Kerala is currently facing a sharp rise in temperatures, prompting authorities to issue an orange alert in three districts—Kollam, Thrissur, and Palakkad—on April 24, 2026, at around 09:00 AM IST. The warning by the India Meteorological Department indicates that temperatures are likely to remain significantly above normal, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. The sudden spike in heat has been linked to dry weather conditions and reduced cloud cover, making the situation more intense across these regions. In response, district administrations have declared holidays for educational institutions to protect students from extreme heat exposure during peak hours. Children are among the most vulnerable groups, and this precautionary move aims to ensure their safety. Authorities have also advised the public to avoid stepping out between 11 AM and 3 PM, when temperatures are at their highest, and to stay hydrated by consuming adequate fluids. Palakkad, which is already known for higher temperatures, is expected to experience more severe heat conditions, while Kollam and Thrissur are also witnessing unusual temperature spikes. Health departments have issued advisories urging people to wear light clothing, avoid strenuous activities, and recognize early symptoms of heat stress such as dizziness and fatigue. Hospitals and health centers have been put on alert to handle potential cases. Local bodies have been directed to ensure the availability of drinking water in public places, while employers are encouraged to provide shaded rest areas for outdoor workers. With temperatures continuing to rise, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and may extend safety measures if needed.

Kerala has taken a significant step towards addressing the growing concern of screen addiction among children, with the state’s child rights panel recommending strict guidelines on digital exposure. The panel has emphasized that children below the age of two should have zero exposure to screens, including mobile phones, tablets, televisions, and other digital devices. The move comes amid rising concerns among health experts and educators about the long-term physical, mental, and emotional i

A tragic explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode, located in Kerala, has claimed the lives of at least 13 people and left around 40 others injured, several of them in critical condition. The incident occurred just days before the grand celebrations of Thrissur Pooram, one of the most prominent temple festivals in the state, where elaborate fireworks displays are a major highlight. According to initial reports, the blast took place while workers were preparing fireworks for the upcoming festival. The explosion triggered a massive fire that quickly engulfed the unit, causing widespread destruction and panic in the surrounding area. Eyewitnesses described multiple blasts occurring in quick succession, indicating the presence of highly volatile materials stored inside the facility. Authorities rushed to the spot immediately after receiving alerts, with fire and rescue teams working tirelessly to control the flames and search for survivors. Due to the intensity of the explosion and the extent of the damage, drones were deployed to assess the situation from above and help locate victims trapped under debris. Emergency services shifted the injured to nearby hospitals, where doctors confirmed that several victims remain in critical condition. The incident has raised serious concerns about safety standards in fireworks manufacturing units, especially during peak festival seasons when production is at its highest. Officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and to check whether safety regulations were violated. Preliminary findings suggest that improper storage or handling of explosive materials may have contributed to the tragedy. Local authorities have also initiated a review of all licensed fireworks units in the region to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, families of the victims are grappling with immense grief as the state mourns the loss of lives in what is being described as one of the deadliest industrial accidents in recent times.

A major loan app scam in Kerala has come to light, with students and homemakers emerging as the worst affected groups. The fraudulent operation involves illegal digital lending apps that lure users with quick and easy loans, often requiring minimal documentation. Once individuals sign up, they are trapped in a cycle of harassment, high interest rates, and threats. Authorities have revealed that these apps operate without proper registration and violate financial regulations. Victims

The 2026 assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry witnessed a remarkable surge in voter participation despite facing serious challenges such as incidents of violence and allegations of fraudulent voting. The voter turnout statistics for these regions shattered previous records, signaling a keen interest from the electorate in determining the future of their states. However, the elections were marred by political clashes, protests, and complaints of irregularities in some areas, mak

In a significant development regarding the Sabarimala temple's gender-based entry restrictions, Supreme Court Judge BV Nagarathna expressed her strong opinion, stating that a woman cannot be treated as "untouchable" for three days each month, only to cease being considered untouchable on the fourth day. Her remarks were made during a hearing by a nine-judge bench on petitions related to the exclusion of women from religious places, with a focus on the Sabarimala temple in Kerala. The case has

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has called on voters in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry to use their right to vote as polling begins across 296 seats in these states. In his appeal, Kharge highlighted several critical issues affecting the citizens of Kerala, especially under the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, including rising unemployment, financial distress, and growing uncertainty. Addressing the voters on X, he urged them to once again stand up for the progressive values that

