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Kerala lawyers campaign against drug abuse in schools during pan-India road trip

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Nijas Thamarasserry and the students at Mawlangkhar Secondary School in Meghalaya taking a vow against drug use

Nijas Thamarasserry and the students at Mawlangkhar Secondary School in Meghalaya taking a vow against drug use
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

When Binu Varghese and Nijas Thamarasserry, lawyers at the Kerala High Court, planned a road trip this year, they did not want it to be just another drive across the country. “We wanted it to mean something — for us and for society,” says 58-year-old Binu over a phone call from Meghalaya, where they are currently travelling.

They call their journey the ‘Bharath Darshan Yatra – Phase 2’. In the first leg last year, they drove to Ladakh and back in 24 days covering 9,145 kilometres. This time, their mission is fuelled by a growing concern: the rise of drug abuse, especially among school and college students.

“Since January, Kerala has seen a surge in drug-related cases — across news and social media. The crimes are horrifying. And during our travels, which began on March 2, we realised this is a pan-India issue. Teachers and guardians everywhere are worried,” Binu explains.

Binu Varghese and Nijas Thamarasserry on the road.

Binu Varghese and Nijas Thamarasserry on the road.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Their road trip has doubled as an awareness campaign, where they conduct interactive sessions in schools, colleges and any public events they came across while on the road, highlighting the dangers of substance abuse. “We tell students that travel is an obsession worth having — something that brings real, enriching experiences. They don’t need to seek dangerous highs like drugs,” Binu says.

The duo speaks to students about how drugs can derail academics, relationships, and long-term goals. “We urge them to stay alert and report any known cases of drug use to their teachers,” adds Nijas.

As lawyers who often handle drug-related cases — mostly involving MDMA in Kerala — they have seen first-hand the damage it causes. “Turns out it’s not just a Kerala problem. It’s everywhere,” says Nijas.

Their campaign has received enthusiastic support from educational institutions. They approached some school directly and the others through local contacts. They received an enthusiastic response wherever they went. “At one school in West Bengal, we spoke to 100 students, and the administration immediately asked us to address another class,” Nijas shares.

Nijas at Ramathanga Government Higher Secondary School in Cooch Bihar, West Bengal

Nijas at Ramathanga Government Higher Secondary School in Cooch Bihar, West Bengal
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Depending on the region, they have conducted sessions in Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, and English, with translators provided where needed. Their route so far has taken them through Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, and Meghalaya. They plan to cover the rest of the Northeast — Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Mizoram — before heading to Sikkim, Nepal, and Bhutan.

In every state, they inform students and educators about the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), which has zonal offices across India, and share helpline numbers and the NCB pledge to encourage reporting. “Many don’t even know these resources exist,” Binu says.

Both Binu (from Thrissur) and Nijas (from Kozhikode) are classmates from Karnataka State Law University, Bengaluru. Binu, a teetotaller, even has a signboard outside his home that forbids alcohol, drugs, and weapons. “People laughed at me once, but look at where we are now,” he remarks.

They are travelling in Binu’s jeep, sleeping either in the vehicle or at petrol pumps, and plan to stay on the road for another month.

Asked why they chose to turn a potential holiday into a demanding campaign, they say: “It’s our social responsibility as lawyers. There’s nothing in it for us — but we believe in contributing meaningfully. If we don’t act now, drug abuse will become an epidemic.”

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A dawn to dusk food trail in Dindigul, the land of seeraga samba biryani

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I have suitably skipped dinner the pervious night in preparation for my Dindigul trip. A crucial tip to those who plan to visit the town on a food tour: go on an empty stomach. If possible, fast for a week before you start dreaming of seeraga samba biryani, for, you might eat far more than you can handle. Dindigul, located a little less than 65 kilometres from Madurai, is the birthplace of Tamil Nadu’s seeraga samba biryani that is now going places. But there is more to the town than just biryani. Here are our picks.

Lamb trotters for breakfast

In Dindigul, several restaurants serve biryani from as early as 6am. I do not yield to the temptation so early in the day, and try something different. Bangaru Biryani, started in 1931 by Bangarusamy Naidu, has opened a new outlet on Round Road, serving biryani, idli and idiyappam with a range of mutton and chicken sides for breakfast.

