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States and Capitals – How Many States in India?

India, a vast South Asian nation and the world’s seventh-largest by land area, is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital. These states and territories are further segmented into districts. New Delhi, situated in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, serves as India’s administrative, political, and cultural hub.

The states and capitals of India weave a rich and diverse tapestry, reflecting the country’s deep cultural heritage, traditions, and innovations. Exploring these regions offers a fascinating journey through time, blending ancient legacies with modern advancements, tradition with contemporary influence, and showcasing India’s remarkable unity in diversity.

States and Capitals

In 1956, India reorganized its states according to linguistic demographics. Today, the country consists of 28 states and 8 Union Territories, home to nearly 400 cities. Among these, eight major metropolitan cities—Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Pune—are prominent. The Prime Minister has introduced a plan to develop 100 smart cities across the nation, with Indore being recognized as the Smart City for four consecutive years. Discover India’s dynamic urban landscape and its focus on modernization.

How many states in India?

India is the 7th largest country in the world by land area and the 2nd most populated. The country is divided into states and union territories so that the government can function properly. Below is a list of all 28 states, their capitals and the year they were formed.

S.NO State Capital CM Governor
1 Andhra Pradesh Amaravati Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu S. Abdul Nazer
2 Arunachal Pradesh Itanagar Pema Khandu Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
3 Assam Dispur Himanta Biswa Sarma Lakshman Prasad Acharya
4 Bihar Patna Nitish Kumar Arif Mohammed Khan
5 Chhattisgarh Raipur Vishnu Deo Sai Ramen Deka
6 Goa Panaji Pramod Sawant P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7 Gujarat Gandhinagar Bhupendra Patel Acharya Dev Vrat
8 Haryana Chandigarh Nayab Singh Saini Bandaru Dattatraya
9 Himachal Pradesh Shimla Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Shiv Pratap Shukla
10 Jharkhand Ranchi Hemant Soren Santosh Kumar Gangwar
11 Karnataka Bengaluru Siddaramaiah Thaawarchand Gehlot
12 Kerala Thiruvananthapuram Pinarayi Vijayan Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
13 Madhya Pradesh Bhopal Mohan Yadav Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14 Maharashtra Mumbai Devendra Fadnavis C.P. Radhakrishnan
15 Manipur Imphal N. Biren Singh
Ajay Kumar Bhalla
16 Meghalaya Shillong Conrad Kongkal Sangma
C H Vijayashankar
17 Mizoram Aizawl Lalduhoma General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.)
18 Nagaland Kohima Neiphiu Rio
La. Ganesan
19 Odisha Bhubaneswar Mohan Charan Majhi
Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati
20 Punjab Chandigarh Bhagwant Singh Mann Gulab Chand Kataria
21 Rajasthan Jaipur Bhajan Lal Sharma Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
22 Sikkim Gangtok PS Golay Om Prakash Mathur
23 Tamil Nadu Chennai M. K. Stalin R. N. Ravi
24 Telangana Hyderabad Anumula Revanth Reddy Jishnu Dev Varma
25 Tripura Agartala Dr. Manik Saha Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
26 Uttar Pradesh Lucknow Yogi Aditya Nath Anandiben Patel
27 Uttarakhand Dehradun Pushkar Singh Dhami Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28 West Bengal Kolkata Mamata Banerjee Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Union Territories of India and Their Capitals

India has 8 union territories that are managed by the central government. Some of them have their own legislative assemblies. Below is the of these union territories and their capitals:

S.NO Union Territories Capital CM Lt. Governor
1 Andaman and Nicobar Island Port Blair NA D K Joshi
2 Chandigarh Chandigarh NA Banwarilal Purohit
3 Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Daman NA Praful Patel
4 Delhi Delhi Rekha Gupta Vinai Kumar Saxena
5 Ladakh NA NA B. D. Mishra
6 Lakshadweep Kavaratti NA Praful Patel
7 Jammu and Kashmir NA Omar Abdullah Manoj Sinha
8 Puducherry Pondicherry N. Rangaswamy C. P. Radhakrishnan

Difference Between States and Union Territories

India is divided into states and Union Territories for administrative purposes. They are in different in how they are governed.

