Issue 04 | October, 2025
Negotiations to focus on investment,
tariff relief and sustainable power
by VIVEK MISHRA
INDIA and the United States are set to hold trade talks, with New
Delhi pledging to increase imports of US energy and gas as it seeks to
address Washington’s concerns over its Russian oil purchases.
The discussions are part of a wider effort to conclude a bilateral trade
agreement that could significantly expand economic cooperation between
the two countries.
Negotiations began in February 2025 with the goal of doubling bilateral
trade to $ 500 billion by 2030.
Talks were suspended in August after the Trump administration an
nounced tariff hikes of up to 50 per cent on Indian goods, accusing New
Delhi of financing Russia’s war in Ukraine through oil purchases.
They resumed in September after US president Donald Trump spoke to
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, signalling renewed engagement. As
part of the talks, India is looking to raise energy and gas imports from the US.
This follows meetings between US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor and
Indian leaders, including Modi and commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal, to
strengthen bilateral trade and investment.
“During my visit to India, I met with commerce secretary Agrawal and
discussed US-India economic ties, including increased investment in the
United States,” Gor said on X on Sunday (October 16)
An Indian official told Reuters negotiations have been “constructive” and
that both sides are working towards an early conclusion of the first phase of
the agreement, expected next month. In August, the Trump administration
imposed a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff and an additional 25 per cent penalty
on Indian goods entering the American market for purchasing Russian crude,
bringing the total import duty to 50 per cent.
Continued on page 2
www.indiaweekly.biz
Modi meets CEO of
Qualcomm
Delhi reopens Kabul
embassy
Diwali a state holiday
in California
Aishwarya Rai dazzles
in Paris
Kerala gears up
for Messi
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Page - 08
Page - 03
Page - 20
Page - 24
Trade talks resume
as Delhi agrees to
import US energy
© iStock
ECONOMIC RESET: The US
remained India’s top trading
partner in 2024–25, with trade
worth $131.84 billion
Continued from page 1
Discussions resumed in September after Trump
struck a conciliatory tone and spoke to Modi, rais
ing hopes for a breakthrough.
Indian officials held “constructive” talks with
US counterparts in Washington last month, agree
ing to push for an early conclusion of a mutually
beneficial trade deal.
The two sides have held five rounds of negotia
tions, with the sixth, postponed in August, now
expected to conclude the first phase of the pact
next month, as agreed by Trump and Modi.
Officials to visit Washington
A team of senior Indian officials will visit the US
this month for negotiations on the proposed Bilat
eral Trade Agreement (BTA).
Leaders of both countries had directed officials
in February to finalise the first tranche of the pact
by the fall of 2025. “The Indian team will visit this
week,” an official said.
Sector focus and incentives
Last month, India’s commerce and industry min
ister Piyush Goyal led an official delegation to
New York for trade talks.
India is seeking greater participation from pri
vate players, including US firms, in its renewable
and nuclear energy sectors.
“Investments coming into our renewable ener
gy sectors are an important area of our relation
ship (with the US),” the official said, noting that
New Delhi was open to buying more Liquefied
Natural Gas (LNG) from the United States.
When asked about the Trump administration’s
call for greater Indian investment in the US, the
source said New Delhi was not opposed and
viewed overseas investments by Indian firms
positively, similar to China’s approach.
Export shock and losses
The US tariff hikes have hurt Indian exports of
textiles, leather goods, gems & jewellery, and food
products, prompting the government to diversify
markets and offer incentives to exporters.
India’s exports to the US fell to USD 6.86 billion
in August from USD 8.01 billion in July, with fur
ther declines in September.
The US remained India’s largest trading partner
for the fourth consecutive year in 2024-25, with
bilateral trade valued at USD 131.84 billion (USD
86.5 billion exports).
The US accounts for about 18 per cent of India’s
total goods exports, 6.22 per cent of imports, and
10.73 per cent of total merchandise trade.
Energy market context
Negotiations are proceeding against a backdrop of
global energy market shifts and US pressure on
Russia’s energy buyers.
Russia is India’s top oil supplier, exporting 1.62
million barrels per day to India in September,
about one-third of the country’s oil imports.
For months, Modi resisted US pressure, with
Indian officials defending the purchases as vital to
national energy security.
While imports from other producers would
likely cost India more, lower oil prices would tem
per the impact. Some Indian refiners are prepar
ing to cut Russian oil imports, Reuters reported,
with expectations of a gradual reduction.
They said it would be difficult to immediately
stop buying Russian oil, as a sudden switch to
other crude sources would drive up global oil
prices and risk inflation.
Trade-offs and data
Between April and September, India imported 1.75
million barrels per day of Russian crude, down to
about 36 per cent of total oil imports from 40 per
cent a year earlier.
US crude imports rose 6.8 per cent to about
213,000 bpd, making up 4.3 per cent of total im
ports. The share of Middle Eastern oil rose to 45
per cent from 42 per cent in the same period.
Government statement
India said discussions were ongoing with the
United States on deepening energy cooperation.
“It has been our consistent priority to safeguard
the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile
energy scenario. Our import policies are guided
entirely by this objective,” the foreign ministry
said. The statement did not refer to Trump’s com
ment about India’s purchases of Russian oil.
Trump’s remarks and timing
Trump said Modi could not “immediately” halt
shipments, calling it “a little bit of a process, but
that process will be over soon.” A move by India to
stop imports would signal a major shift by one of
Moscow’s top energy customers and could reshape
decisions by other nations still importing Russian
crude. Trump wants to leverage bilateral relation
ships to enforce economic isolation on Russia,
rather than relying solely on multilateral sanctions.
Business engagement
Amid the diplomatic backdrop, business leaders
have engaged with policymakers.
JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon told the BBC he
wanted to “bring India closer” and believed a deal
was near to reduce additional tariffs on India,
imposed over its Russian oil trade. “In fact, I’ve
spoken to several of the Trump officials who say
they want to do that, and I’ve been told that they
are going to do that,” Dimon said.
What’s next?
The negotiations aim for a pact addressing tariffs,
digital trade, investment barriers and broader
economic cooperation.
US negotiators have said curbing Russian crude
purchases would be crucial to reducing India’s
tariff rate and sealing a deal.
As the Indian team prepares to visit Washington
this for the sixth round of talks, both governments
face decisions on energy, trade and investment that
could shape economic relations for years.
Officials describe the meetings as constructive
and say they are pushing for an early conclusion to
a deal they call mutually beneficial. (With inputs
from agencies)
Renewed push for balanced
pact as tariffs bite exporters
INDIAN TEAM TO VISIT WASHINGTON THIS WEEK FOR SIXTH ROUND OF TALKS
News
www.indiaweekly.biz • October, 2025
02
GLOBAL BALANCE: India and US resumed talks in September
after Donald Trump spoke to Narendra Modi, signalling renewed
engagement; (top left) Last month, India’s commerce and industry
minister Piyush Goyal led an official delegation to New York for
trade talks; and India commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal
Images © Getty Images
FLORIDA Senator Rick Scott has
strongly condemned Palm Bay
Councilman Chandler Langevin
for making racist remarks about
Indian Americans, calling his
statements “hateful, ignorant,
and un-American.”
The controversy erupted after
Langevin claimed that Indians in
the US “only care about enriching
India,” sparking outrage from both
political leaders and the Indian-
American community.
Senator Scott, a Republican
and former governor of Florida,
issued a sharp rebuke, saying,
“There’s no place for hate in Flor
ida. The Indian-American com
munity are proud Americans who
make our country great.” His
statement came as public anger
intensified, with hundreds of
community members attending a
Palm Bay Council meeting to de
mand Langevin’s removal.
Democratic Representative
Fendrice Driskell also con
demned the remarks, calling
them “disgusting” and evidence
of a long-standing pattern of big
otry. “Langevin has shown again
and again that he is unfit to be a
leader. I hope the good people of
Palm Bay reject him and his igno
rance,” she said.
Langevin made the inflamma
tory comments on social media,
writing: “There is not a single Indi
an in the US who cares about the
United States. They only care
about enriching India and exploit
ing the US financially.” Although
he deleted the post following
backlash, he refused to apologize,
claiming his words were directed
at “illegals or visa holders,” not In
dian-Americans. The Palm Bay
Council swiftly voted to remove
Langevin and has requested Flor
ida Governor Ron DeSantis to ap
prove his dismissal. While De
Santis has not yet commented,
the issue has reignited debate
around the H-1B visa program,
which the governor has previous
ly criticized as a “scam.”
The council meeting witnessed
a large turnout of Indian-Ameri
cans from across Florida. Many
carried placards denouncing hate
speech and calling for account
ability. Langevin, however, at
tempted to downplay the protests,
claiming “only 500 people showed
up from all around Florida.”
In a later post on X, Langevin
accused “leftists” of exploiting the
issue and claimed he was open to
“important dialogue” with Indian-
American leaders. His comments
have only deepened the backlash,
with advocacy groups urging po
litical accountability and educa
tion on cultural sensitivity. As calls
for his removal grow, the episode
highlights rising concerns about
xenophobia and political rhetoric
targeting immigrants amid ongo
ing tensions over H-1B visas and
US-India relations.
Florida senator slams
racist remarks on Indians
IN A landmark step towards cultural inclusivity,
California has officially declared Diwali as a state
holiday, becoming the third US state, after Penn
sylvania and Connecticut, to recognize the Festi
val of Lights. The move, which marks a significant
milestone for Indian Americans, was signed into
law by Governor Gavin Newsom following the pas
sage of Assembly Bill (AB) 268, introduced by As
sembly member Ash Kalra.
“California is home to the largest population of
Indian Americans, and designating Diwali as an of
ficial state holiday will uplift its message to the hun
dreds of thousands who celebrate it,” Kalra said
while introducing the bill. “Diwali brings communi
ties together with a message of goodwill, peace, and
renewal. California should embrace Diwali and its
diversity—not keep it hidden in darkness.”
The bill passed both houses of the California Leg
islature in September before reaching the Gover
nor’s desk for approval. Governor Newsom signed
the bill earlier this month, making Diwali an offi
cially recognized state holiday, allowing state em
ployees paid time off and giving schools the flexibil
ity to observe the day. Families across the state can
now celebrate with traditional activities like lighting
diyas, creating rangolis, and sharing stories of re
newal and togetherness.
The announcement has been met with wide
spread celebration among Indian American com
munities and advocacy groups. Nonprofit organiza
tion Indiaspora hailed the decision as a ‘major mile
stone’ for cultural inclusion and representation in
the United States. “With California—the nation’s
most populous state—officially recognizing Diwali,
Indian Americans celebrate a significant moment in
their journey toward greater representation,” the or
ganization said in a statement.
MR Rangaswami, Founder and Chairman of Indi
aspora, called the decision “historic,” saying it hon
ors generations of Indian Americans who have con
tributed to California’s economic and cultural
growth. “Governor Newsom’s leadership reflects the
inclusive spirit our nation needs today,” Rangaswami
added. “Recognizing Diwali as a state holiday af
firms that diversity is truly our strength.”
The Festival of Lights, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs,
Jains, and Buddhists worldwide, symbolizes the tri
umph of light over darkness and good over evil. For
California’s more than one million Indian Ameri
cans, the holiday now represents not only a spiritual
celebration but also a moment of civic pride.
Ajay Bhutoria, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur and
philanthropist, praised the move as a “radiant mile
stone” in the state’s journey toward inclusivity. “Di
wali embodies the triumph of hope over hardship
and unity over division—a message that deeply reso
nates with the nearly one million South Asians who
call California home,” he said. “This recognition is
more than a holiday; it’s an affirmation of the dias
pora’s enduring legacy in the Golden State.”
The recognition comes amid a growing movement
across the US to acknowledge Diwali as a public
holiday. Pennsylvania became the first state to offi
cially recognize the festival in 2024, followed by Con
necticut earlier this year. Meanwhile, New York City
announced that Diwali would be a public-school
holiday starting November 2024.
