One India One World at LPU: Goa and Uganda Shine in Journalism and Mass Communication Stall

One India One World festival at Lovely Professional University (LPU) was a spectacular display of cultural fusion and creativity, with the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication taking centre stage. Representing two unique and vibrant cultures—Goa and Uganda—the department curated stunning stalls that not only showcased the essence of these places but also engaged visitors journey through their rich traditions, food, and artistry.

Goa Stall: The Pearl of the Ancient World

The Goa stall was a beautiful tribute to the state’s rich cultural history, vibrant arts, and delicious cuisine. Goa, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Ancient World," is known for its breath-taking beaches, colonial heritage, and lively traditions. The stall creatively showcased these aspects, giving visitors a glimpse into the soul of Goa. A man with a guitar and a Bullet bike represented the state’s youthful spirit and love for music and adventure, instantly capturing the attention of the crowd. Goa’s blend of spirituality and culture was evident in a prominent Lord Ganesh statue, symbolizing the deep Hindu roots that thrive in the state.

A traditional Goan hut displayed the simple, rustic lifestyle of the rural Goan community, while a boat model served as a reminder of Goa’s iconic coastline and its thriving fishing industry. To bring the “Pearl of the Ancient World” to life, the stall also featured meticulously crafted food models, including dishes like Goan Fish Curry, Pork Vindaloo, Chicken Xacuti, Bebinca, and Sanan. These small-scale representations gave visitors a taste of Goa's renowned culinary delights.

Traditional Goan dance performances added another layer of excitement to the stall, immersing the audience in the rhythm and spirit of Goa. For those seeking to take home a piece of Goa, students also offered customized picture frames, bookmarks, and other handmade items for sale, providing a souvenir that captured the essence of the state.

Uganda Stall: The Pearl of Africa

The Uganda stall shone brightly as the “Pearl of Africa,” a title famously coined by Winston Churchill to describe the country’s extraordinary beauty and diversity. Uganda's rich culture, art, and history were showcased through stunning displays that transported visitors to the heart of East Africa. The stall featured a collection of pictures and pottery jewellery, highlighting Uganda’s craftsmanship and artistic traditions. Intricately designed masks and drum models were crafted to symbolize the powerful music and ceremonial traditions that are integral to Uganda’s identity.

Interactive puzzles and games added an engaging element to the stall, giving visitors the opportunity to explore Uganda's culture in a fun and educational way. These activities not only entertained but also helped foster a deeper understanding of the country's vibrant traditions. Together, these displays embodied the heart of Uganda’s "Pearl of Africa" identity, giving visitors a deep appreciation for the culture and beauty of this East African nation.

A Celebration of Global Unity and Culture

Both the Goa and Uganda stalls served as shining examples of what makes these regions truly special. Goa, with its status as the "Pearl of the Ancient World", brought a rich history, a coastal charm, and a spicy flavour to the festival. Meanwhile, Uganda, the "Pearl of Africa," captivated visitors with its diverse artistic expressions and rich cultural heritage. Through their efforts, the Journalism and Mass Communication students at LPU not only brought the essence of these regions to life but also created an immersive, interactive experience that celebrated the spirit of global unity. The One India One World event was a testament to the power of culture in connecting people from all corners of the world, showing that no matter where we come from, we are united by our shared humanity and the beauty of our differences.

LPU Celebrates ‘One India, One World’ with Om Birla as Chief Guest: A Grand Showcase of Global and Indian Diversity

Phagwara, April 24: Lovely Professional University (LPU) proudly hosted its vibrant cultural festival One India, One World on April 22, 23, and 24, 2025, celebrating the rich tapestry of global and Indian traditions. The prestigious event was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Shri Om Birla, who commended the university for promoting unity and multiculturalism.

On April 23rd, the campus came alive with a colorful procession where students from different Indian states and international countries showcased their traditional attire, music, and dance forms. States like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Goa, and countries including Madagascar, South Africa, Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Tanzania, and many others participated enthusiastically, bringing the spirit of their homelands to LPU’s grounds.

April 24th was dedicated to stalls, where students creatively displayed the culture, customs, festivals, cuisine, and traditions of their respective states and countries. Each stall was a lively representation, offering a unique glimpse into the diverse heritage of India and the world. Visitors explored various cuisines, traditional clothing, artifacts, and cultural practices, experiencing a mini-world tour right on campus.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Om Birla emphasized the importance of cultural understanding in building a harmonious global society. "LPU’s One India, One World festival stands as a testament to India’s philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — the world is one family," he remarked.

