It’s that time of the year when rainbow hues take over social media, and not so subtly announce that Pride Month is here. While the absence of nuance is an everyday reality in the reportage of LGBTQIA+ lived experiences, it is woefully evident during the month of June as organisations try to capitalise on rainbow washing. It takes more than a rainbow-themed logo, quirky social media posts, or limited-edition products to be an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. Beyond superficial visibility, community members and allies have begun demanding impactful inclusion from organisations that seek to benefit from their support of LGBTQIA+ community. This often leads to brands, amidst the scarcity of openly LGBTQIA+ creators, trying to squeeze as much 'queer content' as possible during Pride Month. However, consumers aren’t fooled by brands who try to leverage queer creators to seem woke or gain social capital. This Pride Month, we speak to influencers Manish Poonam and Sujal Thakkar, who delve into the difference between tokenism and effective allyship, meaningful support, and how allies can leverage their privilege to create tangible change. Token gestures versus genuine support: A clear distinctionActor Manish Poonam, who is also a dancer, choreographer and influencer, critically observes common token gestures prevalent during Pride Month. "Genuine support isn’t seasonal—it’s not limited to just one month, because queer people don’t exist only during Pride Month," he asserts. It is critical to have brands further the conversation and challenge norms during Pride Month, but it cannot just be during a single month, and by using queer creators as a marketing ploy. "Our identities, our struggles, our joy—they’re real every single day. So, if you’re only showing up in June, that’s not allyship—that’s marketing." Manish, who identifies as queer, points to brands exclusively engaging queer influencers with large followings for promotional campaigns such as rainbow washing. While acknowledging the importance of visibility, he stresses, "If it stops there, it feels performative”. He further also raises a crucial point: "What about the queer folks on the streets—especially trans people who are still begging for survival? Is Pride Month changing anything for them? That’s where brands need to think deeper." According to the Mumbai resident, genuine allyship manifests in "creating long-term initiatives that empower the entire queer community—not just the visible few. Fund queer-led programs, donate to organisations, invite lesser-known queer individuals into your studios, give them platforms, make them feel seen and safe. Support should not just amplify voices that are already heard—but also uplift those who are still struggling to be heard. That’s when it becomes real. That’s when it becomes allyship." Sujal Thakkar, a beauty and entertainment creator, echoes this sentiment when discussing signs of performative support from brands. When asked how he recognises whether a brand’s collaboration proposals are aimed at capitalising on queer labour during Pride Month, Thakkar says, "A brand’s queer support is likely performative if it only shows up during Pride Month and lacks queer leadership or creators. Keep an eye out for rainbow merchandise with no year-round action or support during crises. If the brand backs down under pressure or has funded anti-LGBTQIA+ causes, it’s a red flag. Real allies act beyond optics. Consistently, loudly, and with real impact.” The emotional and professional toll of being a "token" queer person in campaigns or conversations is significant. Thakkar, who identifies as gay reflects, "Being the ‘token’ queer person can feel isolating and performative. Emotionally, it creates pressure to represent an entire community, which is exhausting and unfair. Professionally, it can limit growth if you’re seen only for your identity, not your full talent. It often leads to frustration, invisibility, or burnout." Impactful allyship in actionManish shares a significant personal instance of impactful allyship: his casting as Moksh, a queer character, in Campus Beats. "In an industry that often reduces queer roles to stereotypes or comic relief, this was different. Moksh was written with authenticity, sensitivity, and importance. He wasn’t there to be laughed at or sidelined—he was part of the core story." What made it truly impactful, he notes, was the team's decision to cast a queer person in a queer role, calling it a bold and much-needed step. "This isn’t just about me getting a role—it’s about what it signals to so many queer artists out there. It generates hope. It may seem like one casting choice, but for the queer community, it’s a door opening. A moment of being seen. A sign that the industry can shift—and is beginning to,” Poonam emphasises. Sujal Thakkar recounts a powerful moment of allyship from his own life, "Once my professor said something homophobic in class. When I spoke up, most people stayed silent. Except my female friends, who stood by me and complained behalf. That day, I