India Archive

Vicky Kaushal’s latest film, "Chhaava," based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second Maratha emperor, has emerged as the biggest cinematic success of 2025. The film, which captures the resilience and bravery of the Maratha warrior, set a new record with the highest opening of Kaushal’s career. It narrates Sambhaji Maharaj’s unwavering dedication to his father, the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and his ultimate sacrifice in resisting the tyrannical rule of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The movie has achieved an astounding Rs. 219.75 crore net collection in India within just seven days, proving its massive appeal among audiences. Co-starring Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna, the film delivers a powerful portrayal of history that has deeply resonated with viewers.

In a significant ruling, the Bombay High Court granted bail to a 24-year-old man who had been charged with raping an 14-year-old girl. The decision, announced on February 17, was based on the court's observation that the victim had "voluntarily" stayed with the accused for four days and possessed "sufficient knowledge" and "capacity" to understand the "full consequence of her acts." The order was passed by Justice Milind Jadhav, who carefully considered the circumstances surrounding the case before arriving at his conclusion.

Bengaluru, a city known for its thriving tech industry and vibrant nightlife, witnessed a shocking incident that left residents and authorities alarmed. Five young men—identified as Nayeem, Arafat, Sahil, Nanjamat, and Adnan—were arrested by the Bengaluru police for brandishing swords in broad daylight while recklessly performing stunts on motorcycles. The act, which was recorded by a fellow rider, quickly went viral on social media, drawing sharp criticism from the public and prompting swift police action.

A shocking incident of violence unfolded in Bihar’s Jamui district, specifically in the Jhajha police station area, where Islamists launched a brutal attack on devotees returning from a Hanuman Chalisa recital at the Hanuman Temple in Baliyadih village. The attack involved relentless stone pelting, leaving half a dozen people injured and causing severe damage to multiple vehicles. The scale of the assault has left the entire region in distress, raising serious concerns about the law and order situation in the area.

On Thursday (13th February), an intriguing legal decision was made by the Bombay High Court. The court granted bail [pdf] to a man named Mohammed Ajaan Khan, who was accused of a serious crime involving a minor. Khan faced charges for the alleged rape and subsequent impregnation of a young girl, not once but twice over a period that spanned 15 months.

Podcasters and YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina are facing intense criticism after an inappropriate comment made on India’s Got Latent went viral. The comment, widely deemed offensive, has drawn sharp backlash from political leaders, influencers, and actors. As a result, YouTube India was compelled to take down the episode on the directive of the Indian government. Multiple police complaints and an FIR have been filed against Ranveer—also known as Beer Biceps—Samay, and the other judges of the show, including Apoorva Makhija, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and the show's creators.

Sonam Wangchuk, the self-styled activist, never seems to stay out of controversy for long. His attention-grabbing stunts, like “fasting unto death,” are well-known. But this time, he crossed a line by attending a climate conference in Pakistan—yes, Pakistan—just days before returning to India to oppose development in Pune.

On Tuesday, 4th February, the historic city of Madurai witnessed a massive wave of protests as thousands of Hindus gathered at Palakkanatham to stand against what they believe to be a serious threat to their religious heritage. The unrest was sparked by allegations that Islamists are laying claim to the Thiruparankundram hill, a sacred site that houses the ancient Murugan Temple, a place of immense spiritual significance for Hindus.

On Sunday, 2nd February, a historic event unfolded in Johannesburg, South Africa, as the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere was inaugurated. The grand ceremony, attended by thousands of Hindu worshippers, marked a monumental moment for the Indian community in South Africa, whose cultural and religious identity is deeply interwoven with Hinduism. This temple is not just a spiritual milestone but a reflection of the profound cultural heritage carried by the Indian diaspora in the nation. The unveiling was led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, adding significance to the occasion.

The sudden disappearance of 75 Bangladeshi nationals arrested in Tamil Nadu last year has stirred widespread alarm regarding the state's security measures. This incident highlights significant lapses in managing illegal immigration, prompting Tamil Nadu BJP chief K. Annamalai to voice strong disapproval. He accused the state government of "failing to handle critical issues that jeopardize national security." His words reflect growing concerns over Tamil Nadu's approach towards the influx of undocumented immigrants.