Udupi: Girish Karnad’s play cancelled for supporting beef consumption

May 2, 2015

Udupi, May 2: The last-minute cancellation of staging of the internationally acclaimed Indian thinker and writer Girish Karnad’s play ‘Nagamandala’ at Parkala near here following has led to a controversy.

The play, which was to be staged by Rangabhumi troupe during the Brahmakalashotsava ceremony of Sri Narasimha Temple was cancelled after Mr. Karnad issued a statement in favour of beef consumption.

Raviraj H.P., joint secretary of Rangabhumi, said that the event had been fixed two months ago. But on April 25, he got a call from the temple authorities stating that the play could not be allowed as “some volunteers and organisations” had opposed it because of Mr. Karnad’s statement.

The troupe members, by then, had prepared for the play and had spent about Rs. 10,000. But the temple authorities suggested that the troupe stage another play. “We decided to stick to Nagamandala. This is an injustice to artistes and the troupe. What has Mr. Karnad’s statement got to do with the play?” he said.

Ramesh Salavankar, managing trustee of the temple,said, “We are not opposed to Mr. Karnad or his play. But we did not like the statement he made. We do not mean to insult the artistes or the play.”

Writer Kathyayini Kunjibettu, who translated the play into Tulu, said it should not have been cancelled. Every writer was entitled to his/her personal beliefs.

Meanwhile, organisations such as Samskara Bharati and Dharma Rakshana Vedike commended temple authorities for cancelling the play.

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Mangaluru NRI returning from Saudi Arabia arrested over Instagram post

News Network

December 15,2025

Mangaluru police have arrested a 27-year-old NRI on his return from Saudi Arabia in connection with an Instagram post allegedly containing derogatory and provocative remarks about the Hindu religion, officials said on Monday.

The accused, Abdul Khader Nehad, a resident of Ulaibettu in Mangaluru, was working in Saudi Arabia when the post was uploaded, police said.

A suo motu case was registered at the Bajpe police station on October 11 after an allegedly offensive post circulated from the Instagram account ‘team_sdpi_2025’. Police said the content was flagged for being provocative and derogatory in nature.

During the investigation, technical analysis traced the Instagram post to Nehad, who was residing abroad at the time, a senior police officer said. Based on these findings, a Look Out Circular (LOC) was issued against him.

On December 14, Nehad arrived from Saudi Arabia at Calicut International Airport in Kerala, where he was taken into custody on arrival. Police said further investigation is underway.

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SMR Public School’s ‘EXCELLENTIA’ highlights academic excellence and holistic growth

News Network

December 16,2025

Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

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