Basis of Difference States Union Territories
Head of Administration Governor Administrator or Lieutenant Governor
Government Type Elected by the People Managed by the central government
Powers Shares power with the central government. Controlled directly by the central government.

Indian States and their Languages

India is a country with a rich and diverse linguistic heritage. There are over 121 languages spoken in India, and each state has its unique linguistic landscape. The Indian Constitution recognizes 22 languages as “scheduled languages,” which are given special status in government and education.

S. No. States Language
1 Andhra Pradesh Telugu and Urdu
2 Arunachal Pradesh Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi
3 Assam Assamese
4 Bihar Hindi
5 Chhattisgarh Hindi
6 Goa Marathi Konkani
7 Gujarat Gujarati
8 Haryana Hindi
9 Himachal Pradesh Hindi and Pahari
10 Jharkhand Hindi
11 Karnataka Kannada
12 Kerala Malayalam
13 Madhya Pradesh Hindi
14 Maharashtra Marathi
15 Manipur Manipuri
16 Meghalaya Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo
17 Mizoram Mizo and English
18 Nagaland Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha
19 Odisha Oriya
20 Punjab Punjabi
21 Rajasthan Rajasthani and Hindi
22 Sikkim Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu
23 Tamil Nadu Tamil
24 Telangana Telugu
25 Tripura Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak
26 Uttar Pradesh Hindi
27 Uttarakhand Hindi
28 West Bengal Bengali

Some Key Facts About Indian States

Each state in India is unique and has something special. Here are some interesting facts about a few states:

  • Andhra Pradesh: Famous for spicy food and historical sites like Charminar.
  • Assam: Know for tea gardens and Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Bihar: A place with a rich history, home to Bodh Gaya and the ancient city of Pataliputra.
  • Goa: Popular for beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
  • Kerala: Famous for its backwaters, Ayurveda treatments and lush green nature.
  • Maharashtra: Mumbai, the financial capital, is also home to Bollywood.
  • Himachal Pradesh: Known for stunning hill stations and adventure sports.
  • Tamil Nadu: Famous for classical dance forms and grand temples.

Top 10 Countries for Millionaire Migration in 2025

A major shift is underway in how global wealth is moving. In 2025, according to the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report, an estimated 142,000 millionaires are expected to migrate to new countries. This figure is projected to rise even further to 165,000 in 2026. This movement marks one of the largest voluntary shifts in private wealth in modern history.

These migrations are being driven by several factors: favorable tax regimes, safe and luxurious lifestyles, political stability, and access to global business hubs. In this context, countries are not only competing for skilled workers and investments, but also actively attracting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to build stronger financial ecosystems.

Let’s explore the top 10 countries that are expected to receive the highest number of millionaire migrants in 2025.

Top 10 Countries for Millionaire Migration in 2025

Rank Country Millionaire Migration Wealth Inflow (USD) Millionaire Growth Percentage
1 United Arab Emirates 9,800 63 billion 98 percent
2 United States 7,500 43.7 billion 78 percent
3 Italy 3,600 20.7 billion 20 percent
4 Switzerland 3,000 16.8 billion 28 percent
5 Saudi Arabia 2,400 18.4 billion 55 percent
6 Singapore 1,600 8.9 billion 62 percent
7 Portugal 1,400 8.1 billion 38 percent
8 Greece 1,200 7.7 billion 24 percent
9 Canada 1,000 5.7 billion 26 percent
10 Australia 1,000 5.6 billion 30 percent

United Arab Emirates

The UAE remains the leading destination for millionaire migration, with a forecast of 9,800 new millionaires relocating there in 2025. Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to attract wealthy individuals due to:

  • Business-friendly laws
  • World-class infrastructure
  • Safety and tax advantages
  • The highly successful golden visa program

The UAE is seeing strong interest from wealthy individuals in the UK, India, Russia, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Its projected wealth inflow for 2025 is valued at 63 billion US dollars, with a 98 percent increase in its millionaire population.

United States

The United States remains a top destination for wealth migration, expecting to attract 7,500 millionaires in 2025. It offers:

  • Access to the world’s largest economy
  • Renowned education and healthcare systems
  • Strong business and innovation environments

Its millionaire growth is projected at 78 percent, and the total wealth inflow is estimated to be 43.7 billion US dollars.

