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We congratulate the central government leadership and our armed forces for decisive action “Operation Sindoor” taken against Pak-sponsored terrorists and their supporting ecosystem following the cowardly attack on unarmed tourists at Pahalgam. This action to serve justice to aggrieved families and entire country in the brutal massacre of Hindu tourists has enhanced self-respect and morale the whole country. We totally agree that military action being taken against terrorists, their infrastructure and support systems in Pakistan is necessary and inevitable for security of the country. In this hour of national crisis, the entire country stands with government and armed forces in spirit and action.

We condemn the attacks being carried out by Pakistani army on religious places and civilian settlement areas on the border of Bharat and express heartfelt condolences to families of victims in these savage, inhuman attacks. In this challenging time, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh appeals to all citizens to ensure full compliance of instructions being given by the government and administration. Along with this, while discharging our sacred civic duty, we all have to be cautious and do not let any conspiracy of anti-national forces to succeed in disrupting social unity and harmony. All citizens are requested to display their patriotism and be ready to cooperate with the army and civic administration wherever and however required and strengthen all efforts to maintain national unity and security. Mohan Bhagwat Sarsanghchalak

In the heart of Madhubani, Bihar, where the vibrant hues of Mithila paintings tell stories of culture and resilience, Shambhu Shikhar was born on January 10, 1984. Raised in the modest village of Batohi Kamat (Sabha Gachi), Shambhu grew up in a family that toiled in the fields, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of the land. From an early age, he displayed an insatiable curiosity and a love for words, often weaving tales and rhymes that captivated his peers. His journey from a small-town dreamer to a celebrated poet and comedian is a testament to the power of language, dignity, and unwavering commitment.

Shambhu’s early years were marked by financial hardship. His family’s farming income was barely enough to sustain them, yet his parents instilled in him the value of education and perseverance. After completing his matriculation, he made the bold decision to move to Delhi, a city that promised opportunity but also challenged his resolve. There, he enrolled at Motilal Nehru College, Delhi University, where he earned a degree. To support himself, he took up tutoring, charging a modest Rs. 50 per student, a humble beginning that would later contrast starkly with his rise to fame.

In Delhi, Shambhu faced the sting of prejudice. His Bihari identity was often mocked by peers, who dismissed him as provincial. These experiences, though painful, ignited a spark within him. He channeled his emotions into poetry, crafting verses that celebrated Bihar’s rich heritage while confronting stereotypes with wit and grace. His breakthrough came with the poem Dhartiputra Bihari, a powerful ode to his roots that resonated deeply with audiences. The poem’s blend of pride, humor, and social commentary made it an instant hit, marking the beginning of Shambhu’s ascent in the world of poetry.

Shambhu’s belief in the dignity of language shaped his craft. For him, words were not mere tools of expression but sacred vessels of culture, identity, and truth. He approached poetry with a commitment to authenticity, ensuring that his verses reflected the lived experiences of ordinary people. His performances, often delivered in traditional Mithila attire like the dhoti-kurta, were a celebration of his heritage. Whether addressing social issues or evoking laughter, Shambhu’s poetry carried a positive energy that uplifted his audiences. His ability to blend humor with satire made him a unique voice in the Kavi Sammelan circuit, a platform he would transform into a global stage.

In 2007, Shambhu’s talent caught the nation’s attention when he became a semi-finalist on The Great Indian Laughter Challenge-III on StarPlus. His performances, infused with sharp wit and relatable humor, won hearts across India. This exposure opened doors to television shows like Wah! Wah! Kya Baat Hai! on SAB TV and News18 India’s Netaji Lapete Mein, where his comedic prowess shone. Yet, Shambhu remained true to his roots as a poet, using humor to amplify his poetry rather than overshadow it. His appearance on India’s Laughter Champion in 2022 further cemented his status as a beloved figure in Indian entertainment.

Shambhu’s commitment to language extended beyond performance. He authored several works, including poetry collections like Silwaton Ki Mehak (2014) and novels such as Sanyasi Yoddhay (2017) and Organic Love II (2022). His upcoming book, Chini Ko Jama Karke Fir Se Ganna Bana Du, promises to continue his tradition of blending humor with poignant storytelling. Through his writing, Shambhu preserved the essence of Hindi literature, earning him the prestigious Bharatendu Harishchand Puraskar from the Hindi Academy, Government of Delhi, in 2010.

His global performances in 23 countries, including the USA, Dubai, Vietnam, and Bahrain, showcased the universal appeal of his poetry. At events like the Jashn-e-Urdu Mushaira in Dubai, Shambhu’s recitations moved audiences to laughter and applause, bridging cultural divides. He viewed Kavi Sammelans as more than entertainment; they were an industry, as he noted, with a turnover of Rs. 300-400 crores nationwide. His success in this competitive field was a testament to his dedication and the respect he commanded for his craft.

