The southwest monsoon has started withdrawing from Odisha, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of thunderstorms, lightning and rainfall in several parts of the state over the next 24 hours.

The withdrawal process began on Thursday, with the southwest monsoon retreating from some areas of Bargarh, Jharsuguda and Sundargarh districts. Weather conditions are favourable for the monsoon to withdraw from additional parts of eastern India over the next three to four days.

According to the weather forecast, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely at one or two places in 13 districts over the next 24 hours. These include Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh.

The remaining districts are likely to experience predominantly dry weather during this period.

Meanwhile, there has been no significant change in the maximum temperature across Odisha. Temperatures in most parts of coastal Odisha and some areas of interior Odisha are around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal, indicating that warm conditions are likely to persist despite the seasonal transition.

The withdrawal of the southwest monsoon marks the beginning of the transition towards the post-monsoon season. However, the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning and rain in several districts means residents should remain alert to changing weather conditions.

The post Southwest Monsoon Withdrawal Begins in Odisha, Thunderstorms Likely in 13 Districts appeared first on Odisha Connect.

A bomb threat email sent to Kolkata Airport on Thursday triggered panic and heightened security measures across the airport premises. The airport administration received a threatening email in the afternoon claiming that explosives had been placed inside the airport complex and threatening to blow up the entire facility.

Security Tightened Across Airport Complex

Following the receipt of the threat email, security arrangements at the airport were immediately strengthened. Security personnel were deployed across the airport complex, while a thorough inspection was launched to verify the claims made in the email.

Officials are investigating the contents of the message and working to determine whether the threat is genuine or a hoax. Security agencies are carrying out necessary checks as part of the airport’s security protocol.

Kolkata Airport Has Received Similar Threats Before

Kolkata Airport has received similar bomb threat emails on several occasions in the past. In previous cases, detailed security checks found no explosives or suspicious objects, and the threats were subsequently determined to be false.

Authorities, however, continue to treat every such threat seriously and conduct comprehensive security assessments to ensure the safety of passengers, airport staff and aircraft.

Previous Threat to Kolkata-Shillong Flight

In February, a bomb threat was reportedly received in connection with an IndiGo flight operating from Kolkata to Shillong, leading to a delay in the flight’s departure.

Security agencies conducted checks after the threat was received, and passengers were evacuated as a precautionary measure. No suspicious object was found during the inspection. The aircraft was subsequently cleared and departed safely.

IndiGo had cooperated with the authorities in accordance with its standard operating procedures.

Security agencies are continuing their assessment of the latest threat at Kolkata Airport. Further details are awaited regarding the nature and credibility of the threat and the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

The post Bomb Threat Email Triggers Security Scare at Kolkata Airport appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar has died at the age of 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa. A medical team was called to his home in the early hours, but he was reportedly unresponsive. Doctors performed CPR for around 45 minutes, but there was no response. He was declared dead at around 5:20 am.

While Nana Patekar was widely admired for his powerful performances, another lesser-known aspect of his personality is now being remembered—his deep passion for cricket.

Nana Patekar Was a Cricket Lover

In a 2015 interview, Nana Patekar had spoken about his childhood connection with cricket. He revealed that he was a good cricketer during his younger days and used to bowl off-spin.

The veteran actor had even said that with just around 10 minutes of practice, he could still bowl well. His comments reflected the lasting passion he had for the sport despite his busy career in cinema.

A Huge Virat Kohli Fan

Nana Patekar was also a passionate admirer of former India captain Virat Kohli. He reportedly followed India-Pakistan cricket matches closely and would remain glued to the television during the games.

His admiration for Kohli became particularly popular after he revealed that when the star batter got out early, he would sometimes lose his appetite. The statement generated considerable attention on social media in January 2025, with several users sharing stories about the actor’s unusual cricket obsession.

ODI Cricket Was His Favourite

Patekar particularly enjoyed watching the One Day International format. His love for cricket remained strong even as he grew older, showing that the sport continued to hold a special place in his life.

Bollywood Mourns the Veteran Actor

Nana Patekar’s death has left the film industry and his fans deeply saddened. While he will be remembered for his remarkable acting career and unforgettable performances, his love for cricket and admiration for Virat Kohli have also become a memorable part of his public persona.