realised true allies don’t need to be part of the community to stand with us! And that felt really comforting." Uncomfortable but necessary conversations for tangible changeThe influencers agree that true allyship often requires stepping into uncomfortable conversations. Manish elaborates, "Allyship doesn’t begin on stage or social media—it begins inside homes, in everyday conversations, in the rooms where queer people are often spoken about, but rarely spoken for." He urges allies, " Speak up in those private spaces—when someone makes a joke, passes a comment, or questions someone’s identity. Even if it makes things uncomfortable. Because that discomfort is nothing compared to what queer people face daily, just by existing." Thakkar succinctly puts it, "Posting online is easy, but real allyship means calling out a friend’s slur or your uncle’s transphobic behaviour in a family gathering, even if it makes things awkward. That’s how you use your privilege in a way that matters." On the other hand, Manish adds that for those with privilege, allyship necessitates action beyond mere words. "Create opportunities for queer people—not just during Pride Month, but throughout the year. Support queer-led initiatives, fund education or training for queer youth, and most importantly—create space without making us feel like we owe you for it. We’re not here to fight or prove our worth. We’re here to live freely, safely, and with dignity. And when you help create that space—not just in public but in private—that’s where real change begins," he concludes. Beyond optics: The call for true inclusionSonica Aron, founder and CEO of Marching Sheep, an HR consultancy firm, provides an organisational perspective on genuine inclusion. She states, "Every June, we see the rainbow colours everywhere—logos change, products get a Pride-themed twist, and there’s a rush of posts about support and celebration. But ask anyone from the LGBTQIA+ community, and you’ll hear one common question— 'Where is this support the rest of the year?' That’s where the difference between visibility and true inclusion begins." Aron differentiates, "Visibility is the surface. It’s when companies post about Pride, invite a few influencers, or organise a panel discussion in June. It may come from a good place, but if it stops there, it’s not enough." She argues, "If they were to drive Inclusion with intent all year round, create a culture of belonging, psychological safety and disclosure, and celebrate the outcomes during June, that visibility would have more meaning." For the entrepreneur inclusion needs consistent and continuous action. It’s about policies, practices, mindset shifts and behaviour. “It’s about creating a space where people feel safe being who they are—without fear, shame, or judgment. That’s the real work, and it doesn’t happen in a month. It takes time, effort, and intention,” she adds. She outlines key elements of real allyship for brands and leaders:• Listen with an open mind and heart: For many, it’s not about being 'included' in June events. It’s about being respected, heard and valued in everyday meetings, being called by the right name and pronouns, being invited to social events with a chosen family, being promoted without bias, and being treated like anyone else.• Don’t wait for Pride Month to show support: She urges questions like: Are your policies inclusive of all genders and orientations? Does your health insurance cover same-sex partners or gender-affirming care? Is your prevention of sexual harassment policy inclusive of all genders and sexual orientations? Are you sensitising your teams about language, pronouns and bias? Can employees speak up if something feels wrong, without fear?• Keep communication real and respectful: Support doesn’t always have to be loud or fancy. A simple post amplifying queer voices, celebrating everyday stories, apologising for making a mistake, taking feedback with humility, or even just standing up to a casual joke in the office can mean a lot. Thakkar also emphasises what meaningful support from beauty brands would look like: "Real support from beauty brands means making products everyone can use, including trans and non-binary people. Their ads should show real LGBTQIA+ people from different parts of India, all year, not just during Pride. It’s about standing with the community for the long run, not just for attention." Towards a Pride yearAs Pride Month comes into focus, the overarching message from these voices is clear: allyship must extend beyond the hashtag. It demands consistent action, uncomfortable conversations, and a genuine commitment to creating safe and inclusive spaces every single day of the year. Manish hopes for a better year. He says, "Let’s move toward a Pride year—one where queer art and queer people are seen, supported, and celebrated every day." Sonica Aron concludes by emphasising that "Pride isn’t a campaign. It’s a commitment. And allyship isn’t about you—it’s about who you're standing beside and how your actions make their everyday life just a little bit easier."