The three-day celebration witnessed overwhelming participation and appreciation, further strengthening LPU’s reputation as a global hub for education, culture, and unity.

LPU Comes Alive with Colors, Culture, and Celebration at ‘One India, One World’ 2025!

Lovely Professional University (LPU) is all set to turn into a global and cultural carnival with its much-awaited annual event ‘One India, One World’, happening on 22th, 23th, and 24th April 2025. This three-day extravaganza is more than just a celebration — it's a powerful showcase of unity in diversity, where every department at LPU comes together to represent different Indian states and global nations.

With enthusiasm running high across campus, students from every corner of LPU are working round-the-clock to bring their assigned cultures to life — through music, food, fashion, art, and more!

Day-wise Celebration Highlights

Day 1: The Grand Procession & Cultural Kick-off

The event will begin with a colorful procession, where departments will march across the campus in traditional attire, waving flags, dancing, and introducing their assigned states and countries. Later in the day, the campus will light up with electrifying performances, including cultural dances, musical acts, and a dazzling fashion show displaying regional and international costumes.

Day 2: Cultural Exhibitions & Food Stalls

Departments will set up interactive stalls representing their assigned regions. From traditional cuisines to folk art, games, souvenirs, and cultural trivia, visitors will get a true taste of both India and the world. The stalls promise to be a vibrant hotspot of creativity and celebration.

Day 3: Final Showdown & Result Declaration

As the event nears its end, the excitement will peak with the announcement of results. One department will be crowned the winner for showcasing the most authentic, innovative, and engaging representation. It’s a moment of glory that every team is striving hard for!

Departments Bringing Cultures to Life

• Department of Journalism and Mass Communication is proudly representing Goa (India) and Uganda (Africa), preparing a colorful blend of beach vibes and East African energy.

• B.Tech ECE Department will showcase the rich traditions and innovation of Tamil Nadu.

• Law Department is putting its creative minds together to bring the breathtaking landscapes and culture of Jammu & Kashmir to life.

•  Other departments are equally geared up to represent states like Rajasthan, Kerala, Punjab and countries such as Madagascar, Tanzania, Kenya, and more.

Excitement in the Air

The campus is buzzing with rehearsals, costume trials, stall planning, and endless enthusiasm. “We’re not just showcasing a culture — we’re living it,” says a student from the Mass Communication department. From learning traditional dances to mastering foreign greetings, students are immersing themselves in their assigned cultures with unmatched energy.

“This is more than a competition; it’s a learning experience and a celebration of global unity,” said one of the event coordinators.

Why It Matters

One India, One World is not just an event; it’s a celebration of diversity, cultural empathy, and teamwork. It teaches students to step into someone else's shoes — or rather, traditional juttis or sandals — and understand the beauty of different traditions, languages, and ways of life.

As the countdown begins, one thing is certain — LPU is about to transform into a vibrant cultural mosaic, with thousands of students coming together to celebrate the spirit of India and the world.

Stay tuned for all the colors, beats, and flavors that are about to take over LPU!

Kancha Gachibowli Land Row: Students, SC Step In to Save Hyderabad's Last Urban Forest

source

The Supreme Court has directed the Telangana government to halt deforestation in the Kancha Gachibowli region, bringing temporary relief to a threatened green space and energizing a protest movement led by students, activists, and environmental groups.

At the heart of the issue is a 400-acre patch of forested land — a rare green lung in the middle of Hyderabad’s expanding Financial District — that the state government plans to auction for the development of IT parks. But what began as a routine urban development plan has now escalated into a legal, ecological, and civic standoff.

What Makes Kancha Gachibowli Special?

Kancha Gachibowli is one of the last remaining urban forests in Hyderabad. Situated beside the University of Hyderabad (UoH), this green expanse hosts a vibrant ecosystem of bird, mammal, and reptile species, many of which fall under protected categories. It also features stunning ancient rock formations, including the popular ‘Mushroom Rock’.

Environmentalists stress that such forests moderate urban climates, absorb pollution, and serve as natural carbon sinks — essential for a city grappling with increasing concrete sprawl and heat islands.

source

Student Protests and the Rise of #SaveKanchaGachibowli

Ever since the Telangana government announced its auction plan in February 2024, students from UoH and activists have launched a vigorous protest campaign. Rallies, sit-ins, and social media drives under the hashtag #SaveKanchaGachibowli have become increasingly visible.