For his fans, the veteran actor’s legacy will extend beyond cinema, encompassing the passion and simplicity with which he followed the sport he loved.

The post Nana Patekar’s Love for Cricket and Virat Kohli Remembered After His Death appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar, whose powerful performances and distinctive dialogue delivery made him a household name, has died at the age of 75 following a cardiac arrest. His remarkable journey from poverty to becoming one of Indian cinema’s most respected actors is being remembered as an inspiring story of determination and hard work.

From Poverty to Bollywood Stardom

Nana Patekar faced severe financial hardships during his childhood. At just 13, he began working to support his family, painting film posters in Mumbai’s Chunabhatti area. Reports say he earned around ₹35 a month and would walk nearly eight kilometres each day to work.

He later entered the world of theatre before making his mark in Bollywood with his intense acting and memorable dialogue delivery.

Estimated ₹80 Crore Net Worth

According to media reports, Nana Patekar’s estimated net worth was around ₹80 crore. He reportedly charged between ₹2 crore and ₹3 crore per film, depending on the role and project.

Apart from acting, his sources of income reportedly included filmmaking, writing, production and real estate investments.

Properties Across Maharashtra and Goa

Despite his wealth, Patekar was known for leading a relatively simple lifestyle. Reports have linked him to several properties, including a 1-BHK apartment in Mumbai’s Andheri, a large farmhouse near Khadakwasla in Pune and a residence on Law College Road in Pune. He also had a house in Goa and ancestral property in Murud.

His Pune farmhouse reportedly covered around 27 acres, where he enjoyed farming and cultivated crops such as wheat and rice.

Philanthropy and Social Work

Patekar was also associated with social initiatives, particularly efforts aimed at supporting farmers. Through the Naam Foundation, he contributed to welfare and relief activities.

His extraordinary journey—from earning ₹35 a month as a teenager to achieving success and wealth in Indian cinema—has left behind a lasting legacy of resilience, talent and social commitment.

The post Nana Patekar: From ₹35 a Month to a Rs 80 Crore Legacy appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Veteran Bollywood and Marathi actor Nana Patekar has died at the age of 75, sending shockwaves across the Indian film industry. The acclaimed actor passed away on Thursday, October 8, after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa.

According to reports, Patekar was found unconscious at his Goa residence in the early hours of Thursday and was rushed to Manipal Hospital. Doctors attempted to revive him for around 45 minutes, but he could not be saved. He was declared dead at around 5:20 am.

Nana Patekar Dies at 75

The sudden demise of Nana Patekar has left Bollywood, Marathi cinema and his vast fan base deeply saddened. Known for his intense performances, distinctive dialogue delivery and powerful screen presence, Patekar remained one of the most respected actors in Indian cinema for nearly five decades.

Manipal Hospital confirmed that the actor was brought in an unresponsive condition and could not be revived despite medical efforts. The cause of death has been reported as cardiac arrest.

A Five-Decade Career in Indian Cinema

Born Vishwanath Patekar, Nana Patekar began his film journey with the 1978 film Gaman. He went on to build an illustrious career across Hindi and Marathi cinema, portraying a wide range of memorable characters.

His acclaimed performances in films such as Parinda, Prahaar, Krantiveer, Khamoshi and Ab Tak Chhappan established him as one of India’s most versatile performers.

Patekar was also recognised with several major honours during his career, including three National Film Awards and the Padma Shri for his contribution to the arts.

His Final Years on Screen

Even in his later years, Patekar continued to remain active in films and digital entertainment.

He was recently seen in Vishal Bhardwaj’s romantic action thriller O’ Romeo, which also featured Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri. He played the role of Ismail Khan, the head of the Mumbai Intelligence Bureau.

He also appeared in Anil Kapoor’s Subedaar, which was released on Prime Video in March 2026. His other recent projects included Housefull 5 and Vanvaas.

Fitness Video Went Viral Shortly Before His Death

Patekar had also attracted attention for his fitness in the days before his death. A video showing the veteran actor performing a series of tricep dips had gone viral on social media, with fans praising his discipline and physical fitness.