Community leaders have described California’s
move as a reflection of America’s evolving multicul
tural identity. It acknowledges the contributions of
Indian Americans in sectors like technology, health
care, academia, and entrepreneurship, fields where
they play a vital role.
Bhutoria also extended his gratitude to Governor
Newsom, Assemblymember Ash Kalra, and Assem
blymember Dr Darshana Patel for their advocacy.
“Your leadership has brightened Diwali for genera
tions to come and inspired a nation to celebrate our
shared light,” he said. As Diwali gains recognition
across the United States, the celebration’s deeper
message of light, renewal, and harmony continues to
resonate. For Indian Americans in California, this
legislation marks not just a policy victory but a cul
tural moment that bridges heritage and home, illu
minating a future where every light, and every com
munity, is seen and celebrated.
California declares Diwali
an official state holiday
RECOGNITION SEEN AS HISTORIC BOOST FOR INDIAN AMERICAN IDENTITY
News
www.indiaweekly.biz • October, 2025
03
© iStock
DIVERSE GLOW: More than
one million Californians
celebrate Diwali
SPEAKING OUT:
Rick Scott
© Getty Images
News
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
04
A TEXAS Republican Sen
ate candidate, Alexander
Duncan, has ignited a con
troversy after calling the
Hindu god Hanuman ‘false’
and declaring that America
is a ‘Christian nation.’ His
remarks, made on social
media alongside a video of a
90-foot statue of Hanuman
in Sugar Land, Texas, have
drawn widespread condem
nation from Hindu groups
and social media users
across the US.
Duncan’s post read, “Why
are we allowing a false stat
ue of a false Hindu god to
be here in Texas? We are a
CHRISTIAN nation!” He fol
lowed it with a Bible verse
from Exodus 20:3-4, which
prohibits the worship of
idols or gods other than the
Christian deity.
The statue in question,
known as the Statue of
Union, stands at the Sri
Ashtalakshmi Temple in
Sugar Land and was inaugu
rated in 2024. At 90 feet tall,
it is the tallest Hanuman
statue in North America and
the third-tallest in the Unit
ed States. The monument,
built under the guidance of
Sri Chinnajeeyar Swamiji,
has become a major cultural
and spiritual symbol for the
growing Hindu American
community in Texas.
Duncan’s comments were
met with sharp criticism
from the Hindu American
Foundation (HAF), which
described them as ‘anti-Hin
du hate.’ The organization
demanded action from the
Republican Party of Texas,
questioning whether the
party would discipline its
candidate for promoting re
ligious discrimination. The
HAF pointed out that such
remarks contradict the First
Amendment of the US Con
stitution, which guarantees
freedom of religion and pro
hibits the establishment of
any official faith.
Social media users also
condemned Duncan’s
stance, accusing him of reli
gious intolerance. One com
menter reminded him that
Hinduism predates Christi
anity by thousands of years,
calling the Vedas ‘extraordi
nary texts’ that influenced
many spiritual traditions.
Another user noted that the
existence of a statue does
not impose religion on any
one and that denying space
to other faiths undermines
America’s core values of lib
erty and diversity.
While the Republican
Party of Texas has yet to re
spond to the incident, the
episode has renewed calls
for greater awareness and
respect for religious plural
ism in American public life.
US lawmakers urge Trump
to roll back India tariffs
BIPARTISAN LETTER WARNS PUNITIVE DUTIES HARM BOTH ECONOMIES
ON THE occasion of Ma
hatma Gandhi Jayanti,
Ambassador Vinay
Kwatra and officials
from the Embassy of In
dia in Washington, D.C.
paid floral tributes to
the Father of the Nation,
marking a solemn mo
ment of remembrance
and respect.
Ahead of the national
observance, the Em
bassy hosted a special
event on September 30,
2025, celebrating Gan
dhiji’s enduring legacy
and universal message
of peace and nonvio
lence. The event saw
enthusiastic participa
tion from the Indian di
aspora, students, pro
fessionals, and friends
of India across the Unit
ed States.
The highlight of the
program was an inspir
ing talk by Smt. Karuna,
Director of the Gandhi
Memorial Center in
Bethesda, Maryland.
She spoke on “Gandhi’s
Life and Message,”
sharing moving anec
dotes from Gandhiji’s
journey, his influences,
and his vision for a just
and harmonious world.
The event concluded
with soulful perfor
mances of bhajans and
devotional songs belov
ed by Bapu, rendered by
differently abled Indian
artists, Anusha Manju
nath and Vasundhara
Raturi. Their heartfelt
renditions added a
touch of grace and
emotion to the evening,
capturing the essence
of the Gandhian spirit.
The celebration re
flected India’s deep-
rooted connection to
Gandhiji’s ideals and
their continued reso
nance among commu
nities worldwide.
Embassy marks
Gandhi Jayanti
with tributes
US candidate calls Hanuman ‘false god’
A BIPARTISAN group of 19 US lawmakers, led by
Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna and
Congresswoman Deborah Ross, has urged presi
dent Donald Trump to reverse the administra
tion’s recently imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indi
an goods, warning that such measures could desta
bilize a key strategic partnership and drive India
toward China and Russia.
In a strongly worded letter sent to the White House
on Wednesday (15), the lawmakers cautioned that the
punitive tariffs were “counterproductive and harmful”
to both American consumers and manufacturers, stress
ing the need for the US to “reset and repair this critical
partnership” with India rather than alienate it.
Lawmakers warn against straining key partnership
The appeal represents one of the most forceful inter
ventions from Capitol Hill against the Trump adminis
tration’s aggressive trade stance toward India. The sig
natories emphasized that their congressional districts
include large and vibrant Indian-American communi
ties, deeply tied to India through culture, commerce,
and innovation.
“Recent actions by your administration have strained
relations with the world’s largest democracy, creating
negative consequences for both countries,” the letter
stated. The lawmakers underscored that India remains
an indispensable partner in maintaining regional stabil
ity in the Indo-Pacific, particularly through its role in
The Quad alliance, a four-nation partnership with the
US, Japan, and Australia designed to balance China’s
growing geopolitical influence.
Ro Khanna’s advocacy for stronger US-India relations
Congressman Ro Khanna, who represents California’s
17th congressional district and co-chairs the Congres
sional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, has been
a consistent advocate for bolstering ties between Wash
ington and New Delhi. Along with Congresswoman
Ross, he emphasized that Trump’s tariff policy threat
ens both American and Indian jobs, undermining dec
ades of diplomatic cooperation.
“The US-India trade relationship supports hundreds
of thousands of jobs across both countries,” the lawmak
ers wrote, urging the administration to adopt a coopera
tive trade strategy rather than a confrontational one.
The letter’s signatories also included prominent Indian-
American legislators such as Raja Krishnamoorthi, Suhas
Subramanyam, Pramila Jayapal, and Shri Thanedar.
Tariffs trigger diplomatic and economic backlash
Trump’s tariffs are part of a series of escalating trade
measures targeting Indian exports. Earlier this year, the
President invoked powers under the International
Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose a
25 per cent reciprocal tariff on Indian goods. A few days
later, he signed an executive order imposing an addi
tional 25 per cent penalty, citing India’s ongoing oil
trade with Russia despite Western sanctions.
Together, these measures have effectively doubled
import costs for many Indian products entering the US,
impacting industries from textiles and pharmaceuticals
to engineering components. The resulting economic
strain has sparked concern among exporters and policy
makers on both sides, as the tariffs not only disrupt
trade flows but also risk inflationary pressures in the
US by increasing import costs for essential goods.
Call for review and reset
The group concluded their letter by urging the Trump
administration to review and roll back the tariff policy,
arguing that both countries stand to lose from confronta
tion. They reiterated that India and the United States, as
the world’s two largest democracies, share common val
ues of freedom, innovation, and economic opportunity
that should form the foundation of their relationship.
Ro Khanna’s leadership in this effort highlights a bi
partisan understanding that punitive trade measures
threaten not just business interests, but the broader
strategic and democratic alignment that has under
pinned US-India relations for decades.
As Washington debates its global trade and foreign
policy priorities, this congressional appeal signals a
growing consensus: America’s partnership with India is
too valuable to risk over tariffs.
CALL FOR RESPECT:
Hindu American
Foundation files
complaint against
Texas candidate
Alexander Duncan for
anti-Hindu remarks
POLICY BACKLASH:
Indian-American Democratic
Congressman Ro Khanna
© X/@AlexDuncanTX
© Getty Images
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06
THE Indian Consulate, in col
laboration with the Global Indi
an Diaspora Foundation, recent
ly celebrated India’s vision for
2047 as part of the global initia
tive “Viksit Bharat @ 2047”.
This event, held during the
Seva Pakhwada/Seva Parv from
September 17 to October 2,
highlighted India’s develop
mental goals for its centenary
of independence while empha
sizing the Indian diaspora’s
crucial role in achieving them.
The celebration showcased
how Non-Resident Indians
(NRIs) and Persons of Indian
Origin (PIOs) contribute to In
dia’s progress through econom
ic investments, cultural influ
ence, technological innovation,
and political engagement.
India’s engagement with its
global diaspora has evolved in
to a strategic partnership. With
over 32 million members
worldwide, the diaspora plays
a vital role in the nation’s eco
nomic, social, and cultural de
velopment. Historically, Indian
migration began during the co
lonial era, with indentured la
borers moving to regions such
as Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa,
and the Caribbean. Post-inde
pendence, India initially main
tained a cautious approach to
ward its diaspora, but econom
ic liberalization in the 1990s
marked a proactive outreach.
Institutions such as the Minis
try of Overseas Indian Affairs
(MOIA) in 2004 and the Pravasi
Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in 2003
further strengthened engage
ment, fostering mutually bene
ficial partnerships.
Current programs encourage
deeper diaspora involvement.
The annual PBD celebrates di
aspora contributions and pro
motes dialogue on India’s de
velopment goals. The Overseas
Citizenship of India (OCI) card
ensures lifelong connections,
while Pre-Departure Orienta
tion Training (PDOT) under
the Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yoja
na prepares Indian workers for
overseas employment. En
hanced consular services safe
guard the welfare of Indian cit
izens abroad, particularly in
the Gulf region.
The diaspora’s impact is
substantial. Remittances
reached $125 billion in 2023,
supporting household incomes
and foreign exchange reserves.
Diaspora professionals also
drive technological innovation,
while philanthropic initiatives
bolster education, healthcare,
and rural development in In
dia. Furthermore, Indian-origin
leaders like Rishi Sunak and
Kamala Harris exemplify the
diaspora’s soft power and glob
al influence.
Looking ahead, diaspora
contributions will be critical in
realizing a Viksit Bharat. In
vestments in infrastructure,
startups, and renewable ener
gy, coupled with knowledge
transfer, research collabora
tion, and global advocacy, can
propel India’s economic
growth and global standing.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
emphasized, “The world is
seeing India with a ray of hope
and our diaspora can play a
crucial role in further spread
ing it.” External Affairs Minis
ter S. Jaishankar added that
the diaspora is “not just a
bridge to the world but a vital
part of India’s growth story.”
Through sustained engage
ment, the Indian diaspora will
remain an indispensable part
ner in achieving prosperity, in
novation, and cultural promi
nence by 2047.
THE Consulate General of India in New York
marked the 10th Ayurveda Day with an engaging
panel discussion that highlighted the ancient In
dian system’s deep connection between nutrition,
holistic health, and mental well-being. The event,
held on September 28, 2025, brought together ex
perts, practitioners, and enthusiasts who ex
plored Ayurveda’s timeless wisdom and its grow
ing global relevance.
The theme for Ayurveda Day 2025, observed annu
ally on September 23, was “Ayurveda for People &
Planet.” It emphasized that Ayurveda is not merely a
healthcare practice but a way of life that promotes
harmony between humans and the environment. The
discussion focused on how Ayurvedic principles can
address modern health challenges while fostering sus
tainability and balance with nature.