Polling is currently underway in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry as part of the highly significant Assembly elections that are set to shape the political future of these states and have ramifications for national politics. These elections are closely watched by political analysts and citizens alike, as they test the strength of various alliances and political strategies leading up to the 2026 national elections. The elections began at 7 am and will run until 6 pm, with elaborate security arrang

A major political controversy has erupted ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections after Mallikarjun Kharge made a remark comparing voters in Kerala with those in Gujarat. Speaking at a rally in Idukki district, the Congress president stated that people in Kerala are educated and cannot be misled, unlike “illiterate” individuals in Gujarat and some other regions. The statement quickly triggered sharp reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party, intensifying the already heated election atmosphere. The remark was made while Kharge was addressing political rivals, including Narendra Modi and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. His comments were interpreted by BJP leaders as an insult to the people of Gujarat, leading to widespread criticism across party lines. The controversy comes at a crucial time when political parties are actively campaigning and trying to consolidate voter support ahead of polling. The BJP responded aggressively, with Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi accusing Kharge of disrespecting the people of Gujarat and undermining the state’s legacy. Sanghavi highlighted Gujarat’s historical contribution to India, pointing out that it is the birthplace of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He questioned whether Congress continues to target Gujarat out of frustration after losing political ground in the state. Adding to the criticism, BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi challenged Kharge’s statement by referencing prominent leaders from different parts of India, including Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. Trivedi accused the Congress of engaging in divisive rhetoric ahead of elections, suggesting that such remarks are part of a broader strategy to polarize voters. The timing of the controversy has amplified its political significance, as Kerala prepares to vote. The BJP has framed the issue as an example of Congress’s alleged “divide-and-rule” approach, aiming to mobilize public sentiment against the party. Meanwhile, Congress leaders are likely to face pressure to clarify or defend Kharge’s statement as the debate continues to dominate headlines. This episode highlights how election campaigns in India often escalate into sharp exchanges, where statements made during rallies can quickly turn into national controversies. With polling day approaching, the fallout from this remark could influence voter perception and shape campaign narratives in the final phase of the election race.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently assured the nation that the government is providing all possible support to Indians stranded in Gulf countries amid the ongoing Gulf war. Speaking in poll-bound Kerala, the Prime Minister criticized Congress for "politicising" the crisis and making "provocative and irresponsible statements," which he claimed could worsen the situation for Indians abroad. PM Modi emphasized that India's missions and embassies in the Gulf region are offering round

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kerala on March 11 as political activity intensifies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The one day visit is expected to focus on both development initiatives and political outreach, with several major events planned in Kochi, the state’s largest city and a key financial centre. The visit comes at a significant time when political parties are preparing for the Assembly polls expected to take place later this year.

Sanju Samson’s journey in Indian cricket stands as a story of persistence, talent and resilience. Born in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Samson began his cricketing journey under the close guidance of his father, who left his police job to help nurture his son’s ambitions. Those early sacrifices shaped the foundation of a career that would eventually earn recognition across Indian cricket. Samson first came into national prominence when he represented India at the Under-19 level, serving as vice-captain during the 2014 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. Known for his elegant stroke play and confident batting technique, the young wicketkeeper-batsman quickly became one of the most promising talents to emerge from Kerala. His entry into the Indian Premier League further accelerated his rise. Samson made his IPL debut as a teenager and soon established himself as one of the most exciting young batsmen in the tournament. Over the years, he became a cornerstone of the Rajasthan Royals franchise, eventually being appointed captain of the side. In the IPL, Samson has accumulated more than 3,500 runs and has scored multiple centuries and half-centuries, reflecting his consistency as a top-order batsman. On the international stage, Samson’s career has seen both impressive highs and challenging phases. Intense competition within the Indian team often limited his opportunities, but he continued to work on his game and remained prepared whenever chances appeared. One of the defining moments of his international career came in 2024 when he scored a brilliant T20I century against Bangladesh, reinforcing his reputation as a powerful and stylish batsman. Across formats, Samson’s ability to play aggressive yet elegant cricket has earned him admiration from fans and teammates alike. His leadership with Rajasthan Royals, combined with his performances in domestic and international cricket, has strengthened his standing as one of the most prominent cricketers to emerge from Kerala. Today, Sanju Samson’s journey continues to inspire young players across India. From early sacrifices and youth-level leadership to IPL success and international milestones, his career reflects the determination required to succeed at the highest level of the sport.

