The Latremie Post

Sikh organizations urge Centre to reconsider Pakistan pilgrimage travel ban

**Sikh Organizations Urge Centre to Reconsider Pakistan Pilgrimage Travel Ban**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 21, 2025, 12:48 PM*

Sikh organizations and political parties have appealed to the Indian government to rethink its decision to halt pilgrimage travel to Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, a site of great religious significance. Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) advised states to stop processing applications for journeys to Nankana Sahib citing security concerns related to Pakistan.

This directive has left many devotees disappointed. Among them is Kanwaljit Kaur Dhillon from Ludhiana district in Punjab, who, along with her husband, had been eagerly planning to visit Nankana Sahib to participate in Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary celebrations in November. “If the game of cricket between two nations could be allowed, then why restrict us?” Dhillon questioned. She is one of approximately 1,900 applicants who submitted their documents through the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for the pilgrimage.

### Demand for Reopening Kartarpur Corridor

In addition to the plea for resuming pilgrimages to Nankana Sahib, Sikh organizations are also demanding the reopening of the Kartarpur corridor. This corridor, established in 2019 to facilitate easier access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, was temporarily closed during the COVID-19 pandemic but reopened in 2021. However, it was shut again in May following Operation Sindoor.

On May 9, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced the suspension of the corridor citing security concerns. So far, the Ministry of External Affairs has not indicated when it might reopen the corridor.

### Concerns Over Discrimination and Security Claims

Amarjit Singh, Director of the Sikh Studies Chair at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, questioned the government’s decision, pointing out that Sikh devotees from across the globe visit Nankana Sahib. “So, security would not be an issue only for Sikhs from India, would it?” he asked.

Similarly, Dharam Singh, a former professor at Punjabi University Patiala, criticized the ban, remarking that if bilateral cricket matches are permitted between India and Pakistan, then pilgrims should logically be allowed to visit as well.

### SGPC Seeks Permission for Pilgrimage

The SGPC had begun collecting passports from devotees in July to send pilgrimage visa applications to the Pakistan High Commission. This process was initiated before the Home Ministry issued its advisory.

Currently, the SGPC has formally requested the Centre to grant permission for pilgrims to visit Nankana Sahib during the upcoming Guru Nanak Dev birth anniversary celebrations in November.

The Sikh community awaits a favorable response, hoping for the restoration of pilgrimage rights that hold deep spiritual significance.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/if-cricket-allowed-why-not-pilgrimages-to-pakistan-sikh-groups/story

FPIs pull ₹7,945cr from Indian equities, net outflows ₹1.4L crore

**FPIs Withdraw ₹7,945 Crore from Indian Equities; Net Outflows Cross ₹1.4 Lakh Crore in 2025**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 02:18 PM*

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have pulled out ₹7,945 crore from Indian equities so far in September. This continued sell-off is largely driven by global uncertainties, including tariffs and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The trend follows significant outflows seen in previous months, with FPIs withdrawing ₹34,990 crore in August and ₹17,700 crore in July. Overall, FPI sell-offs in Indian equities have reached a staggering ₹1.38 lakh crore in 2025, according to the latest data.

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### Looking Ahead: Signs of Moderation in Selling

Market experts are closely monitoring upcoming macroeconomic data from both India and the United States, along with tariff negotiations. These factors are poised to influence FPI flows in the near term.

Despite remaining net sellers in September with cumulative equity outflows of ₹7,945 crore through September 19, FPIs have displayed some moderation in their selling behavior recently.

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### Impact of the Fed’s Rate Cut on Market Liquidity

Following the US Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates by 25 basis points, FPIs briefly turned net buyers last week, purchasing equities worth ₹900 crore during this period.

“For the current week, FPIs bought Indian equities worth ₹900 crore on the back of the Fed’s rate cut,” said Vaqarjaved Khan, Senior Fundamental Analyst at Religare Broking Ltd. He added that two more rate cuts are projected in 2025, which could significantly enhance liquidity in global markets.

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### Investor Sentiment Bolstered by Easing Trade Tensions

Himanshu Srivastava from Morningstar Investment Research India observed a “modest but noticeable return” of foreign investors to Indian equities last week. He attributed this shift to the Fed’s dovish stance, easing US-India trade frictions, and a stable macroeconomic outlook in India.

However, Srivastava cautioned that persistent global uncertainties and geopolitical risks continue to temper investor enthusiasm, keeping FPI flows cautious.

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### Market Strategy: FPIs Diversify into Debt Markets

V K Vijayakumar from Geojit Financial Services pointed out that the FPI selling trend in India has coincided with buying activity in other Asian markets such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea. This strategy has been profitable this year but may evolve going forward.

Additionally, debt markets in India have seen FPI investment, with inflows of approximately ₹900 crore under the general limit and ₹1,100 crore through the voluntary retention route.