Consul General Binaya Pradhan, in his address, un
derscored the increasing recognition of Ayurveda in
the United States. He noted that more Americans are
embracing Ayurveda’s holistic approach to wellness,
nutrition, and mental peace. Pradhan also highlighted
India’s ongoing efforts to promote Ayurveda as a scien
tific, evidence-based system of traditional medicine
that complements modern healthcare.
The panel discussion delved into the central role of
food and nutrition in maintaining overall health. Ex
perts explained how Ayurveda views food as medicine
and promotes mindful eating based on individual body
types, or doshas. They discussed the importance of
balance — between taste, digestion, and seasonal diet
— as a way to prevent diseases and promote longevity.
The speakers also examined the scientific foundations
of Ayurveda, pointing out recent research that sup
ports its age-old principles.
The Consulate General announced the official
launch of ‘Nutrition 360’, a flagship initiative that aims
to promote mindful and evidence-based nutrition
among diverse communities in the United States. The
initiative will offer educational programs, collabora
tions with local wellness centers, and digital awareness
campaigns to help people make healthier food choices
inspired by Ayurvedic science.
The event drew participation from members of the
Indian diaspora, health professionals, students, and
friends of India who share an interest in traditional
medicine and wellness practices. Attendees appreci
ated how Ayurveda continues to offer practical, adapt
able solutions for modern-day health issues such as
stress, poor diet, and lifestyle-related disorders.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twit
ter), the Consulate said, “Ayurveda’s time-tested princi
ples guide balanced nutrition, holistic health, and men
tal well-being.” The post reflected the mission’s com
mitment to promoting India’s traditional knowledge
systems on global platforms and fostering dialogue be
tween ancient wisdom and contemporary science.
Ayurveda Day celebrations worldwide are part of
India’s broader efforts to integrate traditional health
systems into global wellness discourse. As Ayurveda
gains popularity across the U.S., events like the one
hosted in New York reaffirm the country’s role as a
custodian of holistic health traditions that continue to
inspire people around the world.
New York marks 10th Ayurveda Day
Diaspora key to India’s 2047 vision
NATURE’S CURE: Experts
discuss Ayurveda’s role in
holistic health and nutrition
© X/@IndiainNewYork
COLLECTIVE GROWTH:
Viksit Bharat Run
organized in Palatine
© X/@Indi_Global
PANEL EXPLORES ANCIENT SYSTEM’S ROLE IN PROMOTING HOLISTIC HEALTH
Trump aide named US envoy
SERGIO GOR BECOMES YOUNGEST AMERICAN AMBASSADOR TO INDIA AT 38
News
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
07
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SERGIO GOR has been confirmed by the
United States Senate as the next US Ambas
sador to India, becoming the youngest
American envoy to New Delhi at 38. His ap
pointment marks a significant step in Wash
ington’s continued focus on strengthening
its strategic partnership with India amid
growing geopolitical challenges in the Indo-
Pacific region.
Gor was among 107 nominees approved in an
en bloc vote in the Senate on Tuesday, with 51
senators voting in favor and 47 against, even as
the government remains partially shut down.
Other key confirmations included Paul Kapur of
California as Assistant Secretary of State for
South Asian Affairs and Anjani Sinha of Florida
as Ambassador to Singapore.
President Donald Trump, who nominated Gor
in August, also named him Special Envoy for
South and Central Asian Affairs. Announcing the
nomination, Trump described Gor as “a great
friend, who has been at my side for many years.”
He added, “For the most populous region in the
world, it is important that I have someone I can
fully trust to deliver on my agenda and help us
‘Make America Great Again.’ Sergio will make an
incredible Ambassador.”
India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan
Kwatra, welcomed Gor’s nomination at the
time, calling him one of Trump’s most trust
ed aides. Kwatra said the choice reflected the
importance Washington attaches to its relation
ship with India.
At his Senate Foreign Relations Committee
confirmation hearing last month, Gor said India
was a key strategic partner whose trajectory
would influence the region and beyond. “Im
proving US-India trade ties will not only bolster
US competitiveness but also reduce China’s eco
nomic leverage over other nations,” he said.
Gor stressed that India’s role in ensuring
regional stability and security “cannot be under
stated.” He told senators that a stable South
Asia was in the interest of the United States
and all nations, adding, “The US-India partner
ship will define the 21st century. It is only by
working together that we can make that aspira
tion a reality. If confirmed as ambassador, I will
work to ensure the United States remains a
global leader while fostering a partnership that
benefits both nations.”
Following his confirmation, the US-India Stra
tegic Partnership Forum (USISPF) congratulated
both Gor and Kapur. The forum said it looked
forward to progress on trade, technology coop
eration, energy partnerships, and education ties
under Gor’s tenure.
USISPF President and CEO Dr. Mukesh Aghi
called Gor’s confirmation “timely and decisive,”
saying it signals that the US-India relationship “is
a top priority for the administration and the re
gion.” He added, “Together, through the right
diplomatic channels, we can iron out the creases
and reach consensus.”
Acknowledging that recent trade tensions had
created friction, the forum said Gor’s views dur
ing his hearing reflected optimism. “We strongly
agree with Ambassador Gor that Washington and
New Delhi have more in common with each
other than with Moscow or Beijing,” it said.
India is also expected to host the next Quad
Leaders’ Summit later this year, bringing togeth
er leaders of Australia, Japan, India, and the US
to further their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
The dates are yet to be finalized.
Gor arrived in India on a six-day visit follow
ing his Senate confirmation, accompanied by
Deputy Secretary for Management and Resourc
es Michael J. Rigas. On his first official engage
ment in New Delhi, he met Prime Minister Nar
endra Modi.
“Glad to receive Mr. Sergio Gor, Ambassador-
designate of the US to India. I’m confident that
his tenure will further strengthen the India-US
Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership,”
Modi said in a post on X.
The meeting came at a time when India-US
ties have faced strain after Washington imposed
50 percent tariffs on Indian exports. However,
recent phone conversations between Trump and
Modi have indicated renewed diplomatic engage
ment and optimism about easing trade tensions.
As Gor prepares to formally present his cre
dentials, both sides have expressed hope that his
appointment will help steer relations toward
greater cooperation on trade, defense, energy,
and technology, reinforcing what both govern
ments call one of the most consequential bilat
eral partnerships of the century.
POWER SHIFT:
Sergio Gor
© Patrick T Fallon/Getty Images
India
www.indiaweekly.biz • October, 2025
IINDIAN police have arrested
the owner of a pharmaceutical
company whose cough syrup
has been linked to the deaths of
at least 21 children in the cen
tral state of Madhya Pradesh,
officials said last week.
Most of the victims, all aged
under five, died over the past
month after consuming the syr
up, which tests later showed
was contaminated with diethyl
ene glycol (DEG), a highly toxic
industrial solvent. Even small
amounts of DEG can cause kid
ney failure and death.
The syrup, sold under the
brand name Coldrif, was manu
factured by Sresan Pharma at a
unit in the southern state of
Tamil Nadu. Following the
deaths, the Indian government
said samples tested by state
laboratories contained nearly
500 times the permissible limit
of the toxic chemical.
Police arrested Sresan Phar
ma’s owner, 75-year-old G. Ran
ganathan, at his home in Chen
nai early Thursday. He was
charged with culpable homicide
not amounting to murder and
drug adulteration, police sourc
es told local media.
The Tamil Nadu government
said on Monday that it had can
celled all of Sresan Pharma’s
manufacturing licenses and shut
down the company. “The manu
facturing licenses of Sresan
Pharmaceuticals have been com
pletely cancelled, and the com
pany has been shut down,” the
state government said in a state
ment. The Enforcement Direc
torate, India’s financial crime
agency, has also launched a
money-laundering investigation,
raiding seven premises linked to
the company, including homes
of senior officials from the
state’s drug control department,
according to media reports.
The contaminated cough syr
up was sold only in India, but
the case has renewed concerns
over the safety of the country’s
pharmaceutical exports. India is
the world’s third-largest produc
er of drugs by volume and sup
plies 40 percent of generic
medicines used in the United
States and more than 90 per
cent in many African nations.
Cough syrups made in India
have been linked to child
deaths in several countries in
recent years, including Gambia,
Uzbekistan, and Cameroon. In
2022, more than 70 children
died in Gambia after consuming
a syrup imported from India,
and 68 more died in Uzbekistan
between 2022 and 2023. (With
inputs from agencies)
India arrests drugmaker after toxic cough syrup kills 21 children
INDIA announced on last week that it will upgrade
its technical mission in Afghanistan to a full em
bassy, signalling a cautious but significant shift in
New Delhi’s engagement with the Taliban adminis
tration. The announcement came as Afghanistan’s
Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met his Indi
an counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in New
Delhi during his six-day visit.
Jaishankar said India’s technical mission in Kabul,
which has been operating since 2022 to oversee humani
tarian aid and limited trade activities, will now function
as the Embassy of India. “I am pleased to announce today
the upgrading of India’s Technical Mission in Kabul to the
status of Embassy of India,” he told Muttaqi.
Russia remains the only country to have officially
recognised the Taliban government since its takeover of
Afghanistan in August 2021. However, several nations,
including China, Iran, Pakistan, Turkey and Russia,
maintain embassies in Kabul. India had withdrawn most
of its diplomats and shut down its large embassy after
the Taliban seized power, citing security concerns.
Muttaqi’s visit — the first by a senior Taliban leader to
India since 2021 — was cleared after the United Nations
Security Council granted him a temporary travel waiver,
as he remains under UN sanctions. His trip is being
closely watched by neighbouring Pakistan, which has
had strained relations with the Taliban over border is
sues and militant activity.
During their meeting, Jaishankar said both India and
Afghanistan shared a commitment to “growth and pros
perity,” but added that such goals were endangered by
the “shared threat of cross-border terrorism.” He also
thanked Kabul for its “solidarity with us in the aftermath
of the Pahalgam terrorist attack,” which killed 26 peo
ple, mostly Hindu pilgrims, in Indian-administered
Kashmir in April. India accused Pakistan of backing the
assault, an allegation Islamabad denies.
Muttaqi, in his remarks, described India as a “close
friend” and thanked New Delhi for its humanitarian as
sistance following the deadly earthquake in Afghanistan
in September. “We will not allow any group to threaten
anyone else or use the territory of Afghanistan against
others,” he said.
India said Kabul had offered mining opportunities to
Indian firms as part of efforts to deepen trade. “We have
a shared interest in boosting trade and commerce,” Jais
hankar said. “Your invitation to Indian companies to
explore mining opportunities in Afghanistan is also
deeply appreciated.”
While the move represents a diplomatic upgrade, ana
lysts said New Delhi remains cautious about offering
formal recognition to the Taliban government. “India is
not in a hurry to provide diplomatic recognition to the
Taliban,” said Rakesh Sood, India’s former ambassador
to Kabul.
Harsh Pant, head of foreign policy studies at the Ob
server Research Foundation, said India’s engagement
with the Taliban was driven partly by pragmatism and
regional security considerations. “Engagement does not
mean endorsement,” he said. “There are many things
that India is uncomfortable about — minority rights,
gender rights, and the human rights landscape in Af
ghanistan. But there is pragmatism inherent in India’s
approach, and this visit signals the beginning of a new
phase in relations.”
Muttaqi said the Taliban administration would also
send diplomats to New Delhi as the two sides aimed to
restore “normalcy” in relations.
On Saturday, Muttaqi visited the Darul Uloom Deoband
seminary in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh — one of the most
influential Islamic institutions in South Asia. He ex
pressed hope for stronger ties between India and Af
ghanistan. “I am thankful for such a grand welcome and
the affection shown by the people here. I hope that India-
Afghanistan ties advance further,” he told reporters.
The visit drew attention amid criticism over the ab
sence of women journalists from his press conference in
New Delhi a day earlier. The seminary, however, said
there were no restrictions on women journalists cover
ing its events.