12 June,2025 03:45 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalBrian Wilson, the Beach Boys co-founder who masterminded the group's wild popularity and soundtracked the California Dream, has died, his family announced Wednesday. He was 82. The statement on Instagram did not give a cause. Wilson was placed under a legal conservatorship last year due to a "major neurocognitive disorder." "We are at a loss for words right now," said his family. "We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world." The pop visionary crafted hits whose success rivaled The Beatles throughout the 1960s, a seemingly inexhaustible string of feel-good tracks including "Surfin' USA," "I Get Around," "Fun, Fun, Fun" and "Surfer Girl" that made the Beach Boys into America's biggest selling band. Wilson didn't surf, but his prodigious pen and genius ear allowed him to fashion the boundary-pushing soundscape of beachside paradise. His lush productions were revered among his peers, with even Bob Dylan once telling Newsweek: "That ear -- I mean, Jesus, he's got to will that to the Smithsonian!" Dylan also paid tribute to Wilson on Wednesday, posting on X "about all the years I've been listening to him and admiring his genius. Rest in peace dear Brian." After five years of extraordinary songwriting, in which he produced 200 odes to sun, surfing and suntanned girls, Wilson sank into a deep, drug-fueled depression for decades. He would emerge 35 years later to complete the Beach Boys' unfinished album, "Smile" -- widely regarded as his masterpiece. 'Surfin' USA'John Lennon said he considered "Pet Sounds" (1966) to be one of the best albums of all time, while Paul McCartney said Wilson was a "genius" -- who reduced him to tears with one song from the album, "God Only Knows," which Wilson wrote in 45 minutes. Its melancholic depths hinted at Wilson's own painful secret. Born on June 20, 1942 in a Los Angeles suburb, Wilson found music as a haven of safety and joy after an upbringing in which he suffered abuse from his domineering father, who would go on to manage the group. Music was his protection, and The Beach Boys was a family affair: he formed the band with his two brothers Dennis and Carl, his cousin Mike Love and neighbor Al Jardine. Wilson did all the songwriting, arranging and sang and played bass guitar; his bandmates just had to sing in harmony. Their first song "Surfin," in 1961, was a loose prototype for the unique sound that would become their signature, a fusion of the rock styles of Chuck Berry and Little Richard with the preppy vocal harmonies of "The Four Freshmen." By late 1962, there was hardly a teen who did not know them thanks to the eternal ode to youthful nonchalance, "Surfin' USA." Lost youthBut Wilson was ill at ease on stage and did not like recording studios. In 1964 he had a panic attack on a plane to France, after which he stopped touring. He was deaf in his right ear and his mouth sagged when he sang -- the result of the many beatings he received from his father. "It was tough. My dad was quite the slave driver," Wilson told Rolling Stone magazine in 2018. "He made us mow the lawn and when we were done, he'd say, 'Mow it again.' The Beach Boys' early songs spoke of simple joys and innocence. But Wilson's writing became darker as he began to eulogize lost youth. He channeled the group towards the more psychedelic rock central to the hippie culture taking hold in California. In 1966 he brought out "Good Vibrations," a song recorded in four different studios that consumed over 90 hours of tape and included multiple keys, textures, moods and instrumentations. The single topped the charts and sold one million copies in the United States, but Wilson was at the brink. In 1967, his mental health deteriorated, worn down by his enormous workload and his wild consumption of drugs. He abandoned "Smile," planted his grand piano in a sandbox, and took vast quantities of LSD and acid. Eventually diagnosed as schizophrenic, Wilson began hearing voices and thought the famed "Wall of Sound" producer Phil Spector was spying on him and stealing his work. The group eventually parted ways. 'Gentlest revolutionary'The troubled artist had long stints of rehab and relapses as well as legal issues including a lengthy, eyebrow-raising relationship with a controlling psychotherapist who was eventually blocked by a court order from contact with Wilson. The artist credits his marriage to former model Melinda Ledbetter as helping him to rebuild his life. He revived and finished "Smile," releasing it in 2004. His brother Dennis drowned in 1983, while Carl died of cancer in 1998. Last year Wilson's family successfully pursued a legal conservatorship following the death of Melinda, with his longtime manager and publicist being put in charge of his affairs. Wilson's seven children were consulted by the conservators regarding major health decisions as a stipulation of the agreement. The musician's many accolades included a Kennedy Center Honor in 2007, when that committee dubbed him "rock and roll's gentlest revolutionary." "There is real humanity in his body of work," they said, "vulnerable and sincere, authentic and unmistakably American."