Italy

Italy has emerged as a surprising winner, ranking third globally with 3,600 millionaires expected to move there. This rise is credited to:

  • Lifestyle appeal in cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence
  • New tax incentives for wealthy foreigners
  • Rich cultural and historic value

Italy is projected to gain 20.7 billion US dollars in private wealth, with a 20 percent growth in millionaire population.

Switzerland

With its long-standing reputation for banking privacy and political neutrality, Switzerland continues to attract HNWIs. In 2025, it is set to welcome 3,000 millionaires, bringing in an estimated 16.8 billion US dollars in new wealth.

The country is experiencing a 28 percent rise in its millionaire population, reflecting strong global trust in its economic system.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is the fastest riser in this year’s ranking. It is projected to gain 2,400 new millionaires, many of whom are returning citizens or international investors drawn to:

  • Rapid economic reforms under Vision 2030
  • Mega-projects like NEOM
  • New lifestyle offerings in cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah

The country will see an inflow of around 18.4 billion US dollars, with a 55 percent surge in millionaire growth.

Singapore

A major Asian wealth hub, Singapore continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors, particularly from China, India, and Southeast Asia. With 1,600 millionaires expected to arrive in 2025, it offers:

  • A highly regulated but low-tax environment
  • Global connectivity
  • Political and social stability

Singapore’s projected wealth inflow is 8.9 billion US dollars, and millionaire growth is pegged at 62 percent.

Portugal

Portugal ranks seventh on the list, drawing in 1,400 new millionaires thanks to its:

  • Golden visa program
  • Quality of life
  • Coastal real estate and favorable climate

Portugal is expected to gain 8.1 billion US dollars in new wealth and record a 38 percent increase in its HNWI population.

Greece

Greece follows closely, with 1,200 millionaires projected to migrate there. The country has become attractive due to:

  • Low cost of living for Europe
  • Investment opportunities in tourism and property
  • The golden visa scheme

It will gain an estimated 7.7 billion US dollars, with a 24 percent increase in its millionaire count.

Canada

Canada continues to be a preferred destination for wealthy individuals looking for political stability, quality healthcare, and peaceful living. With 1,000 millionaire arrivals forecasted for 2025, Canada offers:

  • A strong passport
  • Safe investment opportunities
  • High education standards

Its expected wealth inflow is 5.7 billion US dollars, with a 26 percent millionaire growth rate.

Australia

Tied with Canada in net millionaire inflow, Australia will also welcome 1,000 millionaires in 2025. Although it has seen declining numbers compared to previous years, the country remains attractive for its:

  • Stable government
  • Strong real estate market
  • Access to Asia-Pacific business networks

Australia is expected to add 5.6 billion US dollars to its economy from this migration, with a 30 percent increase in HNWIs.

India’s Position in 2025

India is not among the top 10 destinations for millionaire migration in 2025. Instead, it ranks 57th globally, with a net outflow of around 3,500 millionaires. Many Indian HNWIs are relocating for:

  • Better lifestyle
  • Safer environments
  • Educational and financial advantages abroad

Despite this outflow, India’s millionaire population has grown by 72 percent in the last decade, indicating strong internal wealth creation.

Which District of Uttarakhand is Known as the Mini Kashmir? Know About It

Uttarakhand is a beautiful state in northern India, known for its peaceful mountains, rivers, forests and fresh air. It attracts nature lovers, trekkers and spiritual seekers from all over the country. Many places in Uttarakhand are famous for their stunning landscapes and rich culture. Among these, one district is often compared to Kashmir because of its natural beauty and cool climate, earning it a special nickname.

An Overview of Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a state in northern India, known for its natural beauty, rivers and mountains. It shares borders with Nepal, Tibet and several Indian states. The capital is Dehradun, and Nainital is the judicial capital. Uttarakhand has 13 districts divided into Garhwal and Kumaon regions. About 45% of the state is covered by forests and it is one of India’s greenest states with clean air.

Number of Districts in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has a total of 13 districts, which are divided into two main divisions – Garhwal and Kumaon. Each division has its own unique culture, traditions and beautiful natural landscapes.