The video has now resurfaced following his sudden demise, becoming an emotional reminder of the actor’s active lifestyle and enduring spirit.

End of an Extraordinary Acting Journey

Nana Patekar’s death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cinema. From theatre and serious cinema to mainstream Bollywood films, he carved out a distinctive identity through his powerful performances and unmistakable screen presence.

His contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema over nearly five decades has left behind a lasting legacy that is expected to be remembered by generations of film lovers.

The post Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75 After Cardiac Arrest in Goa appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Odisha may come under the influence of another low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, according to the latest forecast from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). The anticipated weather system could bring more rainfall to the state and potentially dampen the ongoing festive season.

According to the European model, the prospective low-pressure system may gradually intensify into a depression and subsequently a deep depression. The possibility of the system strengthening slightly beyond the deep depression stage cannot also be ruled out at this stage.

System Formation Over Bay of Bengal

The possibility of a weather system developing over the Bay of Bengal has increased compared to earlier forecasts. According to projections from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there is a 20–40 per cent possibility of a cyclonic storm developing over the North Indian Ocean between October 14 and 20.

Weather conditions are currently considered favourable for the formation of a low-pressure system. However, it is still too early to determine exactly where the system will develop and what its eventual movement will be.

Wind Shear Could Determine Intensity

Meteorologists say the strength of the potential system will largely depend on atmospheric conditions in the coming days. If vertical wind shear decreases, the system could become more organised and stronger.

A reduction in the difference in wind speed and direction between the 850 hPa and 200 hPa levels could create more favourable conditions for further intensification.

A clearer picture of the system’s potential strength and impact is expected to emerge around October 10 to 12.

Favourable Conditions for Cyclogenesis

Weather patterns over the Bay of Bengal are currently undergoing changes as the southwest monsoon weakens. The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) may also become more favourable over the Indian Ocean.

Both ECMWF and GEFS model projections indicate that atmospheric conditions could support the formation and strengthening of a low-pressure system.

However, meteorologist Professor Surendranath Pasupalak has advised people not to panic, stating that there is currently no indication of any direct threat to Odisha.

Rainfall Likely Across Odisha

The state is expected to receive rainfall over the next three days. Bhubaneswar, which has witnessed relatively high temperatures over the past few days, may also experience some relief, with temperatures likely to fall by around 2–3 degrees Celsius during the next two to three days.

The weather department has forecast light to moderate rainfall at several places, with the possibility of heavy rainfall at isolated locations until October 9.

Thunderstorms Forecast in Several Districts

During the next 24 hours, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning may occur at one or two places in several districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj, Jajpur, Sundargarh, Keonjhar, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Dhenkanal, Angul, Deogarh, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Subarnapur, Balangir, Nuapada and Bargarh.

Residents in these areas have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms and lightning activity.

Festive Season May Face Weather Disruptions

With another potential low-pressure system being closely monitored, rainfall could remain a concern during the festive period. However, officials and weather experts are expected to get a clearer understanding of the system’s track, intensity and potential impact over the next few days.

For now, there is no indication of a direct threat to Odisha, but the evolving weather system over the Bay of Bengal will remain under close observation.

The post Another Low-Pressure System Likely to Impact Odisha, ECMWF Forecast Suggests appeared first on Odisha Connect.

A 12-hour Odisha bandh called by the INDIA bloc is being observed across the state today, with the Congress leading the protest. While the impact of the bandh varies from district to district, reports of road blockades, disrupted public transport and closure of shops have emerged from several parts of Odisha.

The bandh has triggered political activity across the state, but it is also causing considerable inconvenience to ordinary people, particularly patients travelling to hospitals and daily-wage workers dependent on their day’s earnings.

Public Transport Disrupted, Passengers Stranded

Although essential services have reportedly been kept outside the purview of the bandh, disruption to vehicular movement has created difficulties for people travelling for urgent work.

Patients and their family members heading to hospitals have faced particular hardship as public and private transport services remain disrupted in several areas. People who would normally spend a small amount on transportation have reportedly been forced to pay significantly higher fares to reach medical facilities.