12 June,2025 01:01 PM IST | Austin (USA) | AFPOn the occasion of Kabir Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to the mystic poet and saint, saying his lifelong dedication was towards social harmony, and even today, he has a deep impact on the Indian psyche. The revered 15th-century saint and poet, known for his profound couplets and strong message of equality, continues to inspire generations with his timeless teachings. In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wrote, "My heartfelt tribute to Sant Kabir Das Ji on his birth anniversary, who was dedicated to social harmony throughout his life. While there is simplicity of words in his couplets, there is also depth of emotions. That is why even today he has a deep impact on the Indian psyche. His contribution in removing the evils prevalent in the society will always be remembered with reverence." सामाजिक समरसता के प्रति आजीवन समर्पित रहे संत कबीरदास जी को उनकी जयंती पर मेरा कोटि-कोटि नमन। उनके दोहों में जहां शब्दों की सरलता है, वहीं भावों की प्रगाढ़ता भी है। इसलिए आज भी भारतीय जनमानस पर उनका गहरा प्रभाव है। समाज में फैली कुरीतियों को दूर करने में उनके योगदान को हमेशा… pic.twitter.com/5d7ArARMHH — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 11, 2025 The Prime Minister also posted a video message, where he reflected on the enduring relevance of Sant Kabir's teachings. "Kabir Das Ji has worked strongly on social construction, he was way ahead of his time, that time when the world was struggling, Sant Kabir Das gave the message of peace and unity," PM Modi said. He quoted one of Kabir’s most iconic verses: "Jaati na pucho sadhu ki, puch lijiye gyaan," which translates to "Do not ask the caste of a saint, ask about their knowledge". PM Modi highlighted Kabir Das’ enduring philosophy of inclusivity and unity, emphasising that he encouraged people to transcend caste and religious divisions. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari also paid tribute to Kabir Das, posting on X. "Tributes to the great saint poet Sant Kabir Das Ji on his birth anniversary. Heartiest wishes on Kabir Jayanti," he wrote in a post. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid homage to the saint, writing, "A symbol of harmony, devotion and social awakening, crores of salutations to the great Saint Kabir Das Ji on his birth anniversary! The couplets written by him are even today showing the path of truth, compassion and equality to society." J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha also paid homage to the saint. "Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Sant Kabir Das Ji Jayanti. Revered by all sections of society, Sant Kabir ji's compositions have been a source of wisdom & inspiration to humanity. Let's rededicate ourselves to serve people with dedication & build a just, humane society." Kabir Jayanti, observed to mark the birth of one of India's most influential saint-poets, is celebrated across the country, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, where he spent much of his life. His teachings, centred on love, unity, and spiritual awakening, continue to resonate deeply in India’s socio-cultural and spiritual landscape. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
11 June,2025 02:09 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSLakhs of devotees, including Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other dignitaries, gathered here on Wednesday to witness Lord Jagannath's ceremonial bathing rituals, held in an open pandal on the premises of the 12th-century temple. On the occasion, three deities - Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra - were brought to the 'Snana Mandap' (bathing altar) with ceremonial 'pahandi' (procession), officials of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) said. The deities are bathed on the 'Snana Mandap' (bathing altar), the elevated pedestal facing the Grand Road where devotees get the opportunity to witness the bathing rituals, they said. "Shree Sudarshan was first brought out of the shrine and taken to the bathing altar at 5.45 am. After that, idols of Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Lord Jagannath were taken to the bathing altar," an official said. The 'Pahandi ritual' was completed by 8.55 am, he said. Accompanied by Puri MP Sambit Patra, the chief minister entered the temple through the 'Uttara Dwara' (northern gate) and witnessed the morning prayers and the ceremonial procession of the deities, another official said. The festival, known as Deva Snana Purnima, takes place on the full moon day in the month of Jyestha, and this is the first occasion in a year when the wooden idols are brought out of the sanctum sanctorum in a procession and placed on the 'Snana Mandap' for the bathing rituals. It is also considered the birthday of Lord Jagannath. Amid chanting of Vedic mantra, altogether 108 pitchers of 'sacred water' from the 'Sunakua' (golden well), located on the temple premises, will be poured on the idols around 12.20 pm on Wednesday, another official said. Soon after Puri titular king Gajapati Maharaj Dibyasingha Deb would perform ceremonial sweeping of the 'Snana Mandap' around 3.30 pm, the deities will be adorned with 'Gaja Vesha' (attire of elephant God), he said. 'Sahan Mela' or public darshan will be allowed from 7.30 pm, the temple calendar said. The deities will be taken to the 12th-century shrine and remain in 'Anasara Ghar' (isolation room) for 14 days as they fall ill after having the bath. The temple 'Baidya' (physician) would treat them with herbal medicines, and public 'darshan' of the deities will remain closed till 'Nabajouban darshan' till June 26, a day prior to the annual Rath Yatra on June 27. On the occasion, security has been tightened in Puri with deployment of 70 platoons (1 platoon comprises 30 personnel) of force and 450 officers, said SP Vinit Agarwal. "We expect a congregation of lakhs of devotees on the day and have made elaborate arrangements for crowd management, traffic regulation and ground control. The forces are deployed inside and outside the temple and at the seaside," the SP said. The SP said that barricades have been erected to manage the smooth movement of devotees during the ceremonial bathing of the deities. "For the first time, the police are using the AI-based surveillance cameras, linked to a new integrated control room, for real-time monitoring," he added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