Muttaqi’s visit and India’s decision to reopen its em
bassy underline a delicate recalibration of ties, as both
sides navigate a shifting regional landscape shaped by
tensions with Pakistan and China’s growing influence in
Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)
New Delhi reopens Kabul
embassy after three years
MOVE MARKS CAUTIOUS THAW IN INDIA–AFGHANISTAN TIES AMID REGIONAL STRAINS
INDIA and Canada
agreed on Monday to a
new roadmap for their
relationship after nearly
two years of strained ties
following the killing of
Canadian Sikh separa
tist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The agreement came
after Canadian Foreign
Minister Anita Anand
met Indian Prime Minis
ter Narendra Modi and
her counterpart Sub
rahmanyam Jaishankar
in New Delhi. Both sides
said they would work
together in areas such
as critical minerals,
trade, and agricultural
value chains.
“Reviving this partner
ship will not only create
opportunities for en
hanced economic co
operation but also help
mitigate vulnerabilities
arising from shifting
global alliances,” a joint
statement said.
Anand said both gov
ernments agreed on
“the importance of ele
vating the relationship,”
as the two countries
seek to diversify trade
away from the United
States amid new tariff
pressures. Relations be
tween New Delhi and
Ottawa deteriorated
sharply in 2023 after
then–Prime Minister
Justin Trudeau accused
India of involvement in
Nijjar’s killing, a claim
India strongly denied.
Ties began to thaw this
year when Trudeau’s
successor, Mark Carney,
met Modi at the G7
summit in Alberta.
India and
Canada
reach accord
© X/@DrSJaishankar
PRAGMATIC MOVE:
Amir Khan Muttaqi
meets external affairs
minister Subrahmanyam
Jaishankar in New Delhi
during his six-day visit
© iStock
TOXIC TRAIL: Sresan Pharma owner
S Ranganathan is escorted by police
to a local court after the firm’s Coldrif
cough syrup was linked to the deaths
of several children in Madhya Pradesh
© Reuters
NEWLY confirmed US Ambas
sador to India Sergio Gor met
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
in New Delhi on Saturday,
marking his first official en
gagement since taking office.
The meeting focused on trade,
defense, technology, and criti
cal minerals as both sides work
to reset relations strained in re
cent months.
“We just finished an incredi
ble meeting with Prime Minister
Modi where we discussed bilat
eral issues including defense,
trade, and technology,” Gor said
in a statement issued by the US
Embassy. “We also discussed
the importance of critical min
erals to both of our nations. I
am optimistic about the days
ahead for both of our nations.”
Modi said he was “glad” to
meet Gor and wished him suc
cess in his tenure. “I am confi
dent that his tenure will further
strengthen the India-US com
prehensive global strategic
partnership,” the prime minis
ter posted on X.
Gor, a close ally of President
Donald Trump, also met Exter
nal Affairs Minister Subrah
manyam Jaishankar, Foreign
Secretary Vikram Misri, and
National Security Advisor Ajit
Doval during his first full day in
the capital.
Relations between Washing
ton and New Delhi have been
tense amid disputes over tariffs,
visa fees, and India’s purchase
of Russian oil. Trump has im
posed some of the world’s high
est tariffs on Indian goods and
criticized New Delhi’s continued
energy trade with Moscow,
which the US says helps fund
the war in Ukraine.
Despite those challenges,
both leaders have recently ad
opted a more conciliatory tone.
Modi called Trump earlier this
week to congratulate him on
“the success of the historic Ga
za peace plan,” calling the
United States a “close friend
and natural partner.”(With in
puts from agencies)
Trump’s new envoy to India meets Modi
THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA has
announced that assembly elections in Bihar
state will be held in two phases, with polling
on November 6 and 11 and counting of votes
on November 14. The entire process will con
clude by November 16.
“Bihar elections will be held in two phases on
November 6 and 11. Counting of votes will be done
on November 14,” Chief Election Commissioner
Gyanesh Kumar said at a press conference, describ
ing the exercise as the “mother of all elections.”
In the first phase, 121 assembly constituencies
will go to polls, followed by voting in 122 constitu
encies in the second phase. Bihar’s 243-member
assembly includes two seats reserved for Sched
uled Tribes and 38 for Scheduled Castes. The term
of the current assembly ends on November 22.
For the first phase, the last date for filing nomi
nations is October 17, scrutiny will be held on
October 18, and the last date for withdrawal is
October 20. For the second phase, nominations
can be filed until October 20, scrutiny will take
place on October 21, and the deadline for with
drawal is October 23.
The Election Commission said the counting of
postal ballots must be completed before the last
two rounds of vote counting.
Nomination process begins for second phase
In Patna, officials said the filing of nomination
papers for 122 assembly seats that will go to polls
in the second phase began Monday with the Elec
tion Commission issuing its notification for voting
on November 11.
Candidates can submit their nominations until
October 20, and the final list will be released after
withdrawals close on October 23.
Modi’s financial push ahead of polls
The announcement of the election schedule fol
lows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent move
to transfer $845 million (75 billion rupees) to
women in Bihar under a new employment plan
launched by his ruling National Democratic Alli
ance (NDA).
Addressing women via video link on September
26, Modi said 7.5 million women had already
joined the initiative, with 10,000 rupees deposited
into their bank accounts.
The program aims to support women’s employ
ment in small-scale ventures such as agriculture,
handicrafts, and other sectors.
Beneficiaries will also be eligible for additional
financial assistance of up to 200,000 rupees in
later phases.
“I see millions of women on the screen, and
their blessings are a great source of strength for all
of us,” Modi said during his address.
Women have become an increasingly influential
voting bloc in Bihar, with higher turnout than men
in recent elections. Political parties across the
spectrum have intensified efforts to attract female
voters, who are seen as crucial to electoral success
in the state.
High-stakes contest
The upcoming Bihar polls are expected to be a key
test for Modi’s NDA, which is seeking to retain
power in one of India’s poorest but politically sig
nificant states. The alliance faces a challenge from
the opposition Congress and its regional allies.
Bihar, India’s third most populous state, often
serves as a political bellwether alongside Uttar
Pradesh and Maharashtra.
The results will also be closely watched nation
ally as Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party navigates
one of the most challenging phases of his 11
years in office, following the loss of its outright
majority in last year’s national election. (With in
puts from agencies)
Bihar elections to be held
in two phases next month
POLLS SEEN AS KEY TEST FOR MODI’S ALLIANCE AS WOMEN VOTERS EMERGE AS DECISIVE BLOC
India
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
09
HIGH STAKES: Chief
election commissioner
Gyanesh Kumar
announces Bihar poll
dates at a press
conference in New Delhi
PERSONAL TOUCH: Sergio Gor presents Narendra
Modi with a signed photo from Trump saying, “Mr PM,
you are great”
© X/@narendramodi
Feature
www.indiaweekly.biz • October, 2025
10
IN MAY 2025, Washingtonian magazine released its annual
list of the 500 Most Influential People in Washington, high
lighting those who shape major policy debates from outside
the government. Among them were ten Indian Americans
whose work spans healthcare, climate, technology, national
security, and global trade.
The names include Neera Tanden, head of the Center for Amer
ican Progress, who continues to lead debates on economic invest
ments and social policies; Kavita Patel, physician and former Oba
ma health official, who has defended the Affordable Care Act; and
Ruchi Bhowmik, Netflix’s vice president of public policy, who is
engaged in regulatory issues affecting the streaming industry.
Also on the list are figures like Atul Keshap of the US–India Busi
ness Council and Karan Bhatia of Google, reflecting the broad areas
where Indian Americans are playing leading roles in Washington.
Neera Tanden
Neera Tanden, president and CEO of the Center for American Pro
gress (CAP), returned to the think tank after serving in the Biden
administration. She has resumed her role as a progressive voice,
countering Republican-led proposals on Medicaid and pressing for
middle-class economic measures such as a higher minimum wage.
Tanden stresses the need to show voters the effects of policies like
proposed Medicaid cuts and continues to focus on presenting alter
natives to the status quo.
Kavita Patel
Kavita Patel, a physician at Mary’s Center and a former Obama health
official, has long defended the Affordable Care Act (ACA). She said
the ACA “cannot be undone by a White House pen,” underlining the
law’s continuing role in American healthcare. Patel works on expand
ing access to care and providing support to underserved populations,
drawing on her experience as both a clinician and policymaker.
Anand Parekh
Anand Parekh, chief medical adviser at the Bipartisan Policy Center,
has helped restart the House Congressional Primary Care Caucus.
Using his background in medicine and public health, Parekh pushes
lawmakers to reinvest in prevention, public health, and primary
care as key to improving population health nationwide. He earlier
served as deputy assistant secretary of health.
Jay Khosla
Jay Khosla, Humana’s chief government affairs officer, previously
worked in Senate Republican leadership. At Humana, he now helps
shape federal healthcare and economic strategy from the private
sector, combining his knowledge of legislative processes with cor
porate planning.
Ruchi Bhowmik
Ruchi Bhowmik, vice president of public policy at Netflix, leads the
company’s engagement with governments on matters such as
streaming regulation, net neutrality, copyright, and data privacy.
She draws on her policy experience from the Obama administration
to address regulatory challenges affecting content and technology
both in the United States and abroad.
Atul Keshap
Atul Keshap, president of the US–India Business Council (USIBC) at
the US Chamber of Commerce, has been active in urging India to
pursue more ambitious reforms in taxation, regulatory processes,
and business frameworks. After India’s 2024 elections, he empha
sized the importance of these reforms to strengthen India’s global
competitiveness and attract investment.
Samir Kapadia
Samir Kapadia, managing principal of the Vogel Group, is noted for
his expertise in steel tariffs and trade policy. He advises multina
tional companies on trade compliance and helps them manage
complex international trade issues.
Nitin Chadda
Nitin Chadda, co-founder of WestExec Advisors and vice chairman
at Teneo, works in national security and technology strategy. He
advises defense and technology clients on federal engagement. Be
fore co-founding WestExec, Chadda was senior advisor for strategy
to Secretary of Defense Ash Carter and held positions at the White
House and the State Department.
Karan Bhatia
Karan Bhatia, Google’s vice president of Government Affairs and
Public Policy, oversees a team that operates in more than 50 coun
tries. As adviser to the company’s CEO, he helps guide discussions
on technology regulation, artificial intelligence governance, and
digital rights.
He previously served as Deputy US Trade Representative and
worked in senior roles in the Bush administration.
Radhika Fox
Radhika Fox, now principal at North Star Strategy, earlier led the
Environmental Protection Agency’s water program. She played a
central role in developing the water component of the Bipartisan
Infrastructure Law, securing a $50 billion federal appropriation.
That investment was the largest single federal commitment to wa
ter infrastructure, including efforts to remove lead pipes. Fox now
advises executives on environmental policy matters.
These ten Indian Americans highlight the influence of the Indian
diaspora in Washington. Their contributions span health, econom
ic policy, environment, technology, national security, and
international trade.
Indian Americans shaping
policy across Washington
TEN ACHIEVERS RESHAPE DEBATES ON HEALTHCARE, ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT
INFLUENCE NETWORK:
(Clockwise from this
image) Neera Tanden;
Kavita Patel; Anand
Parekh; Ruchi Bhowmik;
and Jay Khosla
Gallery
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
11
Central Jersey comes
alive with Garba beats
THE Indo-American Cultural Foundation of Cen
tral Jersey (IACFNJ) brought festive cheer to Mid
dlesex County with its Grand Navratri Garba cele
brations held on September 20 and 27, 2025, at
Monroe Township High School.