Mini Kashmir in Uttarakhand

Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand is known as the ”Mini Kashmir” because of its breathtaking natural beauty. It has green valleys, snow-covered peaks, peaceful lakes and scenic meadows, much like Kashmir. Located in the eastern part of the Himalayas, Pithoragarh also borders Nepal and Tibet and offers amazing views and adventure activities.

Why is Pithoragarh Known as the Mini Kashmir?

Pithoragarh is called Mini Kashmir because of its:

  • Snow-covered Himalayan peaks
  • Green valleys and forests
  • Peaceful lakes and meadows
  • Beautiful sunrise and sunset views

All of this makes it look just like Kashmir, which is often called ”Heaven on Earth.”

An Overview of Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh, located in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, is known for its stunning natural beauty, earning it the nickname ”Mini Kashmir.” It lies at the easternmost part of the state, bordering Nepal to the east and Tibet to the north. The district is famous for its snow-capped Himalayan peaks, lush forests and scenic valleys, including the beautiful Soar Valley, where the town of Pithoragarh is located.

President Murmu Appoints New Governors for Haryana, Goa, and Ladakh

On July 14, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu announced the appointment of new Governors for Haryana and Goa, and a new Lieutenant Governor (LG) for Ladakh. This marks a significant reshuffle in key constitutional posts in two Indian states and one Union Territory.

New Appointments Announced

  • Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh has been appointed as the Governor of Haryana. He is known for his leadership roles in higher education and administration.
  • Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, a senior leader and former Union Minister, has been appointed as the Governor of Goa.
  • Kavinder Gupta, a senior BJP leader from Jammu, has been named the new LG of Ladakh.

These appointments were made by President Murmu as part of regular changes in key constitutional roles. At the same time, the President accepted the resignation of Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), the outgoing LG of Ladakh.

Who Are the New Leaders?

Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh is known for his experience in academic leadership and public service. His appointment in Haryana is expected to strengthen educational and administrative initiatives in the state.

Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju has held several important positions in both Andhra Pradesh and at the central level, including as Union Minister for Civil Aviation. His new role as Governor of Goa brings seasoned political experience to the post.

Kavinder Gupta served as Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir and Speaker of the J&K Legislative Assembly. His new appointment as LG of Ladakh reflects New Delhi’s continued focus on strengthening governance in the Union Territory.

Background and Significance

This reshuffle comes at a time when the government is focusing on administrative efficiency and development in Union Territories and states. The President of India has the constitutional authority to appoint Governors and Lieutenant Governors, who serve as the official representatives of the Union government.

The change in Ladakh’s leadership is particularly notable, as the region is undergoing several developmental and security-related initiatives. Kavinder Gupta’s experience is expected to play a role in handling these challenges.

Antarctic Summer Sea Ice Hits Record Lows

New research has confirmed that Antarctica’s summer sea ice is melting at record levels. This change, observed over the past few years, is warming the ocean, damaging ecosystems, and risking long-term climate effects. Scientists warn that these changes could seriously harm both the planet and people.

What the Study Found

A large team of scientists, including Edward Doddridge from the University of Tasmania, studied the sea ice loss using satellites, ocean robots, and computer models. Their findings, based on years of data and new missions to Antarctica, show that the loss of summer sea ice is more serious than expected. The researchers explored how this loss affects the climate, ocean temperatures, marine life, and even supply missions to Antarctica.

Ocean Heating Is Getting Worse

One major problem is that sea ice reflects sunlight. When it melts, more dark ocean water is exposed, which absorbs heat. This makes the ocean warmer each year. Before 2016, the ocean would cool down again in winter, but now, that cooling is not happening as much. The heat is staying in the water, causing a cycle of continued warming. According to models, the ocean now takes about three years to recover from low ice years – but with rising temperatures, recovery is becoming rare.

Impact on Nature and Ecosystems

The melting ice is not just about temperature. Sea ice supports tiny plants at the bottom of the marine food web, which in turn support fish, birds, and seals. When the ice disappears, these plants have trouble growing, affecting the whole food chain. The loss of ice also exposes the Antarctic coast to stronger ocean waves, increasing iceberg break-offs and changing coastlines.