11 June,2025 01:39 PM IST | Puri | PTIEnglish singer songwriter Michael David Rosenberg, popularly known by his stage name, Passenger, is all set to perform in India later this year in November. After Coldplay, Ed Sheeran and Guns N’ Roses earlier this year, it is going to be a treat for Indian music concert lovers, who will not only get to witness the Spanish singer later this year but even the English singer, who shot to fame with ‘Let Her Go’. Passenger will embark on a three-city India to perform at DLF CyberHub in Delhi-NCR on November 19, followed by Phoenix Marketcity in Mumbai on November 21 and Phoenix Marketcity in Bengaluru on November 22, marking his first ever performances in India. Tickets for Passenger’s India Tour go on sale at 10 am IST on June 17 exclusively on BookMyShow. Many have embarked on the journey with Passenger, who shot to global fame with his breakout single, ‘Let Her Go’ from his 2012 album ‘All The Little Lights’. The song not only dominated charts across the world but also in India. It climbed to the number one spot in 19 countries and became the second most searched song of all time on Shazam, with billions of streams worldwide, transforming Rosenberg into an international sensation. Known for his extremely soothing vocals, he has released several other hits such as ‘Simple Song’, ‘Anywhere’, ‘Sword from the Stone’ and ‘Life’s For The Living’, which will definitely be a part of the setlist later this year. Commenting on the tour, Naman Pugalia, chief business officer – Live Events, with the online ticket booking platform, said, “Passenger’s music holds a rare emotional weight, one that is quiet, introspective and deeply resonant. For many fans in India, his songs have been the soundtrack to personal moments, quietly weaving their way into everyday life. Bringing him to India for the very first time across three cities is incredibly special for us at BookMyShow Live. We’ve always believed in curating experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable, and this tour is exactly that: intimate, honest and led entirely by the music.” Rosenberg’s songs are known for their stories of love, loss, hope and humanity to life, transcending borders and reaching millions of fans. With performances that are known for their deep emotional resonance and honest simplicity and a discography of 15 independently released studio albums, Indian music lovers will be able to witness Rosenberg’s intimate songwriting, emotional storytelling and grassroots approach to touring. Over the past year alone, Passenger has performed at some of the world’s most iconic venues, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, The Beacon Theatre in New York City, the Royal Albert Hall in London and two sold-out nights at the prestigious Sydney Opera House, making his India, produced by BookMyShow Live, timely especially when everybody is enjoying music concerts to their fullest.
11 June,2025 11:33 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter a few months of speculating, the rumours have finally turned out to be true. Enrique Iglesias will perform in India in Mumbai on October 30 this year. The multi-Grammy award-winning singer will perform at the MMRDA Grounds in BKC. This concert marks the multi-platinum-selling artist’s highly anticipated return to India after 13 years. Iglesias, celebrated as one of Spain's most prolific musical icons, is expected to deliver an immersive performance through his three-decade plus career. The India concert will be ahead of Iglesias’ tour stopover in Abu Dhabi. Marking the musician's triumphant return since his sold-out three-city tour in 2012, this concert is poised to be a treat for fans who have already witnessed Coldplay and Ed Sheeran this year, along with Guns N' Roses. Deepak Chaudhary, who is the founder and managing director, EVA Live, the company who hosted Bryan Adams in India last year states, "Bringing Enrique Iglesias back to India after 13 years is a truly historic moment. The anticipation among fans has been palpable, and we are overjoyed to facilitate this reunion. With a resurgence of interest in iconic international acts, Iglesias epitomises a timeless allure that bridges generations, and this tour reaffirms our dedication to delivering world-class entertainment while elevating India’s stature on the global touring stage."
10 June,2025 05:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs the Indian monsoon season gets underway, Goa turns into a totally different paradise that most tourists don't know about as they spend the summer in the sunshine state. Monsoon in Goa is known to be a time of fertility, abundance, and joy. The state celebrates its unique cultural roots through festivals that blend Christian, Hindu, and tribal traditions and that is what makes this time of the year absolutely unique for every tourist who loves culture. Sao Joao Festival (June 24)Marking the nativity of St. John the Baptist, the Sao Joao Festival is one of Goa’s most anticipated monsoon celebrations. Young men leap into wells, ponds, and streams—a tradition rooted in joy and abundance. Locals don vibrant copels (floral wreaths), sing traditional songs, and parade colorful floats, transforming the villages into buzzing hubs of merriment. For visitors, it offers a rare window into Goa’s deep-rooted faith and sense of community. Sangodd Festival (June 29)Celebrated by the fishing communities, Sangodd in Assolna marks the feast of Saints Peter and Paul and heralds the start of the traditional rampon fishing season. Held on rivers and backwaters, canoes are ingeniously lashed together to create floating stages, adorned with coconut palms, flowers, and church-inspired motifs. These vibrant platforms become the setting for folk dances, musical skits, and community prayers—a true celebration of Goa’s maritime heritage. Chikhal Kalo FestivalIn Marcel, Ponda, tradition takes a playful turn with Chikhal Kalo, popularly known as the Mud Festival. This unique celebration near the Devki Krishna Temple involves participants joyfully rolling in mud while playing traditional village games. The revelry, rooted in tales of Krishna's childhood, is both a cultural spectacle and a communal detox, inviting everyone to shed inhibitions and embrace earthiness. Touxeachem FestHeld at the St. Anne’s Church in Talaulim, Touxeachem Fest—literally “the Cucumber Festival”—is a thanksgiving celebration where devotees offer cucumbers to Our Lady of Miracles. The ritual, reflecting the season’s first harvest, embodies a deep reverence for nature and fertility. The offered cucumbers are later shared with the community, reinforcing Goa’s agrarian roots and its tradition of shared bounty. Bonderam Festival (August)On Divar Island, the monsoon reaches its crescendo with the Bonderam Festival—a riot of colors, flags, floats, and friendly rivalry. Inspired by a colonial-era land dispute resolution method, today it’s a spirited event with music, food, and mock battles between village wards. Tourists and locals throng to witness this spectacle, which stands as a proud reminder of Goa’s enduring village traditions.