Despite his fame, Shambhu never forgot his origins. He remained deeply connected to Madhubani, often returning to inspire young poets and artists. His philanthropy reflected his compassionate nature, as he supported causes in education, healthcare, and animal welfare. At the Bihar Vision Conclave in 2024, he praised the “Let’s Inspire Bihar” initiative, emphasizing its role in fostering hope among the state’s youth. His mentorship of aspiring comedians and poets further demonstrated his commitment to nurturing talent, creating a supportive artistic community.

Shambhu’s poetry often carried a message of positivity. In one of his famous poems, he humorously narrates falling asleep during a board exam, only to wake up to failure, yet the tone is light, encouraging resilience over despair. Another poem, reflecting on societal issues, speaks of “smiles dying with every news,” urging children to hold onto hope. His ability to address serious themes with humor made his work accessible and impactful, resonating with diverse audiences.

Social media became a powerful tool for Shambhu to connect with fans. On platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, he shared comedic sketches, poetry recitations, and glimpses of his life, amassing a following of over 10,000 on Twitter alone. His mantra, as echoed by his audience, was: “Why sit in sadness when Shambhu Shikhar is here?” This sentiment captured the joy he brought to countless lives.

Shambhu’s story is one of triumph over adversity, rooted in his unwavering belief in the dignity of language. From charging Rs. 50 for tuition to commanding lakhs for a single show, his journey reflects the transformative power of commitment and creativity. He transformed personal struggles into universal stories, using poetry to heal, inspire, and unite. His performances, whether in a Houston auditorium or a Delhi stage, carried the warmth of his Bihari roots and the wisdom of his experiences.

As Shambhu continues to evolve, exploring new forms of comedy and poetry, his legacy grows. He remains a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances. His life reminds us that language, when wielded with dignity and purpose, can change lives and shape futures. In a world often divided, Shambhu Shikhar’s poetry stands as a bridge, connecting hearts with laughter, pride, and the enduring power of words.

Delhi : In the bustling heart of Indian media, where voices vie for attention and stories shape the nation’s consciousness, Deepak Chaurasia carved a niche that was uniquely his own. Born on December 28, 1968, in the vibrant city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Deepak’s journey from a small-town dreamer to a towering figure in Indian television journalism is a testament to grit, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to truth. Today, as we reflect on his life and legacy, we honor a man whose struggles, triumphs, and unrelenting spirit left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian media.

Deepak’s story begins in the modest lanes of Indore, where his early years were shaped by the simplicity and tenacity of middle-class India. Growing up in Sendhwa, a small town in Madhya Pradesh’s Barwani district, he was nurtured by a community that valued education and hard work. From a young age, Deepak displayed a curiosity about the world, a trait that would later define his journalistic career. His decision to pursue journalism was not a fleeting whim but a calling that took root in his teenage years, as he later shared, recalling his resolve to become a journalist by the time he was in the 10th grade. This clarity of purpose set him on a path that would lead him to the hallowed halls of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) in New Delhi, where he honed his craft and earned a diploma in journalism.

The journey to Delhi was not merely a geographical shift but a leap into a world of opportunity and challenge. In the early 1990s, Indian journalism was undergoing a transformation, with the advent of private television channels reshaping how news was consumed. Deepak arrived in this dynamic environment with little more than his education and a fierce determination to succeed. His first foray into the field was with the newspaper Sanjha Lokswami in 1993, where he cut his teeth as a reporter covering stories that demanded both courage and precision. His early assignments included reporting on the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from the Kashmir Valley, a tumultuous chapter in India’s history that tested his ability to navigate complex narratives with sensitivity and insight.

Deepak’s career took a significant leap when he co-founded Aaj Tak in 1995, a pioneering 24-hour Hindi news channel that would redefine Indian television journalism. As one of the foundational pillars of the channel, he played a pivotal role in shaping its identity as a platform for hard-hitting, accessible news. His work at Aaj Tak was marked by a relentless pursuit of stories that mattered, from political upheavals to social issues. Over the years, Deepak’s career saw him navigate a series of high-profile roles, including stints at DD News as a consulting editor in 2003, a return to Aaj Tak in 2004, and later positions at STAR News (which became ABP News), India News, News Nation, and Zee News. Each transition was a chapter in a career defined by adaptability and an unyielding drive to remain at the forefront of the industry.

