Mangaluru, July 19: A four-day free software orientation programme organized by the Bearys Institute of Technology and the Free Software Movement Karnataka (FSMK) to create awareness on free software, its need, importance and usage was inaugurated at the BIT here on Thursday. The programme would continue till July 22.

Presently more companies in the world have been adopting free software to have more flexibility to meet their demands. The main objective of the programme was to mobilize thoughts, create awareness of tools for making a positive impact on the world using digital medium and spread knowledge for the benefit of the humanity. Along with this, the programme was also aimed at spreading philosophy of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) and its key role in bringing positive thought to the world, the organizers said.

On the first day, various sessions were held by Free Software Movement in India general secretary Kiran Chandra, Abhinava of FSFTN, Arun Isaac and Rameseshan of FSMK, Rizma of FSMK and alumni of BIT, industry professionals, software enthusiasts are participating in the programme. More than 100 delegates from various engineering colleges across the state are participating in the programme.

Senior advisor Dr Raikar SK, BIT principal Dr Antony AJ, Dean (Academics) Dr Mahabaleshwarappa, BIT polytechnic principal Dr Azeez Mustafa, department heads and faculty were present during the inaugural programme.



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Mumbai: Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav recently found himself in a controversy following a video he shared on Diwali. In the video, Yadav urged people not to burst firecrackers, citing concerns over noise and air pollution, as well as the distress caused to animals. However, this message sparked backlash on social media, where users criticised him, citing his past endorsement of non-vegetarian brands. Following the criticism, Yadav deleted the video and issued a public apology in a new post, expressing regret for any offence caused.

In his apology, Yadav wished everyone a happy Diwali and said, "Two days ago, I shared a video on my social media, which I have now deleted. I sincerely apologise if it hurt anyone's feelings. Celebrate Diwali joyfully, stay healthy, and be happy."

After Yadav’s apology, several people expressed disappointment, questioning whether environmental awareness is being unfairly targeted. Some users remarked on the trend of trolling those promoting environmental responsibility, while others criticised Yadav's decision to apologise, calling it an unwarranted concession to trolls. Noted journalist Dr. Mukesh Kumar commented on the situation, stating that Yadav should have stood by his message. Kumar argued that voices promoting positive change should not be silenced by what he termed as the influence of "uneducated masses manipulated by political agendas."

Amid the controversy, Rajpal Yadav returns to the big screen as Chhote Pandit in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, starring Kartik Aaryan. In an interview, Yadav mentioned that he would be portraying the character in a fresh style, adding a new dimension to the familiar role.