The breakfast platter at Bangaru Biryani Hotel in Dindigul

The breakfast platter at Bangaru Biryani Hotel in Dindigul
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

The small eatery that can seat not more than 12 people, is being run by S Giridharan, great grandson of the founder Bangarusamy. Giridharan’s father Subbrayalu Naidu trained under the founder in his younger years. A small framed photo of Subbrayalu hangs on the wall, opposite which the menu is displayed. K Angusamy, the master, lays out a feast on a leaf: idiyappam, idli, lamp trotters soup, mutton chukka, vellai kuruma, naattu kozhi kulambu, and mutton milagu kulambu. There is also a serving of mutton biryani and dalcha.

The mutton chukka alone, a dish of popcorn-sized boneless mutton slow-cooked with chilli powder and curry leaves, makes the journey worthwhile. The meat is tender, enveloped in a glistening layer of chilli-infused oil, punctuated by crisp curry leaves. It goes well with the idiyappam.

A mention must be made of the creamy mutton vellai kuruma, a Dindigul staple. Angusamy explains that it has ground coconut, cashew nuts and roasted chana dal. This curry is the next most popular dish is the town after biryani. It is mild with a hit of pepper, and can be had with idlis as well as idiyappams and dosas.

How much biryani is too much?

It is natural to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of places to eat biryani in town. With three branches, Siva is the new favourite in Dindigul, and I understand why. The oldest outlet, a hole-in-wall place at Begampur, is always packed. Venu, a few blocks away, serves decent biryani too. But there is something about Siva that makes it a tad better.

Lunch is served at Siva Biryani

Lunch is served at Siva Biryani
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

The biryani is light brown, with the rice cooked al dente. The spices are balanced — unlike some restaurants that go a little overboard with cinnamon — and the meat is tender. For people like me who grew up eating Venu, Thalappakatti, and Ponram biryani, Siva’s is similar and different at the same time. A Mohan Raj, a relative of the founder K Ganesan, explains that the trick is to source the right ingredients. While the restaurant has been around from 1989, it really took off after the pandemic, with tourists from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Coimbatore visiting the town just for their biryani.

“In 2023, a Japanese restauranteur came to Dindigul for a week-long trip,” recalls Mohan. “He ate our biryani for lunch every day, alternating it with kari dosai for dinner.” The 32-year-old does not remember his name nor did he understand the guest’s language. “But I do know that he went back happy,” he says.

Warm, gooey halwa and jilebis

It is common practice for tourists to stop at one of the sweet shops for its jilebis after their fix of biryani. Among the oldest such shops is Jilebi Seshaiyer on Sandhai Road. Established in the 1960s, the shop is the brainchild of SK Seshaiyer, who initially sold sweets on pushcarts at various spots in town. His jilebis gradually grew in popularity and today, are served fresh and mildly warm through the day.

Jilebi at Jilebi Seshaiyer Sweets on Sandhai Road, Dindigul

Jilebi at Jilebi Seshaiyer Sweets on Sandhai Road, Dindigul
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

A piece of the sweet makes the palate happy, and the owner R Bhuvaneshwari suggests we also try the godhumai halwa. The sticky, chocolate-brown dessert is warm and drips with ghee.

Coffee with a side of potato masala

A savouries shop in a small lane sells what is arguably the oldest snack in Dindigul. Known as ‘Alwar kadai’, the shop has been around for over 75 years, selling mixture, boondi, murukku, pakoda, among others. But I arrive there on the last leg of my journey for a taste of its potato pottalam, a dish of boiled, mashed potatoes cooked with onions, turmeric and green chillies.

Potato masal at Aalwar Sweets in Dindigul

Potato masal at Aalwar Sweets in Dindigul
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

The owner SS Sathyanarayanan who is seated at the counter, says gravely: “It is not yet 3pm.” The snack is available only then, and gets sold out soon after. Once the masala arrives from the kitchen, it is packed as small dollops in banana leaves.

A little after 3.15pm, he offers a pottalam for me to try. It is triangular — the wrapping gives way to warm, thick, potato masala folded in a banana leaf. It is not too heavy flavour-wise, but can make for a nice snack to go with coffee or tea from the many tea shops in town.

As for dinner, I decide to make do with coconut water. But one can also do another round at Ponram, Venu, Thalappakatti, and Bangaru, not necessarily in that order.

How to get there

There are several trains from Chennai that stop at Dindigul, such as the Vaigai Express, Tirunelveli Vande Bharat Express, and Pothigai Express. Madurai is the nearest city with an airport, with regular buses to and from Dindigul.

