Washington: The California State Assembly in the US has recognised late Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput for his efforts to promote India's rich culture and heritage and his immense contributions to Indian cinema.

Rajput, 34, was found hanging from the ceiling of his apartment in suburban Bandra in Mumbai on June 14. The Mumbai police has been probing the alleged suicide following an accidental death report complaint lodged by Bandra police.

The California State Assembly in a certificate of recognition noted Rajput's "immense contributions to Bollywood cinema" and appreciated his "philanthropic community work as well as his efforts to promote India's rich culture and heritage".

The actor's sister Shweta Singh Kirti who lives in the US received the certificate on Rajput's behalf. The actor had often expressed his desire to work in Hollywood. Indian community leader Ajay Bhutoria presented the recognition from the California State Assembly to Suhant's family.

The recognition of the Bollywood star was led by California Assemblyman Kansen Chu.

It's a great privilege for me to accept this honour from California State Assembly, on behalf of my brother, in remembrance and appreciation of his philanthropic work and contributions to Indian cinema," Shweta told PTI on Saturday.

"I thank the Assembly members and the Indian-American community for their continuous support in these hours of crisis," she said.

Her husband Vishal Kirti said the California State Assembly has recognised Rajput's contributions to Indian cinema and the community on the auspicious occasion of India's Independence Day.

Millions of Indian Americans are watching the proceedings of the ongoing campaign for getting #JusticeForSushantSinghRajput, Rajput's brother-in-law Vishal said. "Indian-Americans are looking up to the Indian government to get Sushant Singh Rajput death case an unbiased investigation," he said.

On July 25, Rajput's 74-year-old father K K Singh, who lives in Bihar, filed a complaint with police in Patna against his son's rumoured girlfriend and actress Rhea Chakraborty and her family members accusing them of cheating and abetting his son's suicide.

The CBI recently took over investigation into the case and re-registered the Patna police FIR. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is also questioning Chakraborty, her family members and others in connection with a money laundering case linked to the death of the actor.




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New Delhi (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the people of Maharashtra and Goa on the occasion of Gudi Padwa and said it symbolises the triumph of righteousness over adversity.

In identical letters to the people of the two western states, Modi said that as India continues its journey towards progress and self-reliance, the essence of Gudi Padwa becomes even more relevant.

"On the auspicious occasion of Gudi Padwa, I extend my heartfelt greetings to you and your family. This sacred festival, marking the beginning of the New Year, is a time of renewed hope and the promise of new beginnings," he said.

The prime minister said the 'gudi' (a symbolic flag hoisted at the entrance of households) stands as a symbol of victory, prosperity and optimism.

Gudi Padwa holds deep cultural and historical significance, he said.

"It symbolises the triumph of righteousness over adversity. It is also associated with the onset of spring, the season of rejuvenation," he added.

"Today, as India continues its journey towards progress and self-reliance, the essence of Gudi Padwa becomes even more relevant," Modi said.

The values Gudi Padwa embodies are the very values that guide everyone.

"In a rapidly changing world, these traditions anchor us, reminding us of our roots and what we stand for.

"Let us carry forward the spirit of Gudi Padwa throughout the year with renewed determination and a sense of purpose. May this New Year bring happiness, good health and prosperity to all," the PM said.