The vibrant two-day event drew hundreds from
across Central Jersey—Monroe, North and South
Brunswick, Franklin Park, Somerset, Princeton, and
beyond. Dressed in dazzling chaniya cholis and
kediyus, participants of all ages swirled to the
rhythm of Garba, Dandiya Raas, and Sanedo, cele
brating Goddess Amba Maa with traditional Aarti
and prayers. Garba, the rhythmic dance form rooted
in Gujarat’s devotion to Goddess Durga, has be
come a cultural bridge for Indian Americans, who
now celebrate Navratri across the US with the same
passion seen back home. The event’s divine décor,
live band by Mahesh Mehta, and the community’s
joyous spirit once again reaffirmed IACFNJ’s role in
preserving Indian heritage in New Jersey.
DIVINE DANCE: Participants dressed in colourful chaniya
cholis and kediyus dance to Garba and Dandiya beats
during the Indo-American Cultural Foundation of Central
Jersey’s Navratri celebrations in Monroe Township
Glamour and celebration
sweep through October
FROM festive celebrations and fashion runways to film launches and star-studded events, October brought a dazzling lineup of Bollywood’s finest appearances. Celebrities lit up Mumbai
and beyond, blending cinema, style, and celebration in every frame.
Gallery
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
12
Salman Khan walks
the runway for
designer Vikram
Phadnis in Mumbai
Images © Getty Images
Farhan Akhtar, Nick Jonas,
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
and Anjula Acharia attend
the Diwali Ball in New York
Akshay Kumar and Malaika
Arora join Manish Malhotra
for Pitch to Get Rich
Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter
attend the Homebound screening
with director Neeraj Ghaywan
The cast of De De Pyaar De 2
launches the film’s trailer in Mumbai
Amitabh Bachchan greets fans
outside his Mumbai residence
on his 83rd birthday
Alia Bhatt and Rani Mukerji
take part in Durga Puja
celebrations in Mumbai
Ayushmann Khurrana and
Shraddha Kapoor unveil the
Thamma trailer in Mumbai
UK prime minister Keir
Starmer meets Rani Mukerji
during his visit to YRF Studios
RAKESH MALHOTRA,
founder of The Global In
dian Diaspora Foundation
(GIDF), has called on Indi
an Americans to move be
yond symbolic gestures
and play a more active
role in strengthening the
India-US relationship.
Writing on X, Malhotra
cautioned that short-term
political interests and mis
information could weaken
the partnership between
the two nations.
He said the Indian dias
pora, with roots in both
countries, has a responsi
bility to participate mean
ingfully in civic life and
help shape discussions
that impact the future of
India-US ties.
Malhotra said there is
no contradiction between
supporting the United
States and taking pride in
India’s progress. “Our
commitment to America
First is not in conflict with
our pride in India’s prog
ress—it strengthens our
credibility and relevance
as a bridge between two
dynamic democracies,” he
wrote. “It is our duty to
speak out whenever short-
term politics or misinfor
mation threatens to weak
en the longstanding rela
tionship between these
two nations.”
Malhotra encouraged
Indian Americans to get
involved in local govern
ment and policy decisions.
“Moving beyond symbol
ism and becoming in
volved in local govern
ment, county, village, and
city-level decisions is es
sential. It’s not just about
making our voices heard,
but ensuring that our per
spectives are reflected in
policies that shape our
shared future,” he said.
He added, “We must
become more than just
passive observers—we
must actively contribute to
shaping the direction of
the countries we call
home.” According to him,
such engagement would
help keep the India-US
partnership “strong, resil
ient, and capable of navi
gating the challenges of
the 21st century.”
Malhotra’s remarks
come as Indian Americans
continue to balance their
dual identities. The com
munity’s evolving role
now involves maintaining
cultural roots while up
holding American values.
Suhag Shukla, co-found
er of the Hindu American
Foundation, said, “Indian
Americans are not mouth
pieces for any Indian gov
ernment or political party.”
She said Indian Americans,
as US citizens, must priori
tize national interests
while offering a balanced
view of India. “Just as In
dia’s citizens prioritize
their country’s national in
terests, American citizens,
including Indian Ameri
cans, have a duty to pursue
their own,” Shukla said.
Indian diaspora urged to act beyond symbolism
Papa John’s debuts
with Bengaluru outlets
PIZZA CHAIN BRINGS SIGNATURE RECIPES AND LOCAL FLAVOURS TO INDIA
Business
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
13
INDIAN exporters
are struggling
with steep US
tariffs imposed
earlier this year,
even as the gov
ernment contin
ues to deliberate
over relief meas
ures without fi
nalizing any
support plan.
Businesses have
appealed re
peatedly for
help, but officials
say the focus re
mains on long-
term structural
reforms rather
than immedi
ate assistance.
The finance
and commerce
ministries have
held meetings
with exporters
from affected
sectors to assess
losses and ex
plore temporary
relief similar to
the Covid-19 re
sponse. However,
fiscal caution
and internal dif
ferences have
delayed action.
“The government
did provide free
foodgrains dur
ing Covid, but the
larger focus then
too was on re
forms for the
long-term — cre
ating an Aat
maNirbhar
Bharat. Now also,
there have been
discussions on
what reforms
can be pursued
given the cir
cumstances, with
an eye on the
medium to long
term,” a senior
official said.
The tariffs im
posed under the
International
Emergency Eco
nomic Powers
Act during Don
ald Trump’s
presidency have
sharply affected
Indian trade. Of
the $87 billion
worth of goods
exported to the
US in 2024-25,
nearly 55 percent
are now impact
ed. The situation
worsened in Au
gust when an
additional 25
percent “Russian
penalty” tariff
was introduced
due to India’s
oil imports
from Moscow.
The Com
merce Ministry
has proposed
allowing Spe
cial Economic
Zone (SEZ) units
to sell in the
domestic mar
ket and conduct
reverse job work,
but the Finance
Ministry re
mains cautious.
US tariffs squeeze
Indian exporters
PAPA John’s has launched its first restau
rants in India, opening four outlets in Ben
galuru as part of its partnership with master
franchisee PJP Foods India Private Limited,
a joint venture between PJP Investments
Group and Ambrosia QSR. The stores are lo
cated in Indiranagar, Hennur, Electronic
City, and Sarjapur Road, marking the brand’s
entry into the Indian market with plans for
nationwide expansion.
The brand’s entry brings its global promise of
“Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.” to Indian con
sumers. A central Quality Control Center (QCC) in
Hennur will support all Bengaluru restaurants, pre
paring Papa Johns’ signature fresh dough daily to
maintain quality and consistency across outlets.
To mark the launch, Papa Johns collaborated
with actor, influencer, and content creator Danish
Sait, who appears in a promotional video introduc
ing the brand to Indian audiences.
“This is a proud moment for us as we deliver the
Papa Johns experience to Indian customers. Our
pizzas are crafted with fresh, never-frozen dough,
premium toppings, and a focus on consistent qual
ity. We are confident that this approach, combined
with an experience centered on customer satisfac
tion, will create strong appeal in India. Bengaluru is
a fitting city to begin this journey, and we look for
ward to expanding rapidly across the country,” said
Tapan Vaidya, Group CEO, PJP Investments Group.
“India is one of the most dynamic foodservice
markets in the world, and we are delighted to open
our first store in Bengaluru,” said Ravi Thanawala,
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President
at Papa John’s.
“Opening both our first restaurant and a Quality
Control Center represents a strong foundation for
long-term growth and ensures we continue to de
liver the highest standards of quality and service
that define our brand.”
“We are excited with our partnership with PJP to
bring Papa Johns to this thriving market and pre
sent specially crafted pizzas to appeal to diverse
Indian palate,” said Vish Narain, Managing Partner,
Pulsar Capital and Chairman, Ambrosia QSR. “Our
endeavor would be to provide excellent quality piz
zas at affordable prices.”
Papa Johns’ India menu blends the brand’s inter
national favorites with local innovations. Every
pizza is prepared using fresh dough made from six
ingredients, tomato sauce made with a mix of Naati
and Californian tomatoes, and real mozzarella
cheese. The Bengaluru menu also includes a city-
exclusive Ghee Roast Pizza, available in both chick
en and paneer variants. Inspired by the traditional
South Indian dish, the pizza combines slow-roasted
spices with ghee.
Alongside this local addition, Papa John’s is of
fering its global bestsellers paired with its signature
Special Garlic Sauce, a popular item in its interna
tional outlets. Customers can choose from a range
of vegetarian and chicken options across dine-in
and takeaway formats, with delivery services to fol
low soon.
The launch marks a significant step in Papa
Johns’ international growth strategy. The company
aims to bring its signature pizza experience to In
dian consumers while maintaining its emphasis on
fresh ingredients and quality control.
Papa Johns was founded in 1984 in the United
States and is now the world’s third-largest pizza
delivery company, with around 6,000 restaurants in
about 50 countries and territories. The brand con
tinues to expand globally while staying focused on
its original goal: “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.”
FRESH SLICE: Executives and
partners inaugurate Papa John’s
first Indian outlet in Bengaluru
TRADE STRAIN: The tariffs
imposed under the
International Emergency
Economic Powers Act
during have sharply
affected Indian trade
© iStock
CIVIC CALL: Rakesh Malhotra
said there is no contradiction
between supporting the
United States and taking
pride in India’s progress
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US PRESIDENT Donald Trump
last week announced a deal
with AstraZeneca that he said
would reduce drug prices in the
United States in exchange for
delaying new tariffs on the Brit
ish pharmaceutical company.
The agreement follows a
similar accord with Pfizer an
nounced last month. Under the
deal, AstraZeneca will offer
“Most Favored Nation” pricing
to Medicaid, meaning it will
match the lowest prices
charged for its medicines in
other high-income countries.
Officials said the company
also agreed to join a new web
site called TrumpRx, which
will allow Americans to buy
drugs directly at reduced pric
es. Mehmet Oz, head of the
Centers for Medicare and Med
icaid Services, said AstraZene
ca would provide heavily dis
counted drugs for lung disease
as part of the arrangement.
In return, the Trump admin
istration will delay new tariffs
on AstraZeneca for three years.
The company had earlier
pledged to invest $50 billion in
the United States amid con
cerns over potential trade mea
sures. “Most of our products
are locally manufactured, but
we need to transfer the remain
ing part to this country,” Astra
Zeneca CEO Pascal Soriot said
at a White House event with
Trump and other officials.
The announcement comes
after Trump’s September
30 agreement with Pfizer,
which also included three-year
tariff relief.
Drug prices remain a major
political issue in the United
States, though the impact of
recent measures is still uncer
tain. Shares of Pfizer and
other pharmaceutical firms
rose after last month’s an
nouncement, suggesting inves
tors expect limited profit ef
fects. “From a company per
spective, you have more visibil
ity going forward,” said CFRA
Research analyst Sel Hardy. He
added that it was too early to
gauge the overall impact of the
administration’s policies, which
include upcoming negotiations
on 15 major drugs in November
under a 2022 law. (With inputs
from agencies)
Trump delays AstraZeneca tariffs in exchange for cheaper drugs
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump’s decision to sharply
increase H-1B visa fees is prompting American com
panies to consider moving more high-value work to
India. Economists and industry experts say the
move could speed up the growth of global capability
centers (GCCs) that manage operations such as fi
nance, technology, and research and development.
India is home to about 1,700 GCCs, more than half the
global total. These centers, which started as back-office
support units, now play a major role in product design,
innovation, and other specialized areas, including auto
motive design and pharmaceutical research.
Rising visa costs and tightening rules are forcing US
firms to review their hiring and labor strategies. Many
are now turning to India-based GCCs, which combine
global talent with local leadership and can handle criti
cal business functions.
“GCCs are uniquely positioned for this moment. They
serve as a ready in-house engine,” said Rohan Lobo,
partner and GCC industry leader at Deloitte India. He
said several US firms are already reassessing workforce
plans. “Plans are already underway,” he added, pointing
to increased activity in financial services and technology
sectors, especially among companies involved in US
federal contracts.
Lobo said he expected GCCs in India to “take on more
strategic, innovation-led mandates” over time.