10 June,2025 04:21 PM IST | Panaji | mid-day online correspondentProlific British thriller writer Frederick Forsyth, who instantly became a global bestselling author when his book "The Day of the Jackal" was published in 1971, died on Monday aged 86, his literary agents Curtis Brown said. Forsyth famously penned his most famous work about a fictional assassination attempt on French president Charles de Gaulle by right-wing extremists in just 35 days after falling on hard times. "The Jackal" went on to be made into a hit film starring Edward Fox as the assassin. A Netflix remake last year with Eddie Redmayne in the lead role was released last year. "We mourn the passing of one of the world's greatest thriller writers," his agent Jonathan Lloyd said. Forsyth died at home surrounded by his family following a brief illness, according to Curtis Brown. The former journalist and pilot wrote over 25 books including "The Odessa File" (1972) and "The Dogs of War" (1974) and sold over 75 million copies worldwide. Many of his novels were also turned into films. "Only a few weeks ago I sat with him as we watched a new and moving documentary of his life ... and was reminded of an extraordinary life, well lived," said Lloyd. "After serving as one of the youngest ever RAF pilots, he turned to journalism, using his gift for languages in German, French and Russian to become a foreign correspondent in Biafra (in Nigeria)," he said. 'Spectacular luck' -"Appalled at what he saw and using his experience during a stint as a secret service agent, he wrote his first and perhaps most famous novel, 'The Day Of The Jackal'," he added. A sequel to "The Odessa File", entitled "Revenge Of Odessa", on which he worked with thriller writer Tony Kent, is due to be published in August, his publisher Bill Scott-Kerr said. "His journalistic background brought a rigour and a metronomic efficiency to his working practice and his nose for and understanding of a great story kept his novels both thrillingly contemporary and fresh," Scott-Kerr added. Forsyth attributed much of his success to "luck", recalling how a bullet narrowly missed him while he was covering the bloody Biafra civil war between 1967 and 1970. "I have had the most spectacular luck all through my life," he told The Times last November in an interview. "Right place, right time, right person, right contact, right promotion -- and even just turning my head away when that bullet went past," he said. Asked why he had decided to give up writing -- although he later went back to it -- he told AFP in 2016 he'd "run out of things to say". "I can't just sit at home and do a nice little romance from within my study, I have to go out and check out places like Modagishu, Guinea Bissau, both hellholes in different ways," he said. Forsyth had two sons by his first wife. His second wife, Sandy, died last year. Conservative MP David Davis paid tribute to his friend as a "fabulous wordsmith". He told Sky News that Forsyth "was a great believer in the old values -– he believed in honour and patriotism and courage and directness and straightforwardness, and a big defender of our armed forces".
10 June,2025 09:52 AM IST | London | AFPGiven the significant role that fathers play in nurturing their children’s lives with love, support and guidance, they deserve appreciation every day. However, Father’s Day is a special occasion that serves as a gentle reminder to acknowledge and celebrate their presence, and show gratitude for their contributions in our lives. Every year, Father's Day is observed on the third Sunday of June. This year, it will be celebrated on June 15. On this day, people usually plan surprises for their dads and show appreciation through personalised gifts, heartfelt gestures and special activities. Still haven’t figured out how to celebrate Father’s Day and make your dad feel special? Here are five ideas to get you started: 1. Write a poem, song or make a gift If your dad isn’t very expressive and the bond you both share isn’t that of frequent expressions of love but that of quiet support and care, surprise him with a heartfelt tribute that embodies your emotions and gratitude for him. You could write a poem or song, or prepare a handcrafted gift. 2. Attend a fitness class together Is your dad a fitness enthusiast? Or do you want him to embark on a fitness journey for improved health and well-being? Celebrate Father’s Day by attending a yoga or Zumba class. If that doesn’t sound interesting, you can also run a marathon or go for a morning jog together to mark a healthy beginning of the special day. 3. Treat him to some good food Take him out to his favourite café or restaurant for dinner. It may sound like the most obvious way to celebrate but it is also a timeless option. You could also cook at home and have a family dinner that celebrates him. 4. Plan a movie marathon Are you and your dad cinema enthusiasts? What better way to observe the occasion than celebrating your shared love for a movie/actor/song over popcorn? You can plan a movie marathon at home or take your dad to watch a movie he likes in the theatre. 5. Go on a trip together Travel together, or gift him a trip. This could be a refreshing escape and help him take time off from the daily hustle.