Yet, Deepak’s journey was not without its struggles. The path of a journalist in India is fraught with challenges—political pressures, ethical dilemmas, and the constant scrutiny of public opinion. Deepak faced these head-on, often at great personal cost. His bold reporting style, characterized by incisive commentary and fearless sting operations, earned him both admirers and critics. In 2013, a Media Sarkar sting operation aired under his watch at India News, alleging financial impropriety by leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party. The operation sparked controversy, with accusations of fabrication and defamation, thrusting Deepak into the eye of a legal and public storm. Similarly, his coverage of the Asaram Bapu sexual assault case in 2013 led to criminal charges and arrest warrants, including a 2023 Haryana court order tied to a POCSO case. These incidents, while contentious, underscored Deepak’s willingness to tackle powerful figures and contentious issues, even when it invited backlash.

Perhaps the most public of his struggles came in 2021, when Deepak faced widespread criticism for his on-air demeanor while reporting the tragic death of General Bipin Rawat in a helicopter crash. Social media erupted with accusations of inebriation as he slurred words and made factual errors, referring to the general as a “journalist” and “General V.P. Singh.” The incident was a low point, drawing harsh scrutiny and leading to his abrupt removal from the broadcast. Yet, Deepak’s response—denying intoxication and attributing his condition to painkillers for a leg injury—revealed a man grappling with personal challenges under the unrelenting glare of public judgment. His resilience in the face of such criticism, coupled with his determination to continue his career, spoke to the depth of his character.

Beyond the controversies, Deepak’s contributions to journalism were profound. His coverage of major events, including the 9/11 attacks, the 2004 Tsunami, and the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, showcased his ability to report from the frontlines with clarity and compassion. His show, Tonight with Deepak Chaurasia, became a platform for robust debates, bringing critical issues to the forefront of public discourse. His work earned him recognition as one of the most influential Hindi-language journalists, a reputation bolstered by his ability to connect with audiences through his authoritative yet relatable style.

In 2024, Deepak ventured into uncharted territory by joining Bigg Boss OTT Season 3, a move that surprised many but reflected his willingness to embrace new challenges. His participation in the reality show was not merely a career pivot but an opportunity to reveal a different facet of his personality to a younger audience. Promising to share “uncensored” stories from his journalistic career, he brought his trademark candor to the Bigg Boss house, captivating viewers with insights into the media world. Though evicted after 30 days, his stint underscored his versatility and fearless approach to reinvention.

Deepak’s personal life, though less documented, was anchored by his family. Married to Anasuya Roy, he was a devoted husband and father to his children, balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the quiet joys of family life in New Delhi. His net worth, estimated at Rs. 21.5 million, was a reflection of his success, but it was his passion for journalism that truly defined him.

As we bid farewell to Deepak Chaurasia, we celebrate a journalist who dared to ask tough questions, who weathered storms with resilience, and who never shied away from the truth, even when it came at a cost. His struggles, often overshadowed by his public persona, were the crucible in which his legacy was forged. From the streets of Indore to the studios of Delhi, Deepak’s voice resonated with millions, reminding us that journalism, at its core, is about courage, conviction, and the relentless pursuit of stories that shape our world. His light may have dimmed, but the echo of his work will continue to inspire generations of journalists to come. Rest in peace, Deepak—you were, and always will be, a true titan of Indian journalism.

Sumeet Mehta

Don’t get excited to chase news. In times of war, psyops and propaganda is at the highest. Pakistan will flood social media with pro and anti India propaganda and mislead us into abyss.

The strategy is simple.

One set of Pakistani handles will behave like pro India handles and propagate false information like India destroying critical infrastructure, military establishments, etc. We will get enthused and spread it and do their job of spreading it all over. They will use it to justify attack on our civilians and critical infrastructure. Eg: Pakistan spread fake news of India attacking Noseri dam and damaging the gates. This never happened. We didn’t touch their infra. It was only reported in Pakistani media and we (including me) amplified their propaganda. Later Pakistan attacked civilians in Poonch and killed them. They may use this dam attack story to attack our dams. So we have to beware of our false victories that are being propagated on social media.

Other set of Pakistani handles will be pro Pakistan and will spread fake information of Pakistan downing dozens of our aircrafts, destroying our military establishments, etc. This is to demoralise us and create fear in our minds. We panic and lose trust in our army, our political leadership, and start abusing them for doing things wrong. This is also done to seed doubts and suspicion in our minds about the capabilities and preparedness of our defense forces and government. Once we lose confidence and panic sets in its chaos and confusion all over. Thats enough to mentally defeat us before we actually get defeated in the war. India successfully used this tactic in 1971 Bangladesh War by sharing a totally irrelevant pic of some paratroopers practicing air drops and showed that we have paradropped our army in Dhaka. This was reported in Indian media and immediately picked up by Pakistan who lost the nerve and surrendered. This is how psyops is done.

This is why Press Information Bureau in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has released this press note.

Don’t chase quick information from sources on internet in the race and greed to know what is happening in the war and how we are faring. It can be hazardous like quick service junk food outlets.

Trust our leader. Trust our defence forces – Army, Navy, and Air Force. They will take care of everything.