Passengers travelling for urgent work have also been stranded at various locations, with many expressing anger and frustration over the disruption.

Complete Impact in Subarnapur

The bandh has had a significant impact in Subarnapur district. Congress workers were seen conducting picketing at several major intersections across the district.

With the exception of emergency services, vehicular movement has largely remained disrupted in several areas. Shops and commercial establishments have also been affected by the bandh, adding to the difficulties faced by commuters.

Traffic Disrupted in Kendrapara

The impact of the bandh in Kendrapara has been relatively mixed, but traffic movement has been severely affected at several points.

Congress workers blocked the state highway near Tinimuhani Chhak in Kendrapara town. The blockade disrupted movement into the town as well as traffic on the Pattamundai and Rajnagar routes.

As a result, commuters travelling along these routes have faced significant inconvenience, with many passengers reportedly struggling to reach their destinations.

Mixed Response in Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna has also witnessed a mixed response to the bandh. Several shops and marketplaces remained closed, while vehicular movement on roads was significantly reduced.

The situation, however, has varied across different parts of the city, with the extent of the bandh differing from one locality to another.

Patients and Daily-Wage Workers Face Maximum Hardship

The disruption caused by the bandh has raised concerns over its impact on vulnerable sections of society. Patients travelling to medical facilities and their attendants are among those facing the greatest difficulties.

Daily-wage workers have also been affected, as disruption of normal economic activity means many may lose a day’s income.

While the INDIA bloc has called the bandh as part of its political protest, critics have questioned the impact of such shutdowns on ordinary citizens who depend on uninterrupted transport and daily economic activity.

Political Heat Rises as Normal Life Takes a Hit

The 12-hour Odisha bandh has intensified political activity across the state, with Congress-led INDIA bloc workers taking to the streets at several locations.

However, the disruption to transport, business and daily activities has also fuelled public dissatisfaction. With the bandh affecting different districts to varying degrees, ordinary citizens, particularly patients and daily-wage workers, appear to be bearing much of the immediate burden.

As the bandh continues, its overall impact on normal life across Odisha remains a key concern.

The post 12-Hour Odisha Bandh Disrupts Normal Life Across State; Common People, Patients Bear the Brunt appeared first on Odisha Connect.

A 12-hour Odisha bandh has been called for Thursday, October 8, with the Congress-led INDIA bloc appealing to supporters to observe the shutdown peacefully and democratically. The bandh will be observed from 6 am to 6 pm, with several political parties extending support to the call.

The INDIA bloc has issued detailed guidelines outlining what participants should and should not do during the bandh. While shops, markets, commercial establishments, offices, educational institutions and commercial vehicles are expected to be affected, supporters have been asked to rely only on peaceful appeals and democratic picketing.

The guidelines specifically call for respectful and restrained behaviour towards the public. Participants have been asked to assist people travelling for emergencies, particularly patients, senior citizens, children and women.

Essential Services to Remain Operational

Emergency and essential services have been kept outside the purview of the bandh. Government and private hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, emergency medical centres, diagnostic facilities, blood banks, doctors, nurses and healthcare workers will continue to function.

All student examinations, ambulances including 108 and 102 services, fire services, rescue teams, pharmacies, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, milk supply, disaster management services, emergency police services, electricity and water supply are also expected to remain operational.

The INDIA bloc has also appealed to supporters not to obstruct journalists and media personnel covering the bandh.

Odisha Government Steps Up Security

The state Home Department has directed all district collectors to remain alert and take preventive measures to maintain law and order. The bandh may witness road blockades, rail blockades, rallies and protests, besides possible disruptions near mines and government offices.

The Home Department has asked officials to ensure that central and state government offices function normally and that essential services remain unaffected.

High Court Bar Seeks Suspension of Hearings

The Odisha High Court Bar Association has written to the Registrar Judicial requesting that court proceedings be suspended on Thursday due to the bandh.

The association said disruptions to road and rail connectivity could affect the movement and safety of lawyers, making it difficult for many advocates to appear before the court either physically or virtually. It has also requested that no adverse or ex parte orders be passed in cases where lawyers are unable to attend.