09 June,2025 09:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFather’s Day is a special occasion observed globally to acknowledge and appreciate the role of a father and/or father figures in an individual’s life. Observed annually in June, this day serves as a heartfelt reminder to honour their contributions, love, guidance and support. Ahead of this special observance that celebrates the strength and determination of fathers, here’s everything you need to know. Father’s Day 2025: Date In most countries around the world, including India, Father’s Day isn’t observed on a fixed date, but on the third Sunday of June. This year, the occasion will be celebrated on June 15. Father’s Day 2025: History and significance Father’s Day as a special occasion was reportedly first observed in June 1910 in Spokane, Washington. Late Sonora Smart Dodd, whose father raised her and her five siblings as a single parent after the death of their mother, is credited as the founder of this day. She got the idea while listening to a sermon on Mother’s Day in 1909, which led her to rally for a special day for fathers as well. In 1972, it became a national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed a legislation designating the third Sunday of June as Father’s Day. From the United States, the phenomenon gradually reached other countries and Father’s Day became a global observance. While fathers deserve appreciation every day, this special occasion serves as a gentle reminder to celebrate their presence and unwavering strength and support, and calls for initiative to make them feel extra special. Also Read: Father's Day 2025: Beat the rainy weather with these films revolving around dads Father’s Day 2025: Celebrations around the world Across the world, Father’s Day is generally celebrated with family gatherings, gift-giving and spending time with dad. People often plan surprises for their fathers and express gratitude through heartfelt and personalised gifts, and meaningful gestures. The main intention is to make fathers feel special and valued for the role they play in our lives.
09 June,2025 08:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEvery year, people around the world observe Pride Month in June to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and their contributions to society. While it also a time to raise awareness about their struggles to equal rights in society, there is no better way to be an ally than learn more about their lives. While there are many different mediums through which one can do that today, books are the easiest medium to explore their lives in more ways than one. Here are some books by Westland Books to get you started: Queeristan: LGBTQ Inclusion in the Indian Workplace by Parmesh ShahaniThe reading down of Section 377 by the Supreme Court in 2018 has led to a fundamental shift in the rights of India’s LGBTQ citizens and necessitated policy changes across the board—not least in the conservative world of Indian business. In this path-breaking and genre-defying book, Parmesh Shahani—vice president at Godrej Industries Ltd—draws from his decade-long journey in the corporate world as an out and proud gay man, to make a cogent case for LGBTQ inclusion and lay down a step-by-step guide to reshaping office culture in India. He talks to inclusion champions and business leaders about how they worked towards change; traces the benefits reaped by industry giants like Godrej, Tata Steel, IBM, Wipro, the Lalit group of hotels and many others who have tapped into the power of diversity; and shares the stories of employees whose lives were revolutionised by LGBTQ-friendly workspaces. In this affecting memoir-cum-manifesto, Shahani animates the data and strategy with intimate stories of love and family. It has no name by Payal Dhar‘Are you a boy or a girl?’ Sami should be used to this question, but it still turns her insides to ice. And there will be a lot more for her to face when Ma and she move back to Chandnisarai, a place where she was once viciously bullied. But the town wrong-foots her from the get-go. Her new school doesn’t insist on skirts and, after some initial curiosity, her classmates are indifferent to her severe buzzcut. Sami finds refuge in the cricket club by day and discovers a whole new world of streaming television by night. She even makes friends: the level-headed Laila, the fun-loving Murad, the mysterious Vidhi, and—online—the nameless Gaybe. As Sami starts to be lulled into a sense of ease, however, old secrets and forgotten memories resurface. She must make a choice, but in doing so, will she lose the friendships that are her lifelines?An irresistible coming-of-age story of a gay teen in modern India. Radiant Fugitives: A Novel by Nawaaz Ahmed A dazzling, operatic debut novel following three generations of a Muslim Indian family confronted with a nation on the brink of change.Working as a consultant for Kamala Harris’s attorney general campaign in Obama-era San Francisco, Seema has constructed a successful life for herself in the West, despite still struggling with her father’s long-ago decision to exile her from the family after she came out as lesbian. Now, nine months pregnant and estranged from the Black father of her unborn son, Seema seeks solace