Published – July 10, 2025 01:10 pm IST

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Mahindra expands XUV 3XO range with REVX variants

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Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Mahindra has reinforced its presence in the competitive C-segment SUV space with the introduction of three new petrol variants under the ‘REVX’ nomenclature — the REVX M, REVX M(O), and the REVX A. These additions to the XUV 3XO range aim to bridge the gap between entry-level and higher-spec variants by offering a more feature-rich proposition at accessible price points.

Positioning is key here. The REVX M and M(O) have been slotted between the MX2 and MX2 Pro trims, while the REVX A finds itself just below the AX5 L, effectively expanding the product band with minimal overlap. The strategy is clear: create finely-segmented options that respond to diverse buyer expectations — from value-driven essentials to performance-oriented sophistication.

Powertrain options remain consistent with Mahindra’s modular approach. The REVX M and M(O) are equipped with the 1.2-litre mStallion TCMPFi engine, producing 82 kW (110 bhp) and 200 Nm of torque. Tuned for smooth, linear delivery, it is well-suited for urban commutes and occasional intercity travel. The REVX A, however, makes a notable leap with the more advanced 1.2-litre mStallion TGDi powerplant, delivering 96 kW (130 bhp) and 230 Nm of torque. This engine, offered with both manual and automatic transmissions, transforms the 3XO into a far more responsive and refined vehicle — a distinction that will not go unnoticed by discerning drivers.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Design and visual identity also receive meaningful upgrades. The REVX A stands apart with a distinctive body-coloured gunmetal grille, gloss-black R16 alloy wheels, a contrasting dual-tone roof, and subtle ‘REVX’ branding on the C-pillar — touches that lend it a premium, more individualistic character. ORVM-integrated turn indicators and Bi-LED projector headlamps further elevate both its safety credentials and road presence.

Meanwhile, the REVX M and M(O) maintain visual consistency across the range. While they ride on steel wheels with black covers, both variants receive LED DRLs running across the fascia, a dual-tone roof, and the same body-coloured grille — a thoughtful approach that avoids a stripped-down aesthetic even in the lower trims.

Inside, Mahindra has ensured that material quality and in-cabin technology remain competitive. The REVX A offers black leatherette upholstery, a dual-tone cabin theme, and twin 26.03 cm HD screens — one serving infotainment duties and the other as a digital driver’s display. The Adrenox Connect system is standard on this trim, bringing with it a suite of connected features, including built-in Alexa, online navigation, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay — aligning the 3XO with modern user’s expectations in the segment.

Despite their more accessible positioning, the REVX M and M(O) are not spartan. The REVX M features leatherette seating, a touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, and a 4-speaker audio setup. A single-pane sunroof is offered on the M(O), while the A variant receives a panoramic sunroof as standard — further enhancing the sense of space and premium appeal. The base REVX M omits a sunroof entirely, but remains reasonably well-equipped.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Safety continues to be a strong point across the range. All three REVX variants are fitted with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Hold, and disc brakes on all four wheels — all as standard. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), however, remain the preserve of the higher AX trims, ensuring clear differentiation at the top of the hierarchy.

The XUV 3XO has already demonstrated its market potential with over 1,00,000 units sold within 11 months of launch. With the introduction of the REVX variants, Mahindra is sharpening the product’s appeal by introducing a more nuanced value proposition — one that caters to varied customer priorities without undermining the brand’s premium aspirations.

Ex-showroom pricing for the new REVX variants is REVX M: ₹8.94 lakh, REVX M(O): ₹9.44 lakh and REVX A: Starting at ₹11.79 lakh.

Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram on @motorscribes

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Monsoon treks near Visakhapatnam: Explore scenic Eastern Ghats trails

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A view of Armakonda peak.

A view of Armakonda peak.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Each monsoon, the dusty calm of the Eastern Ghats near Visakhapatnam transforms into dense canopies, flowing streams and fresh trails. Mist wraps undisturbed hillsides, foot trails soften under cloudbursts and hidden waterfalls reveal themselves to those willing to walk into the wilderness. Trekkers, photographers and Nature-lovers are now drawn to the elevated interiors of Alluri Sitharama Raju district and beyond. A new wave of monsoon treks is shaping the region’s eco-tourism narrative.