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**In summary, while FPIs continue to withdraw from Indian equities amid global uncertainties, recent developments such as the Fed’s rate cuts and easing trade tensions offer potential for stabilization and renewed foreign investment flows in the near future.**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/fpis-pull-out-8-000cr-from-equities-in-september/story

A silent emergency

Every year, tobacco use claims the lives of more than 160,000 Pakistanis. This devastating toll is driven by over 7,000 harmful chemicals found in tobacco, including tar, ammonia, benzene, and various carcinogens. These substances damage vital organs and cause cancers, strokes, and chronic respiratory illnesses.

Treating these preventable conditions costs at least 1.4 percent of Pakistan’s GDP each year, diverting valuable resources that could otherwise be allocated to essential sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Behind each statistic is a family coping with emotional and financial burdens. Tobacco use is therefore not just a health problem, but a profound social, economic, and developmental challenge that demands urgent national action.

Yet, myths about tobacco remain deeply ingrained in Pakistani society. Hukka is often romanticized as a harmless social ritual, while naswar (a powdered tobacco dip) continues to be promoted as a remedy for headaches. In rural areas, it is common for women to gather in someone’s home to smoke hukka together.

There is also a widespread misconception that light use—fewer cigarettes, occasional hukka, or small amounts of naswar—is risk-free. In reality, even small amounts of tobacco products carry significant health consequences that should not be underestimated.

Tobacco dependence rarely begins as a casual choice. It is often driven by stress, economic hardship, peer pressure, and the addictive properties of tobacco. Telling someone to “just quit” without offering support is like sending a ship to sea without a compass. Many people have never heard of nicotine patches, counselling hotlines, or support groups — or these resources are beyond their purchasing power.

Culturally appropriate cessation programs that integrate behavioural counselling, peer-support networks, and affordable nicotine-replacement therapies are urgently needed. These programs must be made accessible to every community, from cities to remote villages.

Public health education will only succeed if it is rooted in communities and delivered by trusted local voices. Religious leaders, village elders, and teachers can dismantle myths and spark meaningful dialogue in ways that printed leaflets never could. Youth-focused workshops should be interactive, equipping young people to resist peer pressure and challenge cultural norms that normalize tobacco use.

Frontline health professionals, including lady health workers, should be empowered to offer cessation counselling alongside routine services, screen for tobacco use, and connect patients to support options. Civil society can mobilize volunteers to host neighborhood quit-tobacco circles, transforming quitting from a lonely struggle into a collective movement.

Current tobacco laws—such as graphic health warnings on packaging, bans on smoking in public spaces, and steep tax hikes—have more potential than symbolic measures. They can, and do, save lives. For example, when Pakistan increased tobacco taxes by 150 percent in February 2023, cigarette consumption plunged by 19.2 percent, demonstrating that higher prices discourage use.

However, inconsistent enforcement has dulled the impact of these policies. Regular inspections of cafés and shops, transparent public reporting of violations, and substantial penalties for offenders must become the norm rather than the exception.

Pakistan’s tobacco epidemic is neither inevitable nor insurmountable. With determined, culturally nuanced strategies and robust collaboration across sectors, we can reverse a trend that costs lives, compromises our economy, and stunts our future.

Every Pakistani deserves the chance to breathe freely, work productively, and watch their children grow in a nation that values life over addiction.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345108-a-silent-emergency

Priyadarshan blames ‘bad forces’ for ‘Hera Pheri 3’ controversy

**Priyadarshan Blames ‘Bad Forces’ for ‘Hera Pheri 3’ Controversy**

*By Isha Sharma | September 21, 2025, 12:26 PM*

The much-anticipated third installment of the beloved *Hera Pheri* franchise has recently been surrounded by controversy. Earlier this year, veteran actor Paresh Rawal briefly exited the project in May, citing creative disagreements. However, he made a comeback in late June, confirming his reunion with co-stars Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty.

Addressing the situation, director Priyadarshan clarified that there were no personal issues between him, Akshay Kumar, and Paresh Rawal. Speaking to Pinkvilla, he said, “I tell you very frankly, Paresh and I never had an issue. Even to the best of my knowledge, Akshay and Paresh also never had any issue. There are some other forces, bad forces, who were pressurizing Paresh. He is someone who tends to get worried easily, but at the same time our relationship has never been affected.”

Priyadarshan further expressed his reluctance to focus on the negative aspects surrounding the project. “I thought and even Akshay told me that if it happens let it happen otherwise let’s forget it. If it happens in a very good way, that’s great, but there are other bad forces which have created a lot of issues. It is not worth talking about them so I won’t,” he added.

