidate. Keep in mind, interviews are a two-way street; they are about you figuring out if this company is the kind of organization that fits what you are looking for as well as them figuring out if you fit with their team.

Ajay Goyal, is the Founder & CEO of Erekrut HR Automation Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

Honey Singh Praises AP Dhillon, Karan Aujla, and Guru Randhawa as ‘Superstars,’ Explains Why He Doesn’t Include Diljit Dosanjh

September 3, 2024, 4:09 am

In a recent interview, Yo Yo Honey Singh shared his thoughts on the music industry, emphasizing that in the past decade, only a few artists like AP Dhillon, Karan Aujla, and Guru Randhawa have achieved true superstardom. He also made a point of excluding Diljit Dosanjh from this list.

Honey Singh, a pioneering force in India’s rap and hip-hop scene, discussed the evolution of the music industry and its shift towards streaming stars rather than traditional superstars. Speaking to Mid-Day, he explained that while the music landscape has seen many rise to prominence, only a handful have reached the level of superstardom. He mentioned that Diljit Dosanjh, despite his immense success, did not fit into this category because he was already established and considered a legend long before the past decade.

Singh elaborated that Dosanjh had been a significant figure in the industry for many years and had achieved his status well before the recent surge in streaming popularity. In contrast, he pointed out that while artists like Dhillon, Aujla, and Randhawa have become superstars, many others have only managed to gain attention through streaming platforms without achieving lasting superstar status. Singh views this as a significant issue within the current music scene.

In a separate interview with The Lallantop, Honey Singh candidly discussed his views on some of his popular songs. He described the song “Blue Hai Paani Paani” from the film Yaariyan 2 as “the most stupid song” he has ever written, calling it “nonsense” and lacking substance. Singh revealed that the song was completed in just two hours, including music and recording, and expressed regret over its content.

Reflecting on his earlier hits like “Lungi Dance” and “Party All Night,” Singh admitted he was not fully aware of his actions during that period and felt that the praise he received was perhaps unwarranted. He noted that even now, people remain enthusiastic about these songs, which he finds amusing.

Recently, Singh collaborated with Neha Kakkar and Guru Randhawa on the song “Hauli Hauli” from the film Khel Khel Mein.

Satish Badal On ‘Shekhar Home’: I Didn’t Prepare Much, Acting Is About Reacting To Situations | Exclusive

August 31, 2024, 6:22 pm

Satish Badal has impressed fans with his portrayal of a Bihari MLA in ‘Shekhar Home’, which premiered on OTT some time ago, The series is an adaptation of the iconic ‘Sherlock Holmes’ saga and stars Kay Kay Menon in the lead. Speaking exclusively to The Daily Guardian, Satish opened up about preparing for the show and his professional journey.. He also described Kay Kay Menon as a helpful co-star.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

What made you take up Shekhar Home?

The best part about taking up the show was that it gave me the opportunity to work with Kay Kay Menon. Moreover, I love detective shows a lot. I have followed Byomkesh Bakshy and Sherlock Holmes. I am pretty much a fan of this genre and was excited about the show being an adaptation of Sherlock Holmes.

How did you prepare for the series?

I, generally speaking, don’t prepare too much for a part. For me, it is all about reacting to the situation. Too much preparation may not always work as sometimes the director may have something else in mind or the framing of the scene may be different.

How is Kay Kay Menon as a co-star?

He is very easy to work with. There are no airs and you never feel that he is such a big actor. He helped me a lot during scenes. All in all, it was a nice learning experience for me.

Did you revisit Sherlock Holmes before the show?

Yes, I did that. In fact, I had watched Sherlock Holmes movies and the TV show a long time ago itself.

How has your professional journey been so far?

I have been in Mumbai for nearly 10 years and I wouldn’t say that I have struggled. However, there have been ups and downs. Things were different pre-lockdown and cracking an audition was a task. Moreover, OTT wasn’t that big. Now, post that things have changed. Films and series made for OTT platforms have opened new avenues for us. I have done work in ‘Khakee’ and ‘Kaala’ and have been noticed. You can also now audition from a familiar space.

Trump’s X Revival: Donald Trump’s Live ‘Unscripted’ Interview with Elon Musk | When & Where to Watch

August 13, 2024, 2:35 am

Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is poised to make a notable return to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) with a high-profile live interview with billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. This event, scheduled for Monday at 8 p.m. Eastern Time (0000 GMT Tuesday), is set to be broadcast live on X, marking Trump’s first significant engagement on the platform since August 2023.