Earlier this month, Trump raised the cost of new H-1B
visa applications to $100,000, from the earlier range of
$2,000 to $5,000. The move adds pressure on American
companies that depend on foreign skilled workers to fill
key roles.
Separately, US senators this week reintroduced a bill
to tighten H-1B and L-1 visa programs, saying it aims to
close loopholes and prevent misuse by large employers.
If these curbs remain, industry experts say more US
firms will shift advanced work related to artificial intel
ligence, product development, cybersecurity, and ana
lytics to their India-based GCCs. Many companies prefer
keeping such work in-house through GCCs rather than
outsourcing it to third-party vendors.
“There is a sense of urgency,” said Lalit Ahuja, found
er and CEO of ANSR, which has helped companies such
as FedEx, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Target, and Lowe’s set
up their GCCs in India.
Firms revisit India plans
Ramkumar Ramamoorthy, former managing director of
Cognizant India, said the new visa rules could trigger
“extreme offshoring” in some cases. He noted that the
COVID-19 pandemic had already shown that critical
technology work could be done from anywhere.
US government data shows that Amazon, Microsoft,
Apple, Google parent Alphabet, JPMorgan Chase, and
Walmart are among the largest sponsors of H-1B visas. All
of them have major operations in India but declined to
comment because of the political sensitivity of the issue.
“Either more roles will move to India, or corporations
will near-shore them to Mexico or Colombia. Canada
could also take advantage,” said the India head of a retail
GCC. Even before the new fee hike and plans for a selec
tion process favoring higher-paid roles, India was pro
jected to host GCCs for more than 2,200 companies by
2030, with a total market size nearing $100 billion. “This
whole ‘gold rush’ will only get accelerated,” Ahuja said.
Cautious outlook amid policy risks
Some companies remain cautious and are adopting a
“wait and watch” approach.
They are concerned about the proposed HIRE Act,
which would impose a 25 per cent tax on US companies
outsourcing work overseas. The measure could disrupt
India’s services exports and alter outsourcing strategies.
“For now, we are observing and studying, and being
ready for outcomes,” said the India head of a US drug
maker’s GCC.
Trade tensions between India and the United States
have extended from goods to services. Visa restrictions
and the proposed outsourcing tax could affect India’s
cost advantage and slow the flow of cross-border ser
vices. India’s $283 billion information technology indus
try, which contributes nearly 8 per cent of the country’s
GDP, may feel some impact. However, growing demand
for GCC services could offset part of the pressure.
“Lost revenues from H-1B visa reliant businesses
could be somewhat supplanted by higher services ex
ports through GCCs, as US-based firms look to bypass
immigration restrictions to outsource talent,” Nomura
analysts said in a research note last week. (With inputs
from Reuters)
RISING COSTS RESHAPE GLOBAL HIRING AND STRENGTHEN INNOVATION NETWORKS
Business
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
15
Visa curbs spur US firms
to build India centres
AN EMPLOYEE of a US-
based company said he
and several others in In
dia were abruptly fired
during a four-minute
online meeting, sparking
outrage on social media.
The worker shared his
experience on Reddit,
saying he received a
sudden calendar invite
for a mandatory meet
ing with the company’s
COO. “He joined at 11:01,
disabled everyone’s
cameras and mics, and
casually let us know they
had ‘made the difficult
decision of letting most
of their Indian workforce
go,’” the employee
wrote. The COO said the
move was due to inter
nal restructuring and not
performance issues.
According to the post,
affected employees
were told they would re
ceive follow-up emails
with details. The worker
said the announcement
ended without any op
portunity for questions,
leaving staff “shocked
and unprepared.” He
added that October’s
salary would be paid at
the end of the month
and unused leave would
be encashed.
The post drew wide
reactions online, with us
ers criticizing the “brutal”
handling of the layoffs
and offering words of
support and job refer
rals. Several shared sim
ilar experiences and
called for stronger labor
protections for re
mote employees.
The layoffs come amid
growing debate over US
visa policy changes and
rising concerns about
global job security.
Indian staff
fired over
video call
TALENT SHIFT: Employees
of Indian IT services
exporter LTIMindtree work
inside its office in Bengaluru
© Reuters
© iStock
PHARMA PACT: US president Donald Trump speaks
at the White House during an event announcing a
deal to lower drug prices, attended by senior
officials and AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot
© Reuters
APPLE is facing a lawsuit in a Califor
nia federal court from two neurosci
entists who allege the company ille
gally used copyrighted books to train
its Apple Intelligence artificial intelli
gence model.
Susana Martinez-Conde and Ste
phen Macknik, professors at SUNY
Downstate Health Sciences University
in Brooklyn, filed a proposed class-ac
tion complaint on Thursday claiming
Apple relied on “shadow libraries”
filled with pirated books to develop
its AI system.
The lawsuit said Apple used data
sets containing thousands of copy
righted works scraped from the inter
net, including the professors’ own
books, Champions of Illusion: The
Science Behind Mind-Boggling Images
and Mystifying Brain Puzzles and
Sleights of Mind: What the Neurosci
ence of Magic Reveals About Our Eve
ryday Deceptions.
The complaint noted that the al
leged misuse occurred as Apple rolled
out Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI-
powered features built into iPhones,
iPads, and other devices. It added that
“the day after Apple officially intro
duced Apple Intelligence, the compa
ny gained more than $200 billion in
value — the single most lucrative day
in the history of the company.”
The professors are seeking unspeci
fied damages and a court order to pre
vent Apple from using their copyright
ed works in AI training.
The lawsuit follows similar actions
against other tech firms, as authors,
publishers, and music labels challenge
the use of protected material in AI
systems. OpenAI, Microsoft, and Meta
have all faced related lawsuits. In Au
gust, Anthropic settled a similar case
by agreeing to pay $1.5 billion to a
group of authors who claimed their
works were used without permission.
PRIME MINISTER Narendra Modi
met Qualcomm President and CEO
Cristiano R. Amon on Friday to dis
cuss India’s progress in artificial intel
ligence, innovation, and semiconduc
tor development.
“It was a wonderful meeting with
Mr. Cristiano R. Amon and discussing
India’s strides in AI, innovation and
skilling,” Modi said in a post on X. He
added that Qualcomm’s commitment
to India’s semiconductor and AI mis
sions reflected the country’s “un
matched talent and scale to build
technologies that will shape our col
lective future.”
Amon, who met Modi at the prime
minister’s official residence, said Qual
comm was looking to deepen its col
laboration with India. “Thank you PM
@narendramodi for the great conver
sation on fostering a broader partner
ship between @Qualcomm and India
in support of the IndiaAI and India
Semiconductor Missions, as well as the
transition to 6G,” Amon said on X. He
added that Qualcomm saw “opportuni
ties to develop an Indian ecosystem
across AI smartphones, PCs, smart
glasses, auto, industrial and more.”
Apple faces lawsuit for using pirated books to train AI
Modi meets Qualcomm CEO to boost AI and chip collaboration
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump last week announced
a new 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods and
threatened to cancel his planned meeting with
President Xi Jinping, reigniting a trade confronta
tion between the world’s two largest economies.
The move comes amid a growing dispute over Chi
na’s export restrictions on rare earth minerals.
Trump said the tariffs, along with new export controls
on “any and all critical software,” will take effect from
November 1. He said the measures were a direct re
sponse to what he described as China’s “extraordinarily
aggressive” actions.
“It is impossible to believe that China would have tak
en such an action, but they have, and the rest is history,”
Trump wrote on Truth Social. The announcement trig
gered sharp declines in global markets, with the Nasdaq
falling 3.6 percent and the S&P 500 dropping 2.7 percent.
Chinese goods already face tariffs of 30 percent under
previous measures imposed by Trump, while Beijing’s
retaliatory tariffs stand at 10 percent.
Rising tensions over rare earth exports
Trump first hinted at the move in a lengthy Truth Social
post earlier Friday, claiming China had sent letters to sev
eral countries outlining export controls on rare earth min
erals. These elements are essential for producing smart
phones, electric vehicles, military equipment, and renew
able energy technologies. China currently dominates
global production and processing of these materials.
“There is no way that China should be allowed to hold
the world ‘captive,’” Trump wrote, calling Beijing’s ac
tions “very hostile.”
The president’s latest remarks also cast doubt on his
upcoming meeting with Xi at the Asia-Pacific Economic
Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea later this
month. It was expected to be the first face-to-face meet
ing between the two leaders since Trump returned to
office in January.
“I was to meet President Xi in two weeks, at APEC, in
South Korea, but now there seems to be no reason to do
so,” Trump wrote.
Speaking later to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump
clarified that the meeting had not been canceled but said
its status was uncertain. “I haven’t canceled, but I don’t
know that we’re going to have it. But I’m going to be there
regardless, so I would assume we might have it,” he said.
“Lying in wait”
Trump said he did not understand why China had chosen
to act at this point, calling the move “very hostile.” He
said several other countries had reached out to the Unit
ed States expressing concern about China’s new trade
measures.
“Some very strange things are happening in China!
They are becoming very hostile,” Trump said. He ac
cused Beijing of “lying in wait” after six months of rela
tively stable relations, during which both countries had
made progress on the transfer of TikTok’s US operations
under American control, as required by law.
The renewed tensions mark a sharp reversal from re
cent efforts to stabilize trade relations. Earlier this year,
Washington and Beijing agreed to pause tit-for-tat tariffs
that had disrupted global trade. However, the truce has
remained fragile.
Broader trade disputes
The new tariffs also coincide with other trade disputes
between the two nations. On Friday, China announced it
would impose “special port fees” on ships built or operat
ed by American firms, responding to US charges intro
duced in April against Chinese-linked shipping companies.
Meanwhile, the US Federal Communications Commis
sion (FCC) said it had removed millions of listings for
banned Chinese products from online marketplaces.
“The Communist Party of China is engaged in a multi-
prong effort to insert insecure devices into Americans’
homes and businesses,” FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr
said on X.
Trump’s comments mark a return to the aggressive
trade stance he took during his first term. Earlier this
week, he said he would press Xi on increasing US soy
bean imports, a key issue for American farmers who were
affected by earlier rounds of tariffs. Trump’s new tariffs
and his threat to pull out of the APEC meeting have re
newed concerns of a prolonged trade conflict. Econo
mists warn that a full-scale escalation could hit global
supply chains and raise costs for US consumers and
manufacturers alike. (With inputs from agencies)
Trump’s 100 per cent China
tariff reignites trade war
US PRESIDENT CALLS BEIJING’S EXPORT RESTRICTIONS “EXTRAORDINARILY AGGRESSIVE”
Business
www.indiaweekly.biz • October, 2025
16
ECONOMIC JOLT: Trump said the
tariffs, along with new export controls
on “any and all critical software,” will
take effect from November 1
ETHICS TEST: The lawsuit
said Apple used datasets
containing thousands of
copyrighted works
scraped from the internet
DIGITAL PUSH: Prime minister Narendra
Modi meets Qualcomm CEO Cristiano R
Amon to discuss India’s progress in
artificial intelligence and innovation
© Getty Images
© Reuters
INDIA on Monday welcomed the cease
fire agreement that brought an end to
more than two years of war in Gaza and
led to the release of the last remaining
Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Prime
Minister Narendra Modi said India sup
ports United States President Donald
Trump’s “sincere efforts” to bring peace
to the region.
With all 20 surviving hostages now back
in Israel, Modi said their freedom was “a
tribute to the courage of their families, the
unwavering peace efforts of President
Trump, and the strong resolve of Prime
Minister Netanyahu.”
“We welcome the release of all hostages
after over two years of captivity,” Modi said
on X. “We support President Trump’s sin
cere efforts to bring peace to the region.”
The handover of the hostages to the In
ternational Committee of the Red Cross in
Gaza for transfer to Israeli authorities
marked a crucial step in implementing the
ceasefire deal. Under the first phase of the
agreement, Israel is releasing nearly 2,000
Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
The ceasefire, which came into effect on
last Friday, was brokered by Trump and for
mally signed at a peace summit in the Egyp
tian Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. More
than 20 world leaders attended the summit,
with India represented by Minister of State
for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh.