Supply Missions and Global Concerns

Reports from Antarctic supply missions showed that resupply ships are facing new challenges. Some areas, previously blocked by ice, are now open – but this also brings rougher seas and more dangerous conditions. Experts say this is another sign of how fast the region is changing. The team hopes their findings will push world leaders to act faster on climate change.

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82

Muhammadu Buhari, former President of Nigeria and one-time military ruler, passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. He died in a London hospital, where he was being treated for long-term health problems. Buhari played a major role in Nigeria’s political history as both a strict military leader and a democratically elected president.

A Soldier and President

Buhari first came to power in 1983 through a military coup and ruled Nigeria with a firm hand until he was overthrown in 1985. Known for his strong discipline and anti-corruption stance, he led a strict campaign called the “War Against Indiscipline”. This campaign brought soldiers to the streets, made civil servants do exercises if they were late, and enforced harsh punishments for crimes.

After years away from power, he returned to politics and won the 2015 presidential election, defeating Goodluck Jonathan. He was re-elected in 2019, becoming one of Nigeria’s few leaders to serve both as a military and civilian head of state.

Struggles and Legacy

Though he promised to fight corruption and terrorism, especially the Boko Haram insurgency, Buhari’s two terms saw growing economic troubles, rising security issues, and youth protests, such as the #EndSARS movement against police violence. His leadership style was often described as strict, and some critics, like Nobel Prize-winning author Wole Soyinka, accused him of being harsh toward the people.

Despite these criticisms, many Nigerians initially supported him, hoping his disciplined style could bring change. His supporters believed he stood for order and honesty, especially compared to past corrupt regimes.

New Butterfly Species Found in Kerala’s Western Ghats

A team of Indian scientists has discovered a new butterfly species named Zographetus mathewi in the Western Ghats of Kerala. The butterfly, found in low-elevation forests, is unique to this region and adds to India’s rich wildlife diversity. This rare discovery highlights the importance of studying and protecting the Western Ghats, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot.

Discovery and Scientific Study

The butterfly was discovered by experts from the Travancore Nature History Society, the Institute of Tropical Research, Ecology and Conservation, and the Zoological Survey of India. At first, scientists thought it was a known species called Zographetus ogygia. However, after closely studying its wing patterns and genital structures, they confirmed it as a new species. The detailed research was published in the journal Entomon.

Naming and Features

This newly found species, Zographetus mathewi, is the 15th in its genus and the fifth found in India. It belongs to the Zographetus satwa group, known for its special wing features and male traits. The butterfly is named in honour of George Mathew, a respected Indian entomologist. Its common name is the Sahyadri Spotted Flitter, referring to the local name for the Western Ghats—Sahyadri.

Appearance and Habitat

The butterfly is known for its yellow-ochre hindwing, hairy forewings, and swollen forewing veins in males. These features make it different from other similar butterflies. It lives in forests below 600 metres in Kerala. Its larvae feed on a legume vine called Aganope thyrsiflora. While adult butterflies are rare to spot, scientists found several larvae and pupae in places like Kallar, Shendurney, Edamalayar, and Nilambur, showing that it may be more common than previously thought.

Importance of the Discovery

The discovery of Zographetus mathewi shows the hidden biodiversity in the Western Ghats and underlines the need to protect these low-elevation forests. It also highlights the importance of detailed field research and scientific observation in identifying new species. Such findings can help boost conservation efforts and increase awareness about protecting rare wildlife.

B. Saroja Devi Biography, Know About Her Early Life, Age, Career and Legacy

Bangalore Saroja Devi was one of India’s most beloved and successful film actresses. She ruled the film industry for nearly seven decades, appearing in about 200 films across Tamil, Kannada, Telugu and Hindi languages. Known for her beauty, expressions and grace, she earned titles like ”Abhinaya Saraswathi” (Goddess of Acting) in Kannada and ”Kannadathu Paingili” (Kannada’s Parrot) in Tamil.

B. Saroja Devi – Early life and Background

  • Bon: 7 January 1938 in Bangalore, Mysore State (now Bengaluru, Karnataka)
  • Family: Vokkaliga community; her father Bhairappa was a police officer and mother Rudramma was a homemaker.
  • Childhood: Encouraged by her father to learn dance and later acting. Her mother had strict rules about her on-screen dress, which Saroja Devi followed throughout her career.