Details of the Live Interview

The interview, described by Musk as a “live conversation,” will be unscripted and cover a broad range of topics, offering an interactive element as Musk has invited users to submit their own questions. This format aims to create a dynamic and unpredictable dialogue.

Trump’s Return to X

Trump’s return to X comes after a year-long hiatus. His first post upon returning included a video reiterating his claims that the four criminal cases against him are politically motivated. Trump’s account, @realDonaldTrump, was reinstated after Musk acquired X, following a suspension imposed after the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Despite launching Truth Social in February 2022, Trump’s posts there have not matched the reach of X, making this interview a significant opportunity to engage with a larger audience.

Potential Impact on the Election Campaign

The interview could be a pivotal moment for Trump’s campaign as he seeks to revitalize his support base and appeal to undecided voters. With Democratic rival Vice President Kamala Harris gaining momentum in polls, Trump needs a strong performance to bolster his campaign. This live conversation also presents a chance for him to reach beyond his traditional conservative supporters.

Technical Considerations

There are concerns about the technical aspects of the event, given that similar broadcasts on X have faced issues. To address these, Musk has announced plans for system scaling tests to ensure a smooth viewing experience.

How to Watch the Interview

The interview will be streamed live on Trump’s official X account, providing a direct link for millions of viewers. It is expected to attract significant attention from both Trump supporters and those interested in the broader implications of his conversation with Musk.

Additional Notes

– Pro-Trump advertisements have been reported on X leading up to the interview, though it is unclear if there is a coordinated ad campaign.

– Both X and the Trump campaign have yet to comment on these reports.

This interview represents a critical moment in Trump’s campaign strategy as the U.S. Presidential Election approaches, offering a platform to address key issues and reinforce his narrative.

2024 US Election Battle: Musk Prepares For Interview With Trump

August 12, 2024, 10:36 am

As the 2024 US presidential election approaches, the competition between Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican contender Donald Trump is intensifying. In a significant move, Trump announced on Tuesday that he will be participating in a high-profile interview with Elon Musk. Musk, in response, took to X to confirm the event and indicated that he would be conducting system scalability tests to prepare for the anticipated influx of users during the interview.

Musk, who has a substantial following on social media, shared that the interview is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on August 12. His decision to conduct scalability testing underscores his expectation of a large audience and his efforts to ensure that X’s infrastructure can handle the increased traffic without issues.

Am going to do some system scaling tests tonight & tomorrow in advance of the conversation with @realDonaldTrump

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 12, 2024

Scalability testing is a crucial process in software development, particularly for platforms expecting sudden spikes in user activity. It involves assessing an application’s performance under varying workloads to ensure that it can scale up or down effectively. The goal is to maintain smooth performance for users while optimizing development and operational costs.

On the same day as the interview announcement, Musk officially endorsed Trump following an assassination attempt on the former president at a Pennsylvania rally. Trump was shot by a gunman named Thomas Matthew Crooks, resulting in injuries to two others and the death of a 50-year-old firefighter, Corey Comperatore. Despite the attack, Trump was seen raising his fist and mouthing the word “fight,” a gesture that Musk shared on X, along with his endorsement and wishes for Trump’s swift recovery.

This upcoming interview between Musk and Trump is expected to be a significant moment in the 2024 election campaign, drawing attention from supporters and critics alike.

Ace your next interview with these ‘Confidence Boosting’ tips

February 22, 2024, 2:15 pm

Confidence is key during job interviews, as it can greatly influence the impression you make on potential employers. Here are some tips to help you appear confident and composed during your next interview:

1. Preparation: Thoroughly research the company and the position you are interviewing for. Understand the job requirements and how your skills and experiences align with them. This knowledge will boost your confidence during the interview.

2. Practice: Rehearse common interview questions and answers. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to improve your delivery and body language.

3. Posture: Sit up straight and maintain good posture throughout the interview. This not only conveys confidence but also improves your breathing and voice projection.

4. Eye contact: Maintain good eye contact with the interviewer. It shows that you are attentive and engaged in the conversation.

5. Smile: A warm and genuine smile can go a long way in creating a positive impression. It shows that you are friendly and approachable.

