Mangaluru Mosque opens doors to flood victims amid heavy rainfall
Mangaluru: Following a red alert issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for Dakshina Kannada district for the next 24 hours, Badriya Juma Masjid in Kokkada, Belthangady taluk, has decided to open its doors round the clock to assist those affected by the floods.
Masjid President Hyder MS emphasised that extending support in difficult times is a humanitarian act. “We do not look at caste, creed and religion, while in crisis. We are all humans,” he told the Deccan Herald.
The mosque can accommodate nearly 100 people and has a madrasa that can provide additional shelter. “We are prepared to set up tents if needed,” he added.
A message has been circulated on WhatsApp since Monday, informing people that they can use the facility at the mosque in case of distress.
Hyder pointed out the significant threat posed by the rising water levels of the River Nethravathi, particularly to those living near riverbanks. Residents of Dharmasthala, Nidle, Patrame, Shishila, and Arasinamakki can contact the mosque members for assistance, the mosque president shared.
Expressing their commitment to communal harmony, Hyder recalled that the mosque had extended help during the COVID-19 pandemic as well. He also noted that people from various castes and religions participated in the mosque’s renovation three years ago.
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Veteran Tamil film producer Rajan dies after jumping into Adyar River
Chennai (PTI): Veteran Tamil film producer K Rajan died after jumping into the Adyar River in the city on Sunday, police said.
Police said it appears to be a case of suicide, though the reason for his extreme step was not immediately known.
The 85-year-old film personality asked his driver to stop the car while crossing the Adyar bridge and suddenly got out and jumped into the river, police sources said.
The driver immediately alerted Fire and Rescue Services personnel, who reached the spot, recovered the body, and sent it for post-mortem.
Police have registered a case, and further investigation is underway.
Rajan entered the Tamil film industry as a producer in the early 1980s. Apart from producing films, he also directed a few movies.
He also served as president of a film distributors’ association.
Top leaders of political parties, including the two Dravidian majors—the DMK and AIADMK—expressed shock and grief over his death and conveyed their condolences to the bereaved family.
Former Chief Minister and DMK President M K Stalin said Rajan had always boldly raised his voice for the welfare of small film producers and the overall development of the film industry.
“He had always urged that Tamil films be titled in Tamil,” Stalin said in a statement, adding that Rajan consistently fought for the rights of ordinary workers in the film industry.
AIADMK general secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami said Rajan’s voice was important in securing recognition for small-budget films in the Tamil film industry.
Among others who condoled his death was PMK founder S Ramadoss. Leaders from various parties also expressed their condolences to the bereaved family.
“This is terrible news. Deeply shocked to hear about the demise of our beloved member of the film fraternity, producer K Rajan sir,” actor and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar said in a post on social media platform X.
“He was a very respectful person and someone who never hesitated to call a spade a spade. This is very upsetting. May his soul rest in peace,” she added.
