Ian Chappel Announces Retirement from Journalism after Five Decades
Former Australia captain Ian Chappell drew curtains on his five-decade-old journalistic career, having written his final column in ESPNcricinfo on February 23, 2025. He reckoned it was the right time to move away from his second innings and put down the pen and pack away the computer.
He last pulled on the pads in 1980, but following his retirement from professional cricket he established himself as one of the sport's most iconic broadcasters and writers.
Shaktikanta Das Appointed Principal Secretary-2 to PM Modi
Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Shaktikanta Das was appointed as "Principal Secretary-2" to the Prime Minister. This is the first time the PM has two principal secretaries, with P. K. Mishra occupying one of the positions since 2019.
PK Mishra (76) was the additional principal secretary to the Prime Minister in the first Narendra Modi government when Nripendra Misra was the principal secretary.
Feb 21, 2025
Conservationist Purnima Devi Barman Makes It to Times' Women Of The Year List
An Indian biologist and wildlife conservationist was named by Time Magazine among this year's 'Women of the Year' in a list that honours "extraordinary leaders" working toward a better, more equal world.
Purnima Devi Barman is the only Indian woman on Time's Women of the Year 2025 list.
The list of 13 women also includes actor Nicole Kidman and Gisele Pelicot of France who was drugged by her husband and who became a global icon in the campaign against sexual violence.
Feb 19, 2025
Thiruvalluvar Statue Inaugurated in the Philippines
Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, Harsh Kumar Jain, unveiled a statue of renowned Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar at Gullas College of Medicine (GCM) in Cebu on February 17, 2025. The unveiling ceremony was part of the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines.
The event witnessed the participation of key dignitaries, including former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, senior officials, diplomats, and members of the Indian diaspora.
Feb 17, 2025
C. Krishnaveni, Pioneer of Telugu Cinema, Dies at 102
C. Krishnaveni, the veteran Telugu actor and producer, passed away at the age of 102 in Hyderabad on Sunday due to age-related issues. She is remembered for her significant contributions to the Telugu film industry, particularly for introducing legendary figures like NT Rama Rao (NTR) and Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao to the screen. Krishnaveni's legacy as a multifaceted talent includes her work as an actor, singer, and producer. Below are key highlights of her life and career.
Renowned Bengali vocalist, composer, and lyricist Pratul Mukhopadhyay breathed his last at the age of 83. Mukhopadhyay, known for his soulful and revolutionary songs, played an integral role in shaping the musical landscape of Bengal. His timeless compositions like Ami Banglar Gaan Gai and Dinga Bhasao Re became synonymous with the cultural identity of West Bengal.
His demise marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers.
Renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Prabhakar Karekar passed away at the age of 80.
Born in Goa, Karekar was widely respected for his contributions to Hindustani classical music and was known for devotional renditions like Bolava Vithal Pahava Vithal and Vakratund Mahakay. He trained under legendary gurus and received several prestigious awards, including the Tansen Samman, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and Gomant Vibhushan Award.
His death was condoled by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who praised his role in preserving and expanding classical music in Goa.