in the company of those she once thought lost to her: her ailing mother, Nafeesa, travelling alone to California from Chennai, and her devoutly religious sister, Tahera, a doctor living in Texas with her husband and children.But instead of a joyful reconciliation anticipating the birth of a child, the events of this fateful week unearth years of betrayal, misunderstanding, and complicated layers of love—a tapestry of emotions as riveting and disparate as the era itself.Told from the point of view of Seema’s child at the moment of his birth, and infused with the poetry of Wordsworth and Keats and verses from the Quran, Radiant Fugitives is a moving tale of a family and a country grappling with acceptance, forgiveness, and enduring love. Chikkamma Tours (Pvt.) Ltd: A Bibliomystery by UnmanaA fat lesbian partners with her boss she is crushing on to investigate the murder of a bookstore owner in Bengaluru. When the owner of the bookshop above Chikkamma Tours gets stabbed to death in the building, grumpy, book-obsessed, wise-cracking, whisky-drinking Nilima jumps at the opportunity to play amateur detective. What's more, it seems like the perfect excuse to get close to her alluring boss Shwetha. But to successfully investigate the murder, Nilima also needs to learn to work with her annoying colleague Poorna and with Inspector Sharmila Lamani, who is in a relationship with Nilima's ex-girlfriend. Braving the incessant rain, a local gangster and sundry other shady characters, as well as the police, who seem intent on charging an innocent man, Nilima, Shwetha and Poorna are soon hot on the trail of the murderer. Night in Delhi by Ranbir SidhuThere are no good people here. And perhaps no truly evil ones. A small-time thief and hustler and his lover and pimp, who is a rising star in Delhi's music scene. A lost American and acolyte of a so-called guru. A young woman who hopes to save herself by becoming a boss in one of India's new mafias. And everyone floating in a world of shades of grey. No Place to Call My Own by Alina GufranAn intimate, arresting portrait of millennial angst in a mercurial, volatile world. Feeling trapped in a society that’s quick to undermine her—constantly making assumptions about her religion, sexuality, ambition, worth—Sophia plunges headlong into a journey of questionable decisions through her twenties. We follow her through cities and towns as she tries to make sense of the old while confronting the new. But each move trails chaos in its wake.Restless and acerbic, she struggles to come to terms with the disintegration of her parents’ marriage, eerily mirrored in the political turmoil of twenty-first-century India. And crucial to Sophia’s story—which unfolds against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement, the 2020 Delhi riots and a global pandemic—is her complex, thorny friendship with Medha, a queer artist with travails of her own.How does one even begin to fit in when apathy becomes a mode of survival? How is it possible to truly belong when one feels estranged from oneself? Sophia’s journey is not just her own but that of any young woman who finds herself caught ‘in between’—unable to back down and refusing to conform—and who doesn’t quite feel rooted to one place or identity.Deviants: The Queer Family Chronicles by Santanu BhattacharyaFrom the critically acclaimed author of One Small Voice a bold, electrifying story of a family in which three generations of gay men in India fight for love and dignity against the currents of their times. A bold, electrifying story of a family in which three generations of gay men in India fight for love and dignity against the currents of their times. Vivaan, a teenager in India’s silicon plateau, has discovered love on his smartphone. Intoxicating, boundary-breaking love. His parents know he is gay, and their support is something Vivaan can count on, but they don’t know what exactly their son gets up to in the online world.For his uncle, born thirty years earlier, things were very different. Mambro’s life changed forever when he fell for a male classmate at a time when, and in a country where, the persecution of gay people was rife under a colonial-era law criminalising homosexuality. And before Mambro came his uncle Sukumar, a young man hopelessly in love with another young man, but forced by social taboos to keep their relationship a secret at all costs. Sukumar would never live the life he yearned for, but his story would ignite and inspire his nephew and grand-nephew after him. Atypical: Five Strategy Rules for a New World by Prateek RajA reflection on the current mode of capitalism and a call to action to rethink everything - leadership, strategy, innovation and even progress itself. What if the most valuable insights into your company’s future aren’t buried in your big data or shared by industry experts—but voiced quietly at the edges, by the very people you’ve been ignoring? In Atypical: Five Strategy Rules for a New World, UCL and IIMB professor Prateek Raj challenges the status quo by showing how the world’s most innovative organisations learn from voices at the fringes—be they marginalised communities, unexpected collaborators or frontline workers.
09 June,2025 03:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