Groups like Save City Forest, comprising nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, have also joined the fight, raising alarms about the absence of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or any wildlife clearance — both of which are mandatory under Indian law if endangered species are involved.

What the Government Says

The Telangana government maintains that the land lies within Hyderabad’s lucrative Financial District, and developing it could bring ₹50,000 crore in investments and create up to 5 lakh jobs.

The Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) has stated that their layout plan retains green zones and conserves natural features like rock formations. They argue that the development is essential for Hyderabad's growing IT infrastructure.

 Legal Grey Zones and Land Ownership

Legally, the state government is the rightful owner of the 400 acres. The land was originally part of a 2,300-acre parcel allotted to UoH in 1974, but multiple re-allocations have chipped away at this area over decades.

Interestingly, in 2003, the then-united Andhra Pradesh government leased this land to a private sports management firm, which failed to use it, leading the state to reclaim it in 2006. The move triggered a lengthy legal battle, eventually leading the Supreme Court to reaffirm that the Telangana government retains ownership.

However, the land has never been formally demarcated or notified as a forest — despite being visibly forested and ecologically integrated into UoH’s ecosystem. This ambiguity is central to the current legal and moral debate.

Citing the Godavarman Case

Protestors are now citing the Supreme Court’s landmark 1996 verdict in T N Godavarman Thirumulpad v Union of India. The ruling held that any land with forest characteristics qualifies as “forest land”, even if it isn’t officially notified as such.

This interpretation brings the Kancha Gachibowli forest under the purview of environmental and wildlife protection laws — meaning that clearing it without legal environmental clearances could be illegal.

What’s Next?

With the Supreme Court stepping in, deforestation has been paused for now. But the long-term future of Kancha Gachibowli remains uncertain. The case has ignited a wider conversation about urban planning, ecological responsibility, and legal reform in India’s rapidly growing cities.

For many in Hyderabad, the fight is not just about saving a forest — it’s about rethinking what development should look like in a climate-stressed world.

IPL 2025: Action, Drama & Comebacks – Latest Highlights from the League

source

The Indian Premier League 2025 is heating up with every match, delivering a perfect mix of edge-of-the-seat thrillers, spectacular performances, and emotional comebacks. As fans across the globe stay glued to their screens, here’s a detailed breakdown of all the major stories and standout moments dominating IPL 2025 this week:

Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru – Clash of Titans at Wankhede

The Mumbai Indians won the toss and chose to bowl first in their high-voltage match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With Hardik Pandya at the helm and Jasprit Bumrah back in the squad alongside Rohit Sharma, MI look fired up to turn things around on home turf.

RCB, led by a confident Faf du Plessis, is relying heavily on Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell to stabilize their top order. The match is underway and already showing signs of being a thrilling encounter. MI fans are eager to see if Hardik can live up to the pressure of captaincy in what could be a defining clash early in the season.

Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru – Clash of Titans at Wankhede

The Mumbai Indians won the toss and chose to bowl first in their high-voltage match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With Hardik Pandya at the helm and Jasprit Bumrah back in the squad alongside Rohit Sharma, MI look fired up to turn things around on home turf.

RCB, led by a confident Faf du Plessis, is relying heavily on Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell to stabilize their top order. The match is underway and already showing signs of being a thrilling encounter. MI fans are eager to see if Hardik can live up to the pressure of captaincy in what could be a defining clash early in the season. 

source

Rajasthan Royals’ Dominance Continues

In a commanding display, Rajasthan Royals defeated Punjab Kings by 50 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with the bat, scoring a composed 67 off 45 deliveries, setting the tone early on.

But it was Jofra Archer’s fiery spell that stole the show — taking two wickets in his very first over and ending with figures of 3/25. Archer’s resurgence is great news for RR, who now look like serious contenders this season. Sanju Samson lauded his bowlers and said this was the kind of intensity they were aiming for.

Rajasthan Royals’ Dominance Continues

In a commanding display, Rajasthan Royals defeated Punjab Kings by 50 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with the bat, scoring a composed 67 off 45 deliveries, setting the tone early on.

But it was Jofra Archer’s fiery spell that stole the show — taking two wickets in his very first over and ending with figures of 3/25. Archer’s resurgence is great news for RR, who now look like serious contenders this season. Sanju Samson lauded his bowlers and said this was the kind of intensity they were aiming for.

