Ajith Kumar unfazed by injuries during shoots, says nor did fans tell me to stop

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is questioning Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay in connection with a stampede in Karur that resulted in 41 deaths. The agency's probe focuses on why Vijay continued his speech even as people in the crowd were fainting and why he arrived at the venue seven hours later than scheduled. The CBI is investigating whether the delay was a deliberate move to attract a larger crowd and showcase political strength, a decision that may have contributed to the deadly surge. The transcript details the specific questions being put to Vijay, including his awareness of the crowd's condition from his position on an open vehicle and the inadequate arrangements for a crowd that swelled to nearly 30,000 people. Vijay has reportedly claimed the issue is a 'political conspiracy'.

In a special address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India, highlighting the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations. The Prime Minister noted the significance of the visit, coinciding with the celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations. He stated, 'Close cooperation between countries like India and Germany is important for the entire humanity.' The address covered the robust economic ties, with bilateral trade crossing $50 billion and over 2,000 German companies operating in India. PM Modi also emphasized growing cooperation in technology, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and defence. He recalled the historical people-to-people connections, mentioning figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Swami Vivekananda, and looked forward to strengthening ties in education, mobility, and skills development.

An unidentified speaker announced a significant step in India-Germany relations, confirming that the German Maritime Museum will join the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat. The speaker described this as a 'historic step that connects the maritime history of both countries.' Further cooperation was highlighted in the field of traditional medicine, noting that Gujarat has been working closely with Germany at the Ayurvedic University, with an MOU expected to strengthen this bond. The address also touched upon the broader friendship between the two nations, citing their joint efforts on the global stage in countries like Ghana, Cameroon, and Malawi. The speaker expressed confidence that the discussions would provide new energy and a clear direction for the India-Germany partnership.

BJP leader K. Annamalai has strongly responded to MNS chief Raj Thackeray after being targeted with insults at a Mumbai rally ahead of the BMC polls. After Thackeray called him 'Rasmalai' and revived the 'Hatao Lungi, Bajao Pungi' slogan, Annamalai issued a direct challenge: 'I will come to Mumbai, do what you want'. He asserted that he is not scared of any threats, adding that the Thackerays are in the habit of insulting Tamils and run their 'business' by issuing such threats. Annamalai, who identifies as the 'son of a farmer', stated that he considers earning the anger of the Thackerays a great achievement. The war of words erupted after Annamalai campaigned for BJP councillors in Mumbai, focusing on the city's Tamil-speaking population.