First Step in Cinema

Saroja Devi was first noticed at the age of 13 while singing at a function. Though she turned down the initial film offer, she later entered films with the Kannada movie Mahakavi Kalidasa (1955), which became a big success.

Rise to Stardom

Her breakthrough in Tamil cinema came with M.G. Ramachandran’s (MGR) Nadodi Mannan (1958). She was soon cast in Hindi films too, debuting with Paigham (1959) opposite Dilip Kumar.

Over the years, she acted with top stars like:

  • MGR (26 films together)
  • Sivaji Ganesan (22 films)
  • Gemini Ganesan (17 films)
  • N.T. Rama Rao in Telugu cinema
  • Rajkumar in Kannada cinema

Multi-Lingual Success

Saroja Devi was one of the few actresses to work across all four major South Indian languages and Hindi during the 1950s and 60s. She was crowned ”Chaturbhaasha Taare” (Star of Four Languages) in 1962.

Some of her iconic films include:

  • Palum Pazhamum, Enga Veettu Pillai, Anbe Vaa (Tamil)
  • Amarashilpi Jakanachari, Kittooru Rani Chennamma, Mallammana Pavada (Kannada)
  • Jagadeka Veeruni Katha, Seetarama Kalyanam, Daana Veera Soora Karna (Telugu)
  • Paigham, Sasural, Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya (Hindi)

Fashion and Cultural Icon

In the 1960s, Saroja Devi became a style inspiration for South Indian women. Her saris, blouses, hairstyles and jewellery from films like Enga Veettu Pillai and Anbe Vaa were widely copied.

Life After Marriage

She married Sri Harsha, an engineer, in 1967. He supported her acting career and helped her during a financial crisis. Despite her marriage, she continued acting, though her Tamil film appearances reduced due to the arrival of newer heroines.

She continued to dominate Kannada and Telugu cinema in lead roles into the 1980s.

Later Years and Retirement

After her husband’s death in 1986, she briefly stepped away from films. She returned in the late 1980s, but no longer player romantic roles.

Her later works include:

  • Once More (1997) with Sivaji Ganesan
  • Anuraga Sangama (1995) and Agni IPS (1997) in Kannada
  • Aadhavan (2009) –  her last major Tamil film
  • Natasaarvabhowma (2019) – her final film

Saroja Devi – Work Beyond Acting

Saroja Devi was actively involved in:

  • Social service and charity
  • Chairing National Film Award juries in 1998 and 2005
  • Vice-president of Kannada Chalanchitra Sangha
  • Chairperson of Karnataka Film Development Corporation

She also ran a business and sponsored the Bhuvaneshwari Literacy Award in memory of her adopted daughter.

Personal Life of Saroja Devi

  • Husband: Sri Harsha (d. 1986)
  • Daughter: Bhuvaneshwari (adopted niece; died young)
  • Grandchildren: Indira and Gautam

Saroja Devi – Awards and Honors

National Awards

  • Padma Shri (1969)
  • Padma Bhushan (1992)
  • Lifetime Achievement (2008) – Government of India

State Awards

  • Kalaimamani (2009) – Tamil Nadu
  • Dr. Rajkumar Award (2009) – Karnataka
  • NTR National Awards (2001 & 2009) – Andhra Pradesh
  • Tamil Nadu State Film Award (1969)

Other Recognitions

  • Filmfare Lifetime Achievement – South (1994)
  • Honorary Doctorate – Bangalore University (2006)
  • Prajavani Cine Sammana Lifetime Award (2024)

Legacy of B. Saroja Devi

In 2010, the ”Padma Bhushan B. Saroja Devi National Award’‘ was created to honor artists in performing arts. Recipients include K.J. Yesudas, Vyjayantimala and Ambareesh.

She was portrayed by Regina Cassandra in the 2021 biographical film Thalaivii.

Death of Saroja Devi

B. Saroja Devi passed away on 14 July 2025, leaving behind a glorious legacy that will inspire generations of actors and film lovers.