Jackie Shroff & Nana's Legacy – Off the Field Impact

Interestingly, Jackie Shroff made headlines off the pitch during a promotional event with the Rajasthan Royals where he playfully reenacted his villainous "Nana" persona from Baby John to hype up the Royals’ bowlers. His cameo sparked viral moments on social media and added to the already electric atmosphere around the team’s recent wins.

Source

Jos Buttler Reborn with Gujarat Titans

Jos Buttler, after stepping down as England’s white-ball captain, seems to have rediscovered his spark in the IPL. Playing for Gujarat Titans, he’s already racked up two half-centuries and is currently the third-highest run-scorer of the season.

Buttler said in a post-match interview that leaving captaincy behind has given him “freedom to just enjoy the game,” and his form is a massive boost for the Titans' campaign.

Points Table Snapshot (as of April 7, 2025):

Position	Team	Wins	Matches	NRR
1	Delhi Capitals	2	3	+0.780
2	Punjab Kings	2	3	+0.510
3	Gujarat Titans	2	4	+0.300
4	Rajasthan Royals	2	3	+0.220
5	Mumbai Indians	1	2	+0.100

What to Watch Next:

• Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings – A battle of experience vs youth.

• Lucknow Super Giants look to continue their winning streak.

• Will RCB finally fix their middle-order struggles?

Final Thoughts:

IPL 2025 is shaping up to be a thrilling tournament with big names delivering, young guns stepping up, and comebacks adding drama to the cricketing spectacle. With almost every team showing flashes of brilliance, fans can expect the unexpected in the weeks to come.

Stay tuned for more daily updates, player interviews, match analysis, and exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from the biggest T20 league in the world!

Movie Review: Baby John

Source

Varun Dhawan Shines in a High-Octane Yet Predictable Action Drama. Bollywood’s year-end offering, Baby John, promises an explosive blend of action, emotion, and drama—delivering on spectacle, if not on originality. Directed by Kalees and penned by the trio of Atlee, Sumit Arora, and Kalees, the film rides on familiar tropes of revenge and redemption. What elevates it from being just another masala actioner is Varun Dhawan, who brings sincerity and swagger in equal measure.

Plot Snapshot:

John D’Silva (Varun Dhawan) appears to be a mild-mannered bakery owner and a doting single father to his adorable daughter Khushi (Zara Zyanna). Their peaceful life is disrupted when Tara (Wamiqa Gabbi), a teacher at Khushi’s school, saves a trafficked girl and ends up at the police station—unknowingly exposing John’s real identity: DCP Satya Verma, a once-fearless supercop with a deadly past.

The resurfacing of his true identity reawakens a vengeful enemy—Nana (Jackie Shroff), a powerful criminal whose son died at the hands of Satya. With Khushi’s life now under threat, Satya must shed his peaceful persona and embrace his violent past to protect the only person he loves.

Direction & Storytelling:

While Baby John sets up a strong emotional core—especially through the tender father-daughter bond and Satya’s mysterious past—the screenplay struggles to balance the dual timelines. The flashback sequences, particularly those involving his romance with Dr. Meera (Keerthy Suresh), feel mechanical and formulaic.

Director Kalees, in collaboration with Atlee, sticks to a safe, crowd-pleasing format: high-stakes drama, stylized action, slow-motion struts, and heavy background scores. Unfortunately, the narrative does little to surprise, as it closely follows the blueprint of several action dramas before it. However, a few playful self-references (like the “Bhediya” nod to Varun’s earlier film) offer light-hearted relief amid the intensity.

source

Performances:

• Varun Dhawan delivers a commendable performance, showcasing a matured balance between action heroism and emotional vulnerability. As both the gentle father and the tough-as-nails cop, he holds the screen confidently and carries much of the film’s emotional weight.

• Wamiqa Gabbi, though underutilized in terms of backstory, leaves an impact with her strong screen presence and conviction. Her chemistry with Varun adds freshness to the otherwise gritty narrative.

• Zara Zyanna, as Khushi, is the emotional heart of the film. Her moments with Varun are warm and believable, adding tenderness amid the tension.

• Jackie Shroff is in top villainous form as the menacing Nana. He brings gravitas and menace to his scenes, making his limited screen time memorable.

• Rajpal Yadav, in a supporting role as constable Sevakram, surprises with a blend of humor and earnestness, delivering more than just comic relief.