In a statement, India’s Ministry of Exter
nal Affairs reiterated the country’s long-
standing support for a “negotiated two-state
solution” and said it would “support all ef
forts towards lasting peace in the region.”
President Trump, who travelled to Israel
to address its parliament, described the
ceasefire as “the dawn of a new Middle
East.” He said, “After two harrowing years
of darkness and captivity, 20 courageous
hostages are returning to the glorious em
brace of their families. A beautiful and much
brighter future appears suddenly within the
region’s reach.”
Trump added that Hamas is required to
disarm under the peace plan, though the
group has not confirmed its willingness to
comply. Bodies of some of the 26 dead hos
tages, and two others whose fate remains
unknown, will also be returned as part of
the agreement.
The Gaza conflict began on October 7,
2023, when Hamas launched attacks on Is
raeli cities, killing about 1,200 people and
taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli fig
ures. In response, Israel launched extensive
air and ground operations that, according to
Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, have
killed more than 67,000 Palestinians.
Two years of fighting have left Gaza in
ruins, with much of its population of 2.2 mil
lion displaced. The war also deepened re
gional instability, drawing in Iran-backed
groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and
the Houthis in Yemen.
Gaza’s humanitarian crisis has worsened
sharply, with widespread shortages of food,
water, and medicine. The World Health Or
ganization said last month that malnutrition
levels in Gaza have reached “alarming” levels.
Under the terms of Trump’s Gaza peace
plan, the enclave will be transformed into
a “deradicalized, terror-free zone that
does not pose a threat to its neighbors.”
The plan also outlines reconstruction meas
ures to redevelop Gaza for the benefit of its
residents, supported by international aid
and oversight.
At the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, world
leaders discussed next steps to ensure
lasting stability across the Middle East.
Trump said the peace plan aimed not only
to end hostilities in Gaza but also to “set
the foundation for a new regional frame
work of cooperation.”
India’s participation at the summit and
Modi’s endorsement of the agreement reaf
firm New Delhi’s position of supporting
diplomatic engagement and a peaceful reso
lution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
MODI PRAISES TRUMP’S ROLE IN BROKERED TRUCE ENDING TWO YEARS OF WAR
Business
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
17
India backs Gaza peace accord
NEW DAWN: US president Donald Trump
addresses Israel’s parliament, the Knesset,
in Jerusalem on October 13
© Evelyn Hockstein/Pool/Getty Images
KALYANI PRIYADARSHAN’S Lokah: Chapter 1 –
Chandra has taken the global box office by storm,
establishing itself as a landmark success not just
for Malayalam cinema but for female-led Indian
films across industries.
Directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dul
quer Salmaan, the film has captured the imagination
of audiences worldwide with its dark fantasy theme,
visual grandeur, and emotionally charged storytelling.
In its first 21 days, Lokah collected a remarkable
$15.2 million, surpassing Alia Bhatt’s Raazi ($14.8 mil
lion) to become the fourth highest-grossing female-
led Indian film in history. The film also created a new
benchmark by becoming the first South Indian fe
male-led movie to cross the $12 million milestone,
signalling a shift in audience tastes toward content-
rich cinema beyond linguistic and regional bounda
ries. Currently, Lokah holds the position of the sec
ond-highest-grossing Malayalam film ever—a record
that wouldn’t stand for long.
As its theatrical run continued, LOKAH achieved
the extraordinary feat of crossing $37 million (ap
proximately ₹300 crore) worldwide—an achievement
unprecedented for a Malayalam production and a fe
male-driven story from south India. The domestic
box office contributed about $19 million, while over
seas markets, especially the UAE, the US, and the UK,
brought in $14.6 million.
This powerful dual-market performance has pushed
Lokah beyond L2: Empuraan, making it the highest-
grossing Malayalam film of all time and placing it
among India’s top earners of 2025.
The film’s extraordinary success story is made even
more impressive considering its modest budget. Made
for around $3.6 million (₹30 crore), Lokah has gener
ated a staggering return on investment exceeding 400
per cent.
This achievement makes it one of the most profit
able Indian films of the year, proving that innovative
storytelling and strong performances can outshine
even big-budget, star-heavy productions. Analysts
now project that the film could soon surpass $39 mil
lion (₹325 crore), reflecting its sustained audience en
gagement and strong word-of-mouth publicity.
At the heart of Lokah’s appeal lies its ambitious vi
sion. The film is part of a five-movie cinematic uni
verse conceptualized by Dulquer Salmaan, designed
to interlink various mythologies, fantasy realms, and
heroic arcs in a distinctly Indian context.
In Chapter 1 – Chandra, Kalyani Priyadarshan leads
the narrative as a powerful yet vulnerable protagonist
navigating a mystical world torn between divine forc
es and human frailty. Her performance has been
widely praised for balancing emotional depth with a
commanding screen presence, reaffirming her posi
tion as one of the most versatile actors in South In
dian cinema today.
The upcoming sequel, Lokah: Chapter 2, will report
edly feature Tovino Thomas in the lead role, expand
ing on the universe hinted at in the first film. Dulquer
Salmaan will headline the third instalment, while
Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty is expected to
take center stage in the fourth.
The fifth and final film will bring together all
the major characters in what promises to be one of
India’s most ambitious cinematic crossovers—a bold
experiment reminiscent of Hollywood’s intercon
nected film franchises but deeply rooted in Indian
mythology and storytelling.
Beyond its box office triumph, Lokah’s success sym
bolizes the growing influence of regional cinema in
the global entertainment landscape. Once confined to
linguistic and geographical boundaries, Malayalam
cinema has now emerged as a force that blends artis
tic integrity with commercial viability. Films like Lok
ah demonstrate how regional industries can redefine
mainstream Indian cinema by combining rich cultural
narratives with global production standards. Moreo
ver, Lokah has opened a new chapter for women-led
stories in Indian cinema. Kalyani Priyadarshan’s com
manding performance and the film’s resounding suc
cess challenge the long-standing notion that large-
scale blockbusters depend on male-driven narratives.
It’s a landmark achievement that echoes the evolving
preferences of modern audiences—ones that cele
brate character-driven storytelling, inclusivity, and
artistic innovation.
Meanwhile, Alia Bhatt, who once held the female-
led box office record with Raazi, continues to be a
powerhouse in Bollywood with her upcoming big-
budget ventures, including Aditya Chopra’s Alpha and
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War. Yet, the triumph of
Lokah signals a changing cinematic landscape—one
where regional voices, fresh narratives, and diverse
representation are redefining the parameters of suc
cess. In essence, Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is not just
a film—it’s a cultural milestone. It marks the rise of
Malayalam cinema as a global storytelling force and
celebrates the power of a woman-led narrative break
ing barriers across industries. As Lokah continues to
soar, it carries with it a new vision for Indian cinema—
one that’s fearless, inclusive, and universally resonant.
Entertainment
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
18
Box-office glory for
Malayalam film Lokah
THE much-awaited trailer of Thamma
has unveiled a thrilling new chapter in
Maddock Films’ celebrated horror-
comedy universe, starring Ayushmann
Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and
Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
The film promises a unique mix of
romance, fear, and humor, introducing
a vampire saga that expands the world
established by Stree, Bhediya, Mun
jya, and Stree 2. Set for a grand Diwali
release on October 21, Thamma looks
poised to be one of the season’s big
gest entertainers.
Directed by Amar Kaushik and pro
duced by Dinesh Vijan, Thamma
marks Ayushmann Khurrana’s first
venture into the horror genre. Known
for his versatility and socially rooted
roles, Ayushmann steps into a new ter
ritory where love and terror collide.
The trailer teases his character’s
emotional journey as he falls for Rash
mika Mandanna’s mysterious role
while confronting the chilling menace
of Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Yakshasan
— a ruthless vampire with ancient
roots and dark charm.
The film’s launch event, aptly titled
“Thammakedaar,” took place in Mum
bai and drew huge attention from fans
and media.
Shraddha Kapoor, the leading face
of Stree, made a surprise appearance
to show her support, symbolically
linking Thamma to the larger super
natural world of Maddock’s horror-
comedy universe. The event featured
interactive performances, eerie set de
signs, and glowing crimson visuals
that hinted at the movie’s gothic yet
playful tone.
The trailer offers a glimpse of a
small Indian town caught between ro
mance and bloodlust, with Ayush
mann and Rashmika’s chemistry serv
ing as the emotional anchor. Nawa
zuddin’s portrayal of Yakshasan, with
his signature intensity and sly humor,
adds gravitas to the narrative.
His haunting presence contrasts
beautifully with the film’s come
dic beats, creating a blend that is
both spine-chilling and entertaining
— a hallmark of Maddock’s genre-de
fying storytelling.
For Rashmika Mandanna, Thamma
continues her streak of diverse
roles, adding a supernatural edge to
her filmography. Her character ap
pears to hold a secret that ties her
fate to both Ayushmann’s hero
and Nawazuddin’s vampire, promis
ing emotional depth alongside
the scares.
With Thamma, Maddock Films
further strengthens its horror-comedy
franchise, pushing boundaries by
blending Indian folklore, dark fanta
sy, and modern relationships.
As the trailer trends across social
media, fans are already calling it
one of the most exciting crossovers
in contemporary Bollywood —
where love meets fangs, and fear
finds a heartbeat.
Thamma blends love, laughs and bloodlust on screen
KALYANI PRIYADARSHAN STARRER EARNS $37 MILLION GLOBALLY
AT NEW YORK Fashion Week
2025, New Jersey-based Indi
an-American siblings Shivangi
Gupta Singh and Shashank
Gupta unveiled their Spring-
Summer 2026 collection Sam
skriti under their label Nazra
naa, celebrating India’s spirit
ual and cultural legacy.
The 18-piece collection of
sherwanis and lehengas drew
inspiration from ancient San
skrit texts, temple architecture,
and sacred traditions, mark
ing their fourth consecutive
NYFW showcase.
Unlike their earlier fusion-
driven presentations, Samskriti
represented a heartfelt return
to roots. Shashank Gupta said
the collection stemmed from
their personal spiritual jour
neys that began in 2019, aim
ing to reconnect with the
depth of India’s heritage be
yond textbooks and family
teachings. The designs paid
tribute to revered cultural
symbols like the Mahakumbh,
Konark Sun Temple, Mount
Kailash, Tirupati Balaji, and
Varanasi’s Ganga Aarti.
A standout creation was the
showstopper lehenga featur
ing 24 hand-painted panels
inspired by Maharishi Valmi
ki’s integration of the Gayatri
Mantra into the Ramayana.
Another masterpiece captured
the grand Mahakumbh
through intricate digital prints
and embellishments. The
sherwanis reflected temple
carvings from the Meenakshi
Sundareshwara Temple,
merging craftsmanship with
modern tailoring.
The siblings’ ancestral con
nection to Varanasi was wo
ven into several pieces, with
motifs of Maa Ganga and
cityscapes symbolizing conti
nuity between tradition and
modernity. Through Samskriti,
the designers also hoped to
inspire Indian-American youth
to embrace their heritage. “We
want young people to cele
brate Diwali, attend Garba,
and feel proud of their roots,”
Shashank shared.
Founded in 2012, Nazranaa
has become a leading South
Asian bridal brand in the U.S.,
known for fusing Indian artist
ry with global aesthetics. With
Samskriti, Shivangi and
Shashank have brought In
dia’s spiritual essence to NY
FW’s global stage, redefining
what modern couture can
mean when fashion becomes
a language of cultural pride
and devotion.
India inspires
NY runway
© Instagram/@dqswayfarerfilms
HAUNTED HEARTS:
Ayushmann Khurrana
and Rashmika Mandanna
in a song from their
upcoming film Thamma
© Instagram/@rashmika_mandanna
AFTER months of specu
lation, Bollywood stars
Katrina Kaif and Vicky
Kaushal have officially
announced that they are
expecting their first child.