Rawal’s sudden departure had reportedly resulted in Akshay Kumar’s production house filing a case against him. The actor, however, maintained that he had legitimate reasons for his exit and had even returned his signing amount along with interest. Thankfully, the dispute was resolved, and Rawal is now back on board.

In a recent interview with News18, Paresh Rawal confirmed that *Hera Pheri 3* is set to go on floors next year, much to the excitement of fans eagerly awaiting the film’s release.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/priyadarshan-breaks-silence-on-hera-pheri-3-controversy/story

Indian Embassy in US issues emergency number for H-1B concerns

**Indian Embassy in US Issues Emergency Number for H-1B Concerns**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 01:47 PM*

**Overview**

The Indian Embassy in the United States has issued an emergency assistance number for Indian nationals amid growing concerns following a new proclamation by President Donald Trump. The proclamation imposes a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, raising alarm among thousands of Indian tech professionals working in the US.

The embassy shared an official message on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Indian nationals seeking emergency assistance may call cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp).”

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**Impact on Indian Tech Professionals**

The announcement of the hefty new fee has triggered widespread worry about its impact on Indian tech workers and remittances sent back home. Indians make up approximately 71-72% of all H-1B visa recipients, highlighting the significance of this policy change.

Fortunately, a senior official from the US administration clarified that the annual fee applies only to new H-1B visa petitions and does not affect existing visa holders or those renewing their visas. While this offers some relief, uncertainties remain among businesses and affected individuals.

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**Important Note**

The emergency number provided by the Indian Embassy is intended strictly for urgent assistance related to the new fee structure and is **not** for routine consular queries.

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**Diplomatic Response**

In response to these changes, the Indian government has instructed all its missions and posts in the US to provide maximum support to Indian nationals preparing to travel or return in the next 24 hours.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely analyzing how these new rules could affect Indian families and professionals living in the US.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal commented on the situation, saying, “The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned.” He emphasized that both Indian and American industries have a shared interest in fostering innovation and creativity, suggesting ongoing consultations to find the best way forward.

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The situation is evolving, and Indian nationals affected by these changes are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and utilize the emergency assistance number if needed.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/h-1b-row-indian-embassy-issues-emergency-number-for-assisting-nationals/story

‘BB 19’: Salman schools Gaurav, questions his contribution to show

**‘BB 19’: Salman Schools Gaurav, Questions His Contribution to the Show**
*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 10:20 AM*

The latest episode of *Bigg Boss 19 Weekend Ka Vaar* saw host Salman Khan taking a playful dig at actor Gaurav Khanna for his lackluster performance inside the house. Salman remarked, “Gaurav, you seem nervous playing on the front foot. In the whole week, you were visible for barely 20 minutes, blink and you’re gone.”

The reality show, which is streaming on JioHotstar and airs on Colors TV, continues to keep viewers engaged with its dramatic twists and entertainment.

During the episode, Salman questioned the housemates about Gaurav Khanna’s contribution to the recent captaincy task. Mridul Tiwari was quick to respond, saying, “He just clapped.”

Salman then issued a stern warning to Gaurav, stating, “Every actor should be scared of this one word: ‘overrated hai yaar ye.’ Fans might think your footage is getting cut, but how do we tell them that you’re simply not making it to the cut?”

Additionally, Salman advised Mridul Tiwari to boost his gameplay. He pointed out, “You are always playing under someone’s shadow in the house. You seem to have fallen in the plus one category,” encouraging him to play more independently.

Since its premiere on August 24 this year, *Bigg Boss 19* has been captivating audiences with unexpected twists and a vibrant mix of contestants. This season features participants like Kunickaa Sadanand, Amaal Mallik, Pranit More, Baseer Ali, and Farrhana Bhatt, alongside Gaurav Khanna and Mridul Tiwari.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Bigg Boss house!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bigg-boss-19-salman-khan-blasts-gaurav-khanna/story

‘BB 19’: Salman schools Gaurav, questions his contribution to show

**‘BB 19’: Salman Khan Schools Gaurav Khanna, Questions His Contribution to the Show**

*By Isha Sharma | September 21, 2025 | 10:20 AM*

The latest episode of *Bigg Boss 19 Weekend Ka Vaar* saw host Salman Khan taking a sharp dig at actor Gaurav Khanna for his lackluster performance inside the Bigg Boss house.

Addressing Gaurav directly, Salman remarked, “Gaurav, you seem nervous playing on the front foot. In the whole week, you were visible for barely 20 minutes, blink and you’re gone.”

The popular reality show is currently streaming on JioHotstar and airs on Colors TV.

Salman didn’t stop there. He questioned the other housemates about Gaurav’s contribution to the captaincy task. Mridul Tiwari quickly responded, “He just clapped.”

Further putting Gaurav on notice, Salman warned, “Every actor should be scared of this one word: ‘overrated hai yaar ye.’ Fans might think your footage is getting cut, but how do we tell them that you’re only not making it to the cut.”

