Ganesh Kumar

A significant UDF wave is reshaping Kerala's political landscape, challenging established legacies and incumbency. Key figures and traditional strongholds are facing unexpected reversals, indicating a strong public demand for change. While some close contests persist, the overall trend points towards a decisive mandate for the UDF, marking a departure from personality-driven politics and historical strongholds.

Barchalla, a rural constituency in Sonitpur, sees BJP's Ritu Baran Sarmah face INC's Ripun Bora in the 2026 election. The seat, historically a Congress stronghold, is now contested amidst demands for ST status and land rights for tea workers. High voter turnout reflects the electorate's political engagement.

A significant political shift is unfolding in Kerala as the UDF surges past the 100-seat mark, leading in 102 constituencies. The ruling LDF trails with 37 seats, and the NDA is confined to a single seat. Several ministers are trailing, while some UDF leaders secure substantial leads, indicating a strong comeback for the front.

The high-stakes Assam assembly elections are set for results on May 4, with the BJP aiming for a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Exit polls suggest an edge for the BJP, while the Congress, led by Gaurav Gogoi, seeks a comeback. Key constituencies like Jalukbari and Jorhat witnessed closely watched contests.

Southern Kerala witnessed a significant political shift in the 2026 assembly polls, with the LDF losing 24 seats in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha compared to 2021. This decline, marked by ministerial defeats and disintegration of traditional vote banks, points to anti-incumbency, leadership vulnerabilities, and evolving social coalitions.

Anticipation is high for 'Drishyam 3', reuniting Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph. Esther Anil recalled a challenging interrogation scene from the original, noting Venkatesh's admission that only Mohanlal could capture its emotional nuance. The film, with a star-studded cast, is slated for a May 21 release, while its Hindi remake is expected October 2, 2026.

Assam recorded over 85% voter turnout in its recent elections, with exit polls projecting a third consecutive term for the BJP led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The election saw intensified political exchanges between the ruling NDA and a divided opposition, with several key constituencies expected to witness closely fought contests.

Early trends for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections show a significant shift, with the Congress-led UDF projected for a commanding victory, leading in over 100 seats. The ruling LDF faces strong anti-incumbency, while the BJP remains a marginal player. This outcome suggests a return to Kerala's traditional pattern of alternating governments.

Pathanapuram, a traditional stronghold of K B Ganesh Kumar, faces a more competitive assembly election due to strains in his relationships with the NSS and a section of the Christian community. These shifts, coupled with Congress leveraging Oommen Chandy's legacy, could narrow Kumar's victory margin, making the contest tighter than in previous years.

Kerala's state elections see a surge of film actors, reality stars, and social media influencers contesting seats. Parties are fielding these personalities, hoping their fame will attract votes, especially from younger demographics. This trend marks a shift from past elections where political experience was prioritized.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the BJP candidate for Nemom, has declared the highest total assets among candidates at Rs 93.88 crore. His spouse holds more movable assets. Asset declarations were mandatory for nomination filing. Ministers K B Ganesh Kumar and P Prasad also declared their assets. Immovable assets are valued at current market rates.

A devastating incident marred the Chhath Puja celebrations in Patna, as two young lives were tragically lost in the Ganga at Damrahi Ghat. As devotees gathered around 7 am, the allure of the river proved perilous when a group ignored safety barriers, swept away by the strong currents.

Among ministers contesting the election, there is a sharp contrast. K B Ganesh Kumar from Pathanapuram has declared assets of Rs 6.37 crore, while P Prasad from Cherthala has assets of just Rs 9.49 lakh, placing him at the lower end among prominent candidates. The filings also indicate that in many cases, spouses of candidates hold a larger share of movable assets, adding another layer to the financial disclosures.

Mohanlal's highly anticipated 'Drishyam 3' has been rescheduled for a worldwide release on May 21, 2026, coinciding with the superstar's birthday. The makers announced the new date after initial reports suggested a postponement due to ongoing tensions in the Gulf. The film, which concluded shooting last December, sees Mohanlal reprising his iconic role as Georgekutty.

A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Barkatha when eight-year-old Ankush Kumar tragically lost his life due to a collision with a speeding tractor loaded with sand. The local community reacted with anger, detaining the driver, Ganesh Kumar, who was later taken into custody following a formal complaint lodged by Ankush's distraught mother. The tractor's owner, Bittu Mandal, is also being investigated.

Rahul Gandhi's free travel for women on KSRTC buses has sparked debate, but the LDF is also considering a similar populist plan for its election manifesto. This proposal, inspired by London's freedom travel pass, aims to benefit women and senior citizens.

Bindu Menon, wife of Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar, alleged finding him in a compromising situation at his residence and sought police assistance. She claims she was prevented from leaving and her phone was targeted. Kumar responded by stating his personal life is not for public interference and dismissed the accusations as politically motivated.

The ceremony was a low key affair

Former sports minister K B Ganesh Kumar on Saturday quit the organising committee of the 35th National Games alleging massive corruption in the games’ deals and said he had warned chief minister Oommen Chandy about it.