6. Speak clearly and confidently: Avoid speaking too fast or too softly. Articulate your words clearly and project your voice to ensure you are heard.

7. Dress appropriately: Wear professional attire that is suitable for the company culture. Looking well-groomed and put-together can boost your confidence.

8. Mind your body language: Avoid fidgeting or slouching during the interview. Use gestures naturally to emphasize your points.

9. Be positive: Focus on your strengths and achievements. Avoid negative self-talk or discussing weaknesses unless asked specifically.

10. Listen attentively: Pay attention to the interviewer’s questions and respond thoughtfully. This shows that you are interested and respectful.

By following these tips, you can present yourself as a confident and capable candidate during job interviews. Confidence, combined with preparation and a positive attitude, can greatly increase your chances of interview success.

PVR INOX on track to open 150 screens in 2024: Sanjeev Kumar Bijli

November 3, 2023, 12:57 pm

The merger of PVR and INOX saw two of the biggest theatre chains come together to offer the Indian audience the ultimate cinema-viewing experience. Having just opened their new five-screen multiplex in Gurugam, PVR INOX has strengthened its foothold in Haryana with 88 screens. Speaking exclusively to The Daily Guardian, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Ltd, talked about the new property, how theatres were revived in 2023, the biggest films in the next few months and what the company hopes to achieve in 2024. Here are excerpts from the interview.

TDG: What is the USP of the new property at Gurugram?

Our new 5-screen multiplex at Sector 80, NH-8, Gurugram, Haryana is the 13th property in Gurugram and our first one in the city after the merger. Among our presence in the state of Haryana in cities such as Faridabad, Kalka, Karnal, Yamunagar and Panipat, we have our major share of screens in Gurugram.

This is our second property with the developers, Elan Group and is located in Elan Mercado, a modern fusion of contemporary high street retail, luxury service apartments and the Multiplex. Though a neighbourhood cinema for the residents of Gurugram, the cinema will attract movie lovers from everywhere due to its strategic location on the Delhi-Jaipur highway that has easy accessibility to Delhi, Jaipur and main Gurugram.

It has the best-in-class cinema technologies, including 2K projectors for razor-sharp visuals, great sound experience with Dolby 7.1 immersive audio and vibrant Next-Gen 3D screens for visibly deeper 3D content. The multiplex has a seating capacity of 749 guests with last row recliners in all auditoriums providing utmost comfort.

TDG: 2023 seems to be the year that theatres have recovered post Covid. How has the business been this year and what’s projected for 2024 for PVR INOX?

In Q-1 of FY’24, despite volatility at the box office, we witnessed steady growth in ATP & SPH. The market share for Hindi and Hollywood was significantly higher than last year and Hollywood box office surged with impressive Q-o-Q rebound especially due to strong performances of Barbie, Oppenheimer and Mission Impossible 7. Regional box office demonstrated resilient performance and performed well across languages while volatility in performance of Hindi films reduced.

Q2 FY’24 was the best every quarter of all time for the company in terms of Admissions, ATP and SPH leading to highest ever Revenue, EBITDA and PAT. The biggest highlight of the quarter was the record-breaking performance of the Hindi box office. Jawan and Gadar 2 ranked amongst the highest-grossing Hindi films of all-time, amassing over Rs 750+ crores and Rs 620+ crores at the box office. They were complemented by solid performances of mid-budget movies, with Rocky aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani and Oh my God 2 grossing Rs 150+ crs and Dream Girl 2 crossing the Rs 100 crore mark. Fukrey 3 released near quarter end, also crossed Rs 100 crore at the box office. In Hollywood, Oppenheimer and Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part 1 set a fantastic tone, grossing Rs 150+ crores and Rs 130+ crores in India. Barbie and Nun II also performed well, crossing the Rs 50+ crore mark. On the regional front, Jailer (Tamil), featuring Rajinikanth, stood out with an impressive box office collection of over Rs 390 crores. Other regional successes such as Baipan Bhari Deva (Marathi) and Carry on Jatta 3 (Punjabi) secured substantial earnings, reaching Rs 90+ crores and Rs 44+ crores, respectively.

TDG: How has Indian regional cinema content (non-Hindi) strengthened the portfolio and PVR INOX business?