Trekking groups are leading a growing community of enthusiasts with guided monsoon treks that go beyond adventure. These curated trails are introducing participants to lesser-known ecosystems, endemic biodiversity and the cultural knowledge of local communities inhabiting these remote landscapes. Here’s a list of monsoon treks that take you through cloud-covered peaks of the Eastern Ghats.

Kandupalem waterfalls

A view of the Kandupalem waterfalls in Paderu.

A view of the Kandupalem waterfalls in Paderu.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Tucked into the verdant folds of Paderu’s highlands, the Kandupalem waterfall trek is as much a cultural passage as it is a scenic one. The trail winds through a remote tribal hamlet before descending into a dense canopy where the gurgling of water becomes audible long before it’s visible. The trek is not arduous, but the journey demands attentiveness, both to the changing forest floor and the sudden appearance of butterflies, beetles and fungi that flourish in the damp terrain. During the monsoon, the waterfalls surge with vitality. The trek is organised by Visakhapatnam-based Nature group Wilded in collaboration with the local communities. On the way to the Kandupalem trek, the route offers sweeping views of the Konam reservoir and dam, framed by the deep valleys and forests of the Eastern Ghats. The day-long trek takes people from Hanumanthwaka junction to the hike and back to where they started out.

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, 6 kilometres overall

Chittamgondi meadows

A view of the trek route of Chittamgondi meadows near Araku.

A view of the trek route of Chittamgondi meadows near Araku.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Organised by Wilded, the Chittamgondi meadows trek in Araku unfolds along scenic, green rocky trails that gradually ascend to expansive meadows situated at an altitude of 4,100 feet above sea level. The trail, covering a distance of eight kilometres, offers a moderate challenge for those seeking both adventure and immersion in the landscape. At the summit, trekkers are rewarded with a sweeping 360-degree view of the Eastern Ghats with an uninterrupted panorama of ridgelines and valleys softened by the monsoon. A notable feature of the trek is a natural cave shelter once used by local hunters, adding a layer of cultural intrigue to the journey through these highland grasslands. The walk is slow-paced, built for immersion rather than endurance, allowing trekkers to witness how monsoon-fed landscapes nurture entire microhabitats. Wilded’s emphasis on minimal intervention and local interpretation ensures the trek remains rooted in ecological awareness rather than tourism fatigue.

Difficulty level: Moderate

Armakonda trek

A view of the camp site of Armakonda.

A view of the camp site of Armakonda.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

At 4,500 feet above sea level, Armakonda (also known as Jindhagada peak) is the tallest point in Andhra Pradesh. Hikoi Adventures, a trekking group known for its offbeat routes, is organising the Freedom Trek to this peak located at Paderu on August 14 and 15 to mark Independence Day. The route, starting from Paderu and gradually ascending through water-crossed paths and thick vegetation, is led by a team of experienced local youth alongside Hikoi’s trained members. The ascent, which takes approximately two and a half hours, culminates at a campsite near the summit, offering a rare opportunity to spend the night on top of the Eastern Ghats. What sets this trek apart is its altitude as well as the diverse terrain it traverses – limestone caves, freshwater stream crossings and stretches of highland forest that unfold in segments along the route, revealing a different facet of the region’s rugged ecology.

Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult

Sir Endric Peak

A view of the trek route to Endric Peak.

A view of the trek route to Endric Peak.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Close to the Odisha border in Paderu lies the forest-covered Sir Endric Peak, rising to 1,572 metres above sea level. The initial 30-minute stretch of this three-hour trek organised by Hikoi is notably steep, demanding steady footing and a slow, deliberate pace. Once the first climb is complete, the forest thickens, revealing a layered rainforest system few trekkers expect to encounter this far south. The terrain evolves every half hour from shaded paths to fern-filled clearings to wind-swept ridges. The final stretch is steep, but the summit rewards the effort with a surreal view: a quiet valley suspended above the clouds.

Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult

Galikonda Trek

Galikonda, the second highest peak in Andhra Pradesh, is not for first-time trekkers. Located near Sunkarmetta Junction, the trail rises to 1,643 metres over a rugged terrain of loose rocks, narrow passes and exposed ridgelines. The trek takes about two and a half hours, though the strain lies more in mental resolve than distance. It is open, challenging and occasionally punishing. But for those who persist, the summit offers a rarely seen panoramic sweep of the Araku valley.

Difficulty level: Very difficult Contact Wilded at 7330880274 and Hikoi at 8332935333

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