The couple shared the
joyous news through a
coordinated Instagram
post, dressed in white,
with Vicky gently cra
dling Katrina’s baby
bump. “On our way to
start the best chapter
of our lives with hearts
full of joy and grati
tude,” Katrina wrote in
the caption.
The post quickly went
viral, drawing an out
pouring of love from
fans and celebrities
alike. Stars including
Janhvi Kapoor, Kiara
Advani, Arjun Kapoor,
and Tamannaah Bhatia
congratulated the cou
ple in the comments,
while fans flooded social
media with heart emojis
and warm wishes.
Rumours of Katrina’s
pregnancy had been
circulating for months,
intensified by viral pho
tos and reports sug
gesting a late 2025 due
date. Sources close to
the couple have con
firmed that Katrina
plans to take a materni
ty break to focus on her
new role as a mother.
Professionally, both
actors remain in the
spotlight, Vicky Kaushal
recently appeared in
Chhaava and will star in
Love & War, while Katri
na was last seen in
Sriram Raghavan’s Mer
ry Christmas.
Entertainment
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
19
Alia creates special on-set space for daughter Raha
BOLLYWOOD star Deepika Padukone
has officially stepped away from the
much-anticipated sequel of Kalki 2898
AD. The announcement, made by Vy
jayanthi Movies on September 18,
2025, marks a significant casting
shake-up in one of India’s most ambi
tious sci-fi franchises.
The production house stated that de
spite the success of the first film, they
were “unable to find the right partner
ship” for the sequel and emphasized that
a movie of this magnitude “deserves that
commitment and much more.”
In their official statement, Vyjayanthi
Movies confirmed that after “careful con
sideration,” they decided to part ways
with the actor. The note implied that
scheduling and creative alignment were
major challenges. While the makers
thanked Deepika for her contribution to
the original film, they highlighted that the
sequel demanded complete dedication.
The news follows weeks of speculation
about Deepika’s limited availability and
her decision to scale down professional
commitments since becoming a mother.
She recently welcomed her daughter,
Dua, with husband Ranveer Singh, and
has publicly expressed her wish to raise
her child personally without compromis
ing on family time.
Sources close to the project suggest
that Triptii Dimri is being considered to
step into lead roles alongside Prabhas in
upcoming Vyjayanthi projects. However,
the production house has yet to make an
official announcement regarding the re
placement.
Deepika responds to controversy over
8-hour work demand
Shortly after her exit from Kalki 2898 AD
and Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, Deep
ika Padukone addressed the controversy
surrounding her alleged demand for an
8-hour workday. In an interview with
CNBC-TV18, she clarified that her stance
was not unreasonable, emphasizing that
male superstars have been working
8-hour shifts for years without criticism.
“By virtue of being a woman, if that’s
coming across as being pushy or demand
ing, then so be it,” she said. “It’s no secret
that a lot of male actors in the Indian film
industry have worked for eight hours a
day, Monday to Friday, for years—and it
never made headlines.”
Deepika explained that her decision to
insist on fixed working hours was linked
to creating balance in her personal life.
“The industry is called an ‘industry,’ but
we have never really worked like one,”
she said. “It’s still quite disorganized, and
I think it’s time we brought some struc
ture into this culture.”
Her remarks received both support and
criticism within the industry. While sev
eral colleagues praised her for advocating
healthier work standards, others ques
tioned whether such constraints could
affect high-budget, multi-location pro
ductions like Kalki 2898 AD.
Balancing stardom and motherhood
Deepika’s recent choices reflect a con
scious shift toward prioritizing mother
hood over relentless professional sched
ules. Sources close to the actor revealed
that she has become selective with new
projects, ensuring they allow her to spend
time with her family. Her exit from Spirit
was also reportedly linked to her refusal
to extend shooting hours or travel exten
sively during the initial months of moth
erhood. Despite stepping back from some
projects, Deepika’s career remains on an
upward trajectory. She resumed shooting
for Siddharth Anand’s King shortly after
her Kalki exit. The film features Shah
Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan, and Abhishek
Bachchan, and marks another collabora
tion between Deepika and Anand after
Pathaan. She is also set to star in Atlee’s
next, tentatively titled AA22xA6, oppo
site Allu Arjun.
Deepika Padukone’s departure from
Kalki 2898 AD sequel underscores the
growing debate over work-life balance
and gender dynamics in Indian cine
ma. As one of Bollywood’s most banka
ble stars, her decision to set boundaries—
especially in an industry known for
demanding
production
schedules—
has reignited conversations about profes
sionalism and gendered expectations in
the workplace.
While Vyjayanthi Movies prepares
to move forward with Kalki 2898 AD 2
and new faces joining the ensemble,
Deepika’s exit marks the end of a crea
tive collaboration that began with im
mense anticipation.
For the actor, however, it seems less
like a setback and more like a redefinition
of priorities—one that places personal
well-being and family above the pressures
of stardom.
Deepika departs Kalki,
cites work-life priorities
ACTOR CLARIFIES HER EIGHT-HOUR WORK STANCE AS PUSH FOR BALANCED SCHEDULES
FILMMAKER Mahesh Bhatt re
cently revealed a charming detail
about his granddaughter Raha Ka
poor, daughter of Alia Bhatt and
Ranbir Kapoor; she already has
her own vanity van on her moth
er’s film sets.
Bhatt affectionately described
the van as “like a temple,” a pris
tine, sacred space that he chose
not to enter. His revelation offers
a glimpse into how Alia Bhatt is
redefining motherhood in Bolly
wood, balancing her professional
commitments with her role as a
devoted mother.
Speaking about the setup, Ma
hesh Bhatt recalled being on set
with Alia and Amitabh Bachchan
during an ad shoot. When invited
to sit inside Raha’s vanity van, he
declined, saying he didn’t belong in
a space so pure and serene, joking
that “the old man has no place
there.” He described it as more of
a nursery than a traditional vanity
van, which is cozy, child-friendly,
and designed to make Raha com
fortable while her mother works.
The filmmaker’s comments reflect
the growing emphasis among new-
age Bollywood actresses on inte
grating family life into their careers
rather than separating the two.
Alia Bhatt, who recently took
Raha along to Milan for a Gucci
fashion event, exemplifies this new
balance. Her ability to merge work
and motherhood seamlessly has
been widely admired, especially in
an industry that once expected ac
tresses to step away from the spot
light after marriage or childbirth.
Mahesh Bhatt praised his daugh
ter’s modern approach, noting that
actresses today are “parenting
while going to work,” a shift that
marks greater freedom and flexibil
ity for women in Indian cinema.
The revelation also comes amid
a broader discussion in Bollywood
about rising celebrity demands,
from multiple vanity vans to larger
entourages. Filmmakers like Sanjay
Gupta and Anurag Kashyap have
publicly expressed concerns over
inflated production costs and logis
tical challenges caused by star re
quirements. While some produc
tions have struggled to accommo
date these demands, Alia’s ap
proach—providing a dedicated
space for her child rather than per
sonal luxury—has been viewed as
both practical and compassionate.
Veteran actors like Amitabh
Bachchan are often cited for their
simplicity, managing with minimal
staff and resources. In contrast,
many younger stars now request
multiple vans for makeup, meet
ings, and fitness purposes. Yet,
Alia Bhatt’s choice stands apart
that it highlights a maternal in
stinct rather than excess, focusing
on comfort and safety for her
daughter rather than indulgence.
Ultimately, Raha Kapoor’s per
sonalized vanity van has become
more than a behind-the-scenes cu
riosity; it symbolizes a changing
era in Bollywood. Today’s leading
actresses are rewriting norms
around motherhood and profes
sionalism, proving that nurturing
families and leading blockbuster
careers are no longer mutually ex
clusive. Through this thoughtful
gesture, Alia Bhatt embodies the
evolving spirit of modern Indian
cinema—where ambition and em
pathy coexist seamlessly.
Katrina, Vicky
to be parents
© Instagram/@deepikapadukone
CAREER RESET:
Deepika Padukone
© Instagram/@katrinakaif
MODERN MOTHERHOOD:
Alia Bhatt makes nursery
in her vanity van for
daughter Raha
© Getty Images
AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN made a
spellbinding appearance at L’Oréal Par
is’ runway show during Paris Fashion
Week 2025, joining an extraordinary
lineup of global icons including Helen
Mirren, Jane Fonda, Gillian Anderson,
and Viola Davis.
Representing Indian grace and interna
tional glamor, Aishwarya once again
proved why she remains one of Bolly
wood’s most enduring and recognized am
bassadors on the world stage. Her appear
ance wasn’t just a fashion statement—it
was a celebration of heritage, empower
ment, and timeless beauty.
For the grand occasion, Aishwarya
wore a custom-made sherwani-inspired
ensemble designed by Manish Malhotra,
one of India’s most celebrated couturi
ers. The outfit brilliantly reimagined tradi
tional menswear with a modern androgy
nous couture twist, symbolizing both
power and poise.
Featuring a raised bandhgala collar, dia
mond-studded buttons, padded shoul
ders, and a sculpted silhouette, the black
sherwani balanced structure with a fluid,
body-hugging elegance. It was paired with
flared pants and crystal-studded animal
brooches, shimmering playfully under the
runway lights and adding a touch of whim
sy to its commanding sophistication.
Completing her look with her signature
ruby red lips and glossy, cascading hair,
Aishwarya exuded regal confidence as she
walked the ramp.
Every step captured the essence of In
dian royalty blended with Parisian flair,
embodying the show’s message of cele
brating women across ages, cultures, and
backgrounds. The audience responded
with admiration as Aishwarya’s poise,
grace, and aura transformed the catwalk
into a spectacle of elegance.
Designer Manish Malhotra described
the sherwani as a “couture masterpiece
where structure meets softness” and where
“tailoring asserts power yet carries mod
ern sensuality.” His words perfectly re
flected Aishwarya’s look—one that defied
conventional fashion boundaries while
staying rooted in Indian tradition.
Over the years, she has alternated be
tween dramatic gowns and understat
ed silhouettes at Paris Fashion Week.
However, this diamond-embellished sher
wani marked a powerful evolution in her
international style journey, representing
both her boldness and her affinity for cul
tural reinterpretation.
Behind the scenes, Aishwarya shared
candid glimpses from the event on her In
stagram, posting pictures and videos with
fellow L’Oréal ambassadors and caption
ing one post: “Shine on my dear @loreal
paris family.” Her social media was flood
ed with appreciation from fans and fash
ion critics alike, who praised her for bring
ing Indian craftsmanship to one of the
world’s most influential fashion runways.
The star-studded event also featured ap
pearances by Heidi Klum, Kendall Jenner,
Andie MacDowell, and Eva Longoria, each
representing different generations and
cultures—perfectly aligned with L’Oréal’s
global campaign celebrating sisterhood,
inclusivity, and age diversity. Amid this
constellation of global icons, Aishwarya
stood out as a beacon of elegance and au
thenticity, reinforcing her status as India’s
global muse in fashion and beauty.
Her continued collaboration with
L’Oréal Paris, spanning over two decades,
has been instrumental in representing In
dian women on international beauty and
fashion platforms. With this appearance,
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan once again
bridged Bollywood and Hollywood, East
and West, tradition and modernity.
Graceful yet powerful, her Paris Fashion
Week 2025 look was more than couture—it
was a cultural moment. Through her radi
ant presence, Aishwarya reminded the
world that true beauty lies in confidence,
identity, and the courage to redefine ele
gance on your own terms.
Entertainment
www.indiaweekly.biz • October 2025
20
Aishwarya dazzles in Paris
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TIMELESS GRACE: Aishwarya
Rai Bachchan walks the run
way at L’Oréal Paris’ Le Défilé:
Liberté, Égalité, Sororité show
during Paris Fashion Week