Ahead of the highly anticipated trailer for 'Ramayana' on July 24th, Deepika Chhulhiya, who played the immortal role of Sita in Ramanagan Sagar's 'Ramayana,' openly shared her opinion on the new project. She discussed Sai Pannavi's participation in the role of Sita, and also commented on Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Arun Govil. Furthermore, she talked about how her role as Sita became her defining characteristic but simultaneously impacted her career.
In an interview with Variety India, Deepika stated that she has seen Sai Pannavi's work and considers her an outstanding actress. Nevertheless, she emphasized that it is premature to judge how well she will fit the role of Sita. She recalled that Tulsidas's description of Sita from 'Ramayana' mentions her eyes, height, hair, and appearance. Ramanagan Sagar was looking for exactly such a Sita, and he saw her in her. She added that the other actors are good if they match the character.
Deepika noted that Ramanagan Sagar's 'Ramayana' still lives in people's hearts, and this will certainly be reflected in the new film. She admitted that today she is known more by the name Sita than by her own name, and this has become her identity. Although any artist wants to play different roles, no one wishes to remain forever in one character. She warned that the influence of their 'Ramayana' will be very strong on this new film. Even after her being shown in reruns on Doordarshan during the coronavirus pandemic, the new generation saw her, and it will not be easy to erase that 'Ramayana' from people's minds. According to her memory, the original 'Ramayana' never mentioned Sita having curly hair.
Deepika explained that the immense popularity of the role of Sita turned into a problem for her. After 'Ramayana,' she stopped receiving offers, and she is still forced to ask for work. She mentioned that Ranbir Kapoor, having acted in films like 'Barfi,' 'Sanju,' and 'Animal,' is now playing Lord Rama. She noted that times have changed: previously, artists were often limited to one type of role. Now, people find it difficult to imagine her in any other role, which prompted her to move into production.
Regarding Yash, Deepika expressed confidence in his ability to convincingly play Ravana, although she stressed that the audience's emotional connection still belongs to Ramanagan Sagar's 'Ramayana.' She said she had seen some of Yash's work and is confident that he will look powerful in the role of Ravana. However, she believes it is very difficult to erase the old 'Ramayana' from people's memory. If this film were released 50 years from now, perhaps people would forget the old cast, but right now these memories are fresh.
Wishing luck to the entire film team, Deepika noted that all participants are extremely talented, and she is confident that audiences will want to watch this film at least once. She named the main strength of their 'Ramayana' as the fact that every actor perfectly matched their character. She also mentioned that the music by Ravindra Jain was an important reason for its success. The new project, directed by Nitish Tiwari, will be released in two parts. In it, Ranbir Kapoor will play Lord Rama, Sai Pannavi will play Mata Sita, and Yash will play Ravana. Besides them, Sani Deol (Hanuman), Ravi Dubey (Lakshman), Arun Govil (Dasharath), Lara Datta, Rakul Preet Singh, Kunal Kapoor, Shiba Chadha, and Adinath Kotare will also take part in important roles. This mega-project with a budget of around 4000 crore rupees has merged the music of Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman for the first time. 'Ramayana: Part 1' will be released in theaters in December 2026, and 'Part 2' in December 2027.
A critical and analytical review was conducted in Zhizakh of programs aimed at improving the quality of life of the population, modernizing mahalla infrastructure, and reducing poverty. At a meeting chaired by the region's head, Ulugbek Mustafayev, the level of effectiveness of work under the 'Initiative Budget' and mahalla-level programs was analyzed in detail, and specific mechanisms for eliminating existing problems were identified.
It was emphasized that projects formed based on citizen initiatives and selected through voting are becoming an effective tool for ensuring openness, transparency, and public control in mahallas. This approach not only expands the participation of the population in public administration but also allows for addressing the most pressing needs of the mahalla in a targeted manner.
To date, 1 trillion 100 billion sums have been allocated from the budget funds within the 'Initiative Budget,' which has allowed for the financing of thousands of projects. As a result, issues related to roads, engineering and communication networks, social facilities, and other infrastructure affecting the daily lives of the population have been resolved in stages in 241 mahallas across the region.
Practical results were analyzed at the meeting. In particular, the Khalqobod mahalla in Sharof Rashidov district has won the 'Initiative Budget' projects six times. Thanks to this, all dirt and earth roads in the mahalla have been completely renovated, creating a comfortable transport environment for residents.
Measures to reduce poverty were examined separately. The experience of the Bogishamol mahalla in Pakhtakor district was recognized as an effective model. In this mahalla, thanks to the allocation of preferential loans for heating in 100 households, the annual income of families increased several times. Furthermore, directing produced goods to export contributes to the sustainable growth of the local mahalla economy.
In this regard, all city and district heads were tasked with intensifying systematic work to increase the number of income-generating projects in each region, especially by attracting unemployed youth, citizens returning from military service, and needy families to entrepreneurial activities.
These tasks align with the priority directions established in the President's decree on the first measures to implement the 'From Poverty to Prosperity' program dated September 23, 2024. In accordance with this decree, comprehensive measures are being implemented to improve infrastructure in the most disadvantaged mahallas, ensure employment, and expand sources of income.
It was noted that 145 billion sums were allocated under this program to provide water and electricity to 58 disadvantaged mahallas in the region. These funds allowed for the commissioning of important facilities such as water supply structures, pumping units, wells, electrical networks, and transformers, significantly improving the engineering infrastructure of the mahallas.
A critical discussion was also held regarding infrastructure development based on energy-saving technologies. It was noted that the transition of wells and pumps to alternative energy sources is slower than expected. Currently, solar panels are installed in only 16 facilities, and strict targets have been set for the phased transition of all pumps to energy-saving systems. Responsible organizations have been instructed to legalize the necessary cadastral documents within one week.
Special attention was paid to programs for forming mahallas in the 'New Uzbekistan' image and developing hard-to-reach areas. 553 billion sums have been allocated in this direction for 266 facilities. Problems slowing down construction work were analyzed from both sides, and clear instructions were given to clients and local administrations on promptly identifying contractors, resolving all organizational issues in a short time, and handing over facilities for use within the established deadlines.
Following the meeting, strict requirements were set for city and district heads, industry leaders, and clients to ensure the uninterrupted execution of assigned tasks, as well as to establish constant control over the quality, deadlines, and effective use of funds at every facility.
It was concluded that the implementation of mahalla-level programs, the 'Initiative Budget,' and the 'From Poverty to Prosperity' program is becoming an important factor in the comprehensive development of territories. Importantly, this process goes beyond simple infrastructure improvement, as it contributes to expanding permanent sources of income for the population, ensuring employment, and strengthening the well-being of every family.
In anticipation of the celebration of the 35th anniversary of independence, a joyful event took place in the village of Sirdaryo, in the Pakhtakor quarter. A new state preschool educational institution designed for 150 children was solemnly commissioned there.
This project was implemented as part of the execution of the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated March 3, 2025, 'On measures for the active development of the socio-production infrastructure of the Syrdarya region.' 4 billion 600 million soums were allocated for the construction and equipping of the new kindergarten. As a result, a modern and spacious educational environment was created that meets all the necessary conditions for the comprehensive development of children.
The head of the Syrdarya district, Azizbek Turdimurodov, participated in the opening ceremony. He emphasized that the state policy on developing the system of preschool education and increasing the intellectual and spiritual potential of children is being consistently implemented in the country. Furthermore, he noted that the new kindergarten will ensure quality upbringing for children and create significant convenience for parents.
The institution is equipped with large and bright groups designed taking into account the age and interests of the children. It also has halls for music and physical culture, a medical office, a dining hall, and many rooms equipped with modern educational equipment. Modern playgrounds and green areas have been established in the district to ensure meaningful leisure and physical development for children.
According to worker Bakhtiyor Kenjaev, the commissioning of the new institution in anticipation of Independence Day was a great gift for the residents of the quarter. He expressed great joy at the opportunity to see the conditions created for their children and grandchildren. Bakhtiyor Kenjaev added that the modern kindergarten has all the possibilities for receiving a quality education and achieving healthy, full development. He particularly noted that the educators are highly qualified specialists who approach child-rearing responsibly, and he expressed gratitude to the head of state for such care and attention.
The commissioning of the new kindergarten is an important step towards expanding coverage of preschool education in the quarter, creating a modern educational environment for children, and providing additional convenience for parents.
The Arts Festival in Kleinmond (Kleinmond inniebos Kunstefees, KliK) is preparing for its return this year, promising a weekend dedicated to live music, literature, art, and local culture along the scenic Cape Whale coast. The event will run for three days, from Friday, November 27th, to Sunday, November 29th, in Kleinmond, gathering artists, writers, and performers from across the Western Cape.
Built on the success of the first event in 2025, the current program includes a mix of musical performances, storytelling, literary discussions, and creative workshops. Participants include musicians from Kleinmond Fraser Barry and Tribal Echo, who will present musical performances celebrating South African culture, the art of storytelling, and music with Afrikaans roots.
Author Hadija Hegger, born and raised in Hanover Park but now residing in Parklands, will share insights into her books 'Beyond the Delivery Room' and 'Thicker than Sorrow' during sessions at the Writers' Cafe. She will also participate in a tribute to the renowned poet Diane Ferrus alongside Fraser Barry and the writing collective Mengelmoes Digters. Visitors can attend a discussion with Professor Andries du Toit, author of 'A Blow to the Head: A History of Violence'. Du Toit, a resident of Kalk Bay who currently works at the University of the Western Cape School of Management, will examine his memoir exploring the history of violence in South Africa.
A creative writing workshop will be organized for aspiring authors, led by Colin Higgs, founder and publisher of Modjaji Books. In addition to performances and talks, visitors can attend the two-day indoor KliK market at the Kleinmond Town Hall. Local exhibitors will offer handmade goods, festive gifts, crafts, and various local delicacies.
The festival is organized by a committee representing several local organizations, including The Grail Centre, Mthimkhulu Community Development, Kleinmond Central Café, Tides Restaurant, Hangklip Kleinmond Business Forum, and Cape Cultural Collective. Tickets are available through Quicket, with early bird offers running in July and August. Those interested in participating in the KliK market can apply before Sunday, August 30th, by contacting Nidhi Karelse via WhatsApp at 072 935 1616.