Legendary Actress B. Saroja Devi Passes Away at 87

Legendary South Indian actress B. Saroja Devi passed away at the age of 87 in Bengaluru on July 14, 2025. She was undergoing treatment for age-related health issues at Manipal Hospital in Yeshwanthpur. Her passing marks the end of an era in Telugu and Indian cinema, where she left a powerful legacy through her performances.

A Star of South Indian Cinema

B. Saroja Devi was a leading actress in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi cinema from the 1950s to the 1970s. She appeared in over 190 films and was celebrated for her beauty, versatile acting, and graceful screen presence. She was considered one of the most iconic heroines of the golden era of Indian cinema.

Her contribution to Indian cinema earned her several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan from the Government of India, recognizing her lifetime achievement in films.

Health Issues and Demise

For the past few months, Saroja Devi had been suffering from age-related health problems. Her condition worsened in recent days, and she breathed her last on Sunday, July 14, at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru. Family members, close relatives, and members of the film industry were present when she passed away.

A Legacy That Will Live On

B. Saroja Devi was more than a film star—she was a symbol of elegance and dignity in Indian cinema. Her work inspired many young actors and is still cherished by fans today. Her roles in films during the mid-20th century left a mark that continues to influence the film industry.

Veteran Actor Kota Srinivasa Rao Passes Away at 83

Veteran Telugu actor and former Andhra Pradesh MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away at the age of 83. He breathed his last on July 13, 2025, after a life dedicated to cinema, theatre, and public service. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, where he acted in over 750 films across multiple languages.

Early Life and Entry into Tollywood

Kota Srinivasa Rao was born in 1942 in Kankipadu, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh. He worked at the State Bank of India (SBI) but had a deep love for theatre since his college days. In 1978, he made his debut in the Telugu film Pranam Khareedu. Starting with comedy and character roles, he later became famous for playing powerful villain roles.

Career and Achievements in Film

Rao appeared in over 750 films, including 8 Kannada, 30 Tamil, 10 Hindi, and 1 Malayalam movie. Some of his popular films include Pratigatana, Aha Naa Pellanta!, Sarkar, Shiva, Attarintiki Daredi, Leader, and Bommarillu. His last film appearance was in Suvarna Sundari (2023). He also sang songs in a few Telugu films. Rao won nine Nandi Awards for his excellent performances.

In 2015, he was honoured with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his contribution to Indian cinema.

Political Journey

In 1999, Kota entered politics and was elected as an MLA from Vijayawada East on a BJP ticket. He served in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly till 2004. Though his political career was brief, he remained active in social issues and public welfare.

MI New York Win Second MLC Title After Stunning Comeback

MI New York pulled off an incredible turnaround to win the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) title by defeating Washington Freedom by 5 runs in a thrilling final held on July 14 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. After a poor start to the season, MI New York’s comeback is being called one of the most remarkable in franchise cricket history.

A Final to Remember

Chasing 181 runs, Washington Freedom fell short by just 5 runs, thanks to a brilliant final over from 22-year-old Rushil Ugarkar, who held his nerve against big hitters Glenn Phillips and Glenn Maxwell. Freedom needed 12 runs off the last over, but tight bowling and a crucial catch by Michael Bracewell sealed the win for MI New York.

Freedom had a shaky start, losing two wickets in the first over to Trent Boult. A strong 84-run stand between Rachin Ravindra (70) and Jack Edwards (33) brought them back into the game. However, regular wickets slowed their momentum, and they could not finish the chase.

De Kock Shines with the Bat

Earlier, Quinton de Kock was the star with the bat for MI New York, scoring a fluent 77 off 46 balls, including 6 fours and 4 sixes. He shared a 72-run opening partnership with Monank Patel (28). After a few quick wickets, Nicholas Pooran (22) and de Kock steadied the innings with a 56-run stand. Late fireworks from Kunwarjeet Singh (22* off 13) helped the team post 180/7.

Lockie Ferguson was the best bowler for Washington, picking up 3 wickets for 24 runs, including the big scalps of de Kock and Kieron Pollard in the same over.

A Season of Comeback

MI New York had a terrible start to the season, losing 6 of their first 7 games. But under the leadership of Nicholas Pooran, the team bounced back, won key matches, and made it to the final. Their victory shows how determination and teamwork can turn things around, even after a bad start.

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