✍️ 98-year-old literary icon M. Leelavathy keeps writing

Literary critic M. Leelavathy, at the age of 98, has released her new book, Bharathalokam. This work chronicles her journey through the major episodes of the Mahabharata, with the publication date being August 05, 2026. She argues that the epic strongly warns against war while emphasizing the necessity of unconditional love. Leelavathy also critiques the tragic flaw in Bhishma's decision-making within the epic. She is currently working on another book concerning the evolution of caste in Kerala. 📚

🦁 Lion cubs debut at zoo during Onam festival

Lion cubs Simba and Suri, now six-and-a-half months old, are growing out of their playful stage at the Thiruvananthapuram zoo. They were fostered because their mother, Nayla, could not care for them after a difficult labor in January. Initially, the cubs needed intensive care, including hand-feeding and a stay in the zoo hospital. After recovering, they were moved near Nayla to prepare for an open enclosure. Zoo officials hope the cubs will make their public debut during the Onam festival. 🦁

📰 Rights group denied venue for J&K report release

A rights group led by former Home Secretary G.K. Pillai was denied police permission to release its report in Srinagar on August 4, 2026. The Forum for Human Rights in Jammu and Kashmir, which includes Justice Madan B. Lokur, planned to release its annual report on August 7 in Srinagar. This denial forced the cancellation of the scheduled report release function at the SKICC. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti called the administration's action deeply disturbing, suggesting documentation of truth is criminalized. Various J&K parties are planning protests to demand the restoration of autonomous status.

🌧️ Himachal Pradesh facing heavy rain chaos 🌧️

Heavy monsoon rainfall is disrupting daily life across Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday. The State Emergency Operation Centre reported 153 roads blocked, 191 power distribution transformers out, and 58 water supply schemes affected. This Tuesday evening report showed that Mandi district had the most blocked roads with 51. Restoration teams are actively working to clear roads and fix damaged infrastructure in the affected areas. The number of blocked roads slightly improved from 157 reported earlier, but remains high.

🎬 Adipurush writer says no comparisons with Ramayana

Adipurush writer Manoj Muntashir warned against comparing his film with the upcoming Ramayana. He stated that there is no shame in admitting Adipurush was a failed attempt, despite the efforts put in. The massive ₹550 crore Adipurush, starring Prabhas, had its run halted over ₹200 crore short of breaking even. Now, Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is coming, with Ranbir Kapoor as Rama and Yash as Ravana. Ramayana: Part 1 is set for Diwali 2026, while Part 2 is expected in Diwali 2027.

🚨 Man accused of rape lynched by mob in Jharkhand

A 32-year-old man, Md Emroz, died after being fatally beaten by an angry mob in Jharkhand's Chatra district. The accusation was that he kidnapped and raped a schoolgirl, holding her captive for two days. This incident occurred early Tuesday morning after the minor returned home and recounted her ordeal. Eight people have been arrested in connection with the lynching, and authorities have placed the girl under protection. Police are currently investigating the matter and seeking more individuals involved in the violence. 😔

⚡ Budget EV options with sunroof and long range

Several affordable electric vehicles are making waves with features like a sunroof and substantial range. The Tata Tiago EV starts at ₹4.69 lakh with a BaaS plan, while the Tata Punch EV offers up to 421 km range. Other contenders include the MG Comet EV and the Citroen eC3 with varying price points and capacities. These cars provide modern features like touchscreens and advanced safety systems for city and highway rides. Buyers should check the specific range and battery options available for their needs. 🔋

🔋 China rolls out first sodium-ion electric mining truck

The world’s first pure electric mining truck running on sodium-ion batteries was officially delivered on August 4th. This vehicle is a collaboration between Hina Battery and Tonly Heavy Industry at the Tangshan Sanyou mine. It features a 676 kWh battery capacity and can charge from 0% to 100% in 20 to 25 minutes. Sodium-ion cells are great for cold weather and cut down on diesel emissions in mines. The truck will now be used in real operations to gather data for future improvements. 🔋

⚖️ TN arrests resurface amid political drama

The arrest of Udhayanidhi Stalin, DMK youth wing secretary, is being labeled a 'political vendetta' by the DMK. This incident highlights Tamil Nadu's long history of contentious political arrests spanning nearly five decades. Following the DMK government's dismissal on January 31, 1976, M K Stalin and others faced arrests under MISA. Later, Karunanidhi and DMK leaders were arrested in October 1977 over demonstrations against Indira Gandhi. The pattern started in 1996 when the DMK arrested ex-CM J Jayalalithaa over corruption charges.

🌿 Metal-free dyeing boosts textile color fastness

Researchers have developed a novel, metal-free process to enhance the durability of plant-based dyes used in textiles. This advancement was conducted by scientists at the University of Manchester. The new method significantly improves color fastness compared to traditional dyeing techniques. This innovation offers a greener alternative to heavy metal-laden industrial dyeing processes. The research paves the way for more sustainable and vibrant textile manufacturing in the future. 🌿

😴 Sleep helps teens crush school and friendships

Getting adequate sleep can significantly boost how well adolescents perform in school and interact with their peers. Studies conducted by Medical Xpress highlighted the importance of rest for teenage development. The research specifically looked at teens aged 13 to 18, noting positive impacts on various metrics. Better sleep patterns are linked to improved concentration and stronger social skills among the participants. Experts advise teenagers to prioritize consistent sleep schedules moving forward.