Technical Aspects & Action:

The film is a visual treat in parts, thanks to Kiran Koushik’s cinematography, which captures dynamic action sequences with slick flair. The use of pyrotechnics, fast-paced chase scenes, and slow-motion combat adds to the adrenaline, even if the execution sometimes outweighs narrative logic.

The background score and sound design play a pivotal role in heightening tension, although the soundtrack itself is largely forgettable.

Verdict:

Baby John is an action-packed drama that thrives on style and star power. While the plot is nothing we haven’t seen before, it’s Varun Dhawan’s earnest performance and the father-daughter dynamic that keep you invested. The film stumbles with a disjointed narrative and overused tropes, but offers just enough in terms of action and emotion to warrant a watch.

Watch it if:

• You’re a Varun Dhawan fan and want to see him in a more intense, action-packed role.

• You enjoy stylized Bollywood masala entertainers with emotional undertones.

• You like father-daughter bonding stories with a thriller edge.

 Skip it if:

• You’re expecting a fresh, unpredictable story.

• You’re not a fan of formulaic action films.

 Final Word:

“Baby John is all heart and high-flying fists—but it could’ve packed a stronger punch with a tighter, more original script.”

Critic’s Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5)

Movie Review: Mere Husband Ki Biwi

Source

A Breezy Entertainer That Works Despite a Familiar Setup Bollywood’s tryst with love triangles continues — this time with retrograde amnesia, a confused groom, and two feisty women battling for one man’s affection. Mere Husband Ki Biwi, directed by Mudassar Aziz, is an entertaining romantic comedy that revisits old-school tropes but manages to serve enough laughs and drama to stay afloat.

Plot Overview:

Ankur Chaddha (Arjun Kapoor), still emotionally bruised from a messy divorce, finds love again with his college crush, Antara Khanna (Rakul Preet Singh). Just as the couple is about to get engaged, his ex-wife Prabhleen Kaur (Bhumi Pednekar) makes a dramatic return — suffering from retrograde amnesia after a car accident. She believes she’s still happily married to Ankur.

Advised not to break the truth to her suddenly, Ankur juggles between protecting Prabhleen’s fragile mental state and staying true to his relationship with Antara. What follows is a comedy of errors, emotional confrontations, and classic rom-com chaos as the two women fight for love — and the confused man stuck in the middle.

Direction – Mudassar Aziz’s Flavour of Fun and Familiarity:

Mudassar Aziz, known for directing films like Happy Bhag Jayegi and Pati Patni Aur Woh, sticks to his signature blend of humour, emotional confusion, and colorful characters. He brings his flair for lighthearted storytelling to this film, ensuring it never gets too serious even when things seem messy. However, while the first half breezes along with quick wit and snappy dialogues, the second half gets weighed down by clichés and familiar plot devices.

From pre-wedding drama in a scenic Scotland setting to competitive cooking and sangeet sabotage — the film feels like a throwback to ‘90s romantic comedies. Yet, Aziz’s direction ensures the pace is mostly lively, with well-timed gags and heartfelt moments sprinkled throughout.

Source

Supporting Cast Shines:

Stand-up comedian Harsh Gujral, making his film debut, is the surprise package of the movie. Playing Ankur’s best friend Rehan, Harsh delivers one-liners and punchy roasts with impeccable comic timing. His scenes bring the loudest laughs and give the film a much-needed edge, especially when the narrative gets repetitive.

Dino Morea also makes a suave cameo as Antara’s brother — a stylish addition who doesn’t do much for the plot, but certainly adds to the glamour quotient.

Music & Visuals:

The soundtrack is peppy and situational, with tracks like “Sajna Ji Shaadi” and “Tu Hi Toh Hai” fitting perfectly into the wedding-themed narrative. While the songs won’t top charts, they serve their purpose in moving the story along. The background score stays light and breezy, complementing the rom-com vibe.

Cinematography captures the picturesque Scottish locations beautifully, adding to the film’s dreamy, big-fat-wedding aesthetic.

Verdict:

Mere Husband Ki Biwi doesn’t reinvent the rom-com wheel, but it spins it just enough to make you laugh, smile, and maybe even reflect a little on the messiness of love and second chances. It’s a formulaic film, sure — but elevated by funny dialogues, a charismatic cast, and Mudassar Aziz’s easygoing direction.

While deeper emotional beats are glossed over and character arcs — especially Prabhleen’s — feel half-baked, the film still manages to entertain.

Critic's Rating: 3.0/5