We have witnessed a significant change in mix between Hindi and Regional content from pre-pandemic to FY’23, our Box Office share of Regional Content grew from 23% to 33%. Regional box office has shown relative stability with low volatility with blockbuster performances from Carry on Jatta 3 (Punjabi), Baipan Bhari Deva (Marathi), Jailer (Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada), Kushi and Bro (Telugu). Robust regional content lineup continues to drive strong box office performance.

TDG: What are the big releases – Hindi, English, regional – in Nov-Dec that’ll end the year on a bang for PVR INOX?

In the upcoming months, we are highly optimistic about the content lineup across various languages. This includes eagerly awaited Hindi releases like Tiger 3, Animal, Sam Bahadur, Yodha and Dunki. Hollywood enthusiasts can look forward to The Marvels, Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour Movie, Napoleon, Wonka and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Additionally, regional cinema offers compelling releases such as Captain Miller, Salaar, Operation Valentine, Hi Nanna, and more. We are excited to bring a diverse and captivating cinematic experience to our audience in the months ahead.

TDG: What are some of the challenges you still continue to face? Will they be overcome in 2024?

Following our recent merger, we have been diligently working to realize the full potential of this strategic union. Our integration process has been progressing seamlessly, yielding substantial operational efficiencies. Box office revenue synergies have taken place with optimized programming strategy through efficient scheduling, occupancy linked dynamic pricing and improved customer engagement with personalized offers and promotions. F&B revenue synergies have yielded through weekday/weekend offer, introduction of non-veg food at INOX while overhead cost synergies have resulted through renegotiation of Contracts, efficient manpower planning, standardizing SOPs across PVR INOX and moving to common vendors.

PVR INOX continues its strong growth momentum, with 37 new screens openings in 7 cinemas during Q-2 and a total of 68 new screens in 12 cinemas in H1 FY’24. We are firmly on track to open a total of 150-160 new screens in FY’24, and will fund this growth through internal accruals. Thanks to the robust financial performance and substantial free cash flow generation, we have successfully reduced our net debt by INR 3,276 million in H1’FY24. This achievement firmly positions us on the path to achieving a free cash flow positive status by the end of FY’24. We are on course to deliver a significant portion of merger synergies in FY’24.

Bollywood is on the cards: Ronit Ashra

September 21, 2022, 1:11 am

Q: Do you remember your first video? What was it about?
A: Yes, I do remember the topic of my very first video. It was a duet with Ananya Panday. I began to imitate all the other celebs after that since it was favourably received.
Q: When did you decide to make content creation your full-time career?
A: Since I’ve been making videos for about 7 years and have had my ups and downs, I planned on making content creation my full-time career. Once, I nearly quit making videos because of the algorithm system, since I used to produce quick films and, despite posting them frequently, I didn’t receive much engagement. But, with time, I discovered that I am good at it and that I should continue doing it.
Q: Which celebrity do you enjoy mimicking the most?
A: Since a duet in one of my most well-liked videos included Ananya Panday, I’ve attempted it before with Alia Bhatt as well, so I really enjoy mimicking Ananya Panday and Alia Bhatt the most.
Q: What is the toughest part of content creation, according to you?
A: The hardest aspect of creating content for me is making videos since it relies so much on my entire team and the foundation clip, whose preparation takes about 4-5 days and has the exact structure outlined in it.
Q: Which video of yours are you most proud of?
A: I am proud of each and every one of my videos because they all required my complete effort and dedication.
I’ve said that I enjoy the way I make videos.
Q: What do you do to stay relevant amidst the fleeting attention of people?
A: As you can clearly see, my viewpoint is based on how relevant the subject matter is to the audience. Working on the material works for me since I have to put every last effort I have into it.
Q: Amid constant judgement on social media, how do you maintain your sanity?
A: It shocks me to learn that the personalities I like and have been following for such a long time are aware of me. The fact is, we do this to gain recognition, so it’s rewarding when well-known celebrities appreciate your work.
Consequently, it is how I keep my sanity.
Q: What’s next for you? Is Bollywood on the cards?
A: My next objective, now that I have formally relocated to Bombay, is to focus on partnerships.
I want to upload videos more frequently since I took a month’s break when I moved to Mumbai, and I wasn’t on the verge of becoming an influencer; I just disappeared.
In addition to taking acting lessons at my college, I now wish to post more regularly, and yes, eventually Bollywood is on the cards.