Police Warn Against Violence

An extensive security review meeting was held at the Odisha Police headquarters under the chairmanship of Interim DGP Binaytosh Mishra. Police deployment and patrolling will be strengthened at national highways, railway stations and other sensitive locations, while naka checking will also be intensified.

The police have warned that violence, vandalism, forced closure of shops or obstruction of public movement will invite immediate legal action.

District SPs and DCPs have been directed to maintain strict vigil across the state and ensure that the October 8 bandh remains peaceful and does not disrupt public safety or essential services.

The post 12-Hour Odisha Bandh on October 8: INDIA Bloc Issues Guidelines, Police Warn Against Force appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed 25 uninterrupted years in public and political life, marking a significant milestone in his political journey from Gujarat to the highest office in the country.

Modi began his constitutional journey on October 7, 2001, when he took oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat for the first time. He served as Gujarat Chief Minister for nearly 13 years across three terms before becoming the Prime Minister of India in 2014.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Modi addressed people across 750 districts and highlighted the importance of public service, democratic values and the collective determination to build a developed India by 2047.

Recalling his first day as Gujarat Chief Minister, Modi said he had never imagined that he would reach such a position. He expressed gratitude to the Constitution and democracy of India, saying that the trust and blessings of the people had played the biggest role in his journey.

“Today, whatever I am, wherever I am and whatever responsibility I hold, the greatest contribution is that of the people,” Modi said. He added that the country had given him a great deal and therefore his responsibility towards the nation was equally significant.

‘We Will Do It’ Mantra

Emphasising the vision of a developed India by 2047, Modi repeated the message, “We Will Do It.” He said the country needs the determination and ambition to reach new heights and stressed that limited resources should not restrict the nation’s dreams.

The Prime Minister also spoke about the inspiration he drew from the teachings of personalities ranging from Gautama Buddha to Swami Vivekananda. He said he had never felt alone while serving the nation and acknowledged the support of volunteers and party workers.

Modi described service to humanity, particularly service to the poor and vulnerable, as a responsibility and a core duty.

Tribute to Workers and Volunteers

The Prime Minister paid tribute to every volunteer and party worker, saying the 25-year milestone was not merely an occasion to remember the past but also an opportunity to renew the commitment towards national service.

Earlier in the day, Modi offered prayers at the Sri Vinayak Temple in Delhi and reaffirmed his commitment to serving the nation.

Across the country, programmes under the ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’ are being organised to mark the milestone. His journey from Gujarat Chief Minister to Prime Minister is being highlighted through the themes of service, determination and dedication, with the broader goal of contributing to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

The post PM Modi Completes 25 Years in Public and Political Life, Reaffirms ‘We Will Do It’ Vision appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Bengali film actress Koel Mallick is set to return to the Rajya Sabha, this time as a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from West Bengal. The BJP has nominated the popular actress for the October 16 Rajya Sabha bypoll to the seat she had earlier vacated.

Koel recently joined the BJP and subsequently filed her nomination in the presence of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya. She had earlier served as a Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP but resigned from the Upper House on July 16, 2026.

Koel’s Odisha Film Connection

Koel Mallick also has a connection with the Odia film industry. She made her Ollywood debut in 2005 with Premi Number One, directed by Debu Pattnaik, in which she acted opposite Anubhav Mohanty.

She returned to Odia cinema in 2007 with Mahanayak, directed by Debu Pattnaik and Sudhanshu Sahu. Her appearances in these films made her a familiar face among Odia movie audiences.

From Cinema to Politics

Koel, daughter of veteran Bengali actor Ranjit Mallick, began her acting career in 2003 and went on to establish herself as one of the prominent faces of Bengali cinema. She featured in several successful films, particularly during the 2003–2010 period.

Her political journey began with her nomination to the Rajya Sabha by the Trinamool Congress earlier this year. She took oath as an MP in April but resigned a few months later.

Now, with the BJP fielding her from West Bengal, Koel is poised for a return to the Upper House. Her political shift, along with her association with Odia cinema, has generated considerable interest in Odisha as well.

The post Koel Mallick Set for Rajya Sabha Return on BJP Ticket appeared first on Odisha Connect.