In addition to addressing Gaurav, Salman also gave advice to Mridul Tiwari. Noticing Tiwari’s tendency to stay under the radar, Salman said, “You are always playing under someone’s shadow in the house. You seem to have fallen in the plus one category.” He encouraged Tiwari to play independently and up his game.

Since its premiere on August 24, *Bigg Boss 19* has been keeping viewers hooked with its unexpected twists and engaging interactions. Alongside Gaurav Khanna and Mridul Tiwari, contestants Kunickaa Sadanand, Amaal Mallik, Pranit More, Baseer Ali, and Farrhana Bhatt have also been part of the intense reality journey.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bigg-boss-19-salman-khan-blasts-gaurav-khanna/story

‘BB 19’: Salman schools Gaurav, questions his contribution to show

**‘BB 19’: Salman Schools Gaurav, Questions His Contribution to the Show**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 10:20 AM*

The latest episode of *Bigg Boss 19 Weekend Ka Vaar* featured host Salman Khan taking a sharp dig at actor Gaurav Khanna for his lackluster performance inside the house. Salman remarked, “Gaurav, you seem nervous playing on the front foot. In the whole week, you were visible for barely 20 minutes, blink and you’re gone.”

Streaming on JioHotstar and airing on Colors TV, the reality show continues to captivate audiences with intense drama and unexpected twists.

Salman further questioned the housemates about Gaurav’s contribution during the captaincy task. To this, Mridul Tiwari quipped, “He just clapped.”

Issuing a pointed warning to Gaurav, Salman added, “Every actor should be scared of this one word: ‘overrated hai yaar ye.’ Fans might think your footage is getting cut, but how do we tell them that you’re only not making it to the cut?”

In addition to addressing Gaurav’s performance, Salman advised Mridul Tiwari to step up his game and play independently. “You are always playing under someone’s shadow in the house. You seem to have fallen in the plus one category,” Salman noted.

Since its premiere on August 24 this year, *Bigg Boss 19* has kept viewers hooked with its dramatic twists and turns. Alongside Gaurav Khanna and Mridul Tiwari, contestants Kunickaa Sadanand, Amaal Mallik, Pranit More, Baseer Ali, and Farrhana Bhatt continue to battle it out inside the house.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bigg-boss-19-salman-khan-blasts-gaurav-khanna/story

T20 Asia Cup 2025 first stage and tri-series round up

**T20 Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan’s Journey and Performance Analysis**

The T20 Asia Cup 2025 is currently underway in the UAE, with Pakistan entering the tournament on the back of a confident and impressive run, having recently won the T20 Tri-Nation Series. Their triumph in the final against Afghanistan was a significant morale booster, setting high expectations for their Asia Cup campaign.

### Pakistan’s Asia Cup Campaign So Far

Pakistan kicked off their Asia Cup journey against Oman, delivering a commanding performance. Batting first, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 160/7. Wicketkeeper-batsman Muhammad Haris, batting at number 3, impressed with a brilliant 66 off 43 balls, striking at an impressive rate of 153.48, including 3 sixes and 7 boundaries.

The bowling unit then dismantled Oman’s batting lineup, bowling them out for a mere 67 runs in just 16.4 overs. The highlight was Pakistan’s spin attack combination — the spin trio of Muhammad Nawaz, Sufyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed — alongside the experienced Saim Ayub, who collectively shared the wickets and flattened the opposition with great control.

### Clash Against India: A Need for Improvement

Pakistan’s second match saw a tough rivalry clash against arch-rivals India, where unfortunately, Pakistan suffered a heavy defeat. Opting to bat first, Pakistan managed only a below-par 127/9. Nevertheless, Shaheen Afridi’s quickfire cameo of 33 not out off just 16 balls, featuring 4 sixes, was a silver lining batting at number 9.

India chased down the modest target comfortably in 15.5 overs, led by skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 47 off 37 balls. Notably, Shaheen Afridi targeted the key Indian bowlers, including Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, hitting powerful sixes and boundaries. This signified that these bowlers can be vulnerable and are targetable, raising questions about Pakistan’s top-order batsmen’s struggles.

### Batting Concerns and Strategy Suggestions

It becomes clear that Pakistan’s batting approach needs urgent revision. The current “kamikaze” style is self-destructive and ineffective against disciplined bowling attacks. Instead, Pakistan should adopt a balanced method combining flair with stability, mixing strike rotation with boundary hitting.

A one-dimensional assault won’t suffice; calculated aggression anchored by strategic innings-building is essential to set or chase formidable totals. Proper cricketing shots and shot selection must be emphasized. For example, had Pakistan posted around 170 against India, the chase could have been far more challenging for their opponents, given Pakistan’s dynamic bowling arsenal featuring both