Indian tourism is undergoing a quiet but significant shift as international travellers begin to look beyond the country’s most familiar destinations. While cities like Goa, Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai have long dominated travel itineraries, a new name is steadily gaining global attention. According to Agoda’s New Horizons Rankings, Thiruvananthapuram has emerged as the fastest-growing destination

Kerala BJP state president and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar triggered a heated political debate after stating that the Union cabinet has no Muslim ministers because there are no Muslim BJP MPs. Speaking at a press meet in Kozhikode, he said that the community does not vote for the BJP, and therefore the party does not have any elected Muslim representatives to induct into the cabinet. His remarks quickly ignited controversy, drawing reactions from across the political spectrum a

The Kerala High Court has issued a strong warning to the state government and the Travancore Devaswom Board, stating that a disaster at Sabarimala is inevitable if the current level of crowd mismanagement continues. The court criticised authorities for failing to anticipate and control the massive influx of devotees during the pilgrimage season. Within just 48 hours of its opening on November 17, the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple saw nearly two lakh devotees arrive, overwhelming police and Devasw

Every year on November 1, several Indian states and union territories mark their foundation day, celebrating the day they were officially reorganized or granted statehood. The date holds unique historical significance as it marks the outcome of India’s post-independence administrative restructuring — a process that reshaped the nation’s map to reflect linguistic and cultural identities. While most people associate November 1 with Kannada Rajyotsava, commemorating the birth of Karnataka,

Kerala is battling a serious health challenge after 19 people lost their lives to Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but deadly infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri. The state has confirmed 69 cases in 2025, almost double last year’s count, making it one of the worst outbreaks in recent years. Cases have been reported across multiple districts, affecting patients as young as three months and as old as 91 y

Kerala is grappling with a serious public health concern after confirming 67 cases of brain-eating amoeba infection, scientifically known as amoebic meningoencephalitis, in 2025. The rare but often fatal disease has already claimed 18 lives this year, according to updated data released under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme on September 14. The latest case involves a 17-year-old boy from Thiruvananthapuram, who was diagnosed after visiting the swi

Onam, Kerala’s most awaited festival, is a 10-day harvest celebration filled with culture, tradition, and community spirit. This year, Onam began on Attam, August 26, and will conclude on Thiruvonam, September 5. The festival commemorates the homecoming of King Mahabali and unites Malayalis across the globe with food, games, rituals, and vibrant traditions. During these ten days, houses are thoroughly cleaned and courtyards are coated with a paste of cow dung before being decorated with intricate floral designs called pookalams. These colourful patterns welcome prosperity and joy. Families and communities gather to celebrate together, strengthening bonds and passing traditions across generations. Women usually wear the elegant kasavu saree, while men don the traditional mundu, symbolizing Kerala’s heritage. Throughout the days, various rituals and activities are organized. Vadamvali, the tug-of-war, is one of the most enjoyed competitions that involves men, women, and children participating enthusiastically. Uriyadi, a thrilling sport where blindfolded participants try to break a hanging pot, adds another layer of excitement. Rituals, Dance, Games and Feast Cultural performances are an integral part of Onam. Pulikali, also known as the tiger dance, is a must-watch street performance where men and women paint themselves as tigers and dance energetically to traditional beats. Another important highlight is Kaikottikali or Thiruvathirakali, a graceful group dance performed by women dressed in matching kasavu sarees, circling a lamp and moving in synchrony to devotional songs. Snake boat races, or Vallam Kali, are a spectacular sight during Onam, especially in Alappuzha and nearby districts. Dozens of skilled oarsmen row the majestic snake boats in rhythm to traditional boat songs called vanchipaatu, creating a breathtaking experience for spectators. In Palakkad and Wayanad, Kummatikali is performed by men wearing wooden masks and colourful attire, enacting mythological stories while entertaining crowds. The celebrations extend beyond homes and communities. Even offices, especially IT hubs in Kerala and Bengaluru, join in with festivities that include cultural ramp walks, dance performances, and dress competitions. The grand feast, Onasadhya, remains the heart of the festival. This lavish vegetarian meal, served on banana leaves, can include up to 26 or more dishes ranging from curries to payasams. It reflects Kerala’s hospitality and love for sharing food with family and friends. Onam is more than a festival; it is a cultural extravaganza that binds communities, celebrates prosperity, and keeps Kerala’s age-old traditions alive. Whether through dance, games, rituals, or food, Onam captures the true spirit of unity and joy.

Veteran CPM leader and former Kerala Chief Minister, VS Achuthanandan, passed away on Monday at the age of 101, following a prolonged hospitalization. Achuthanandan had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram since June 23, after he suffered a suspected cardiac arrest at home. He had been in the ICU, on ventilator support, for an extended period before his death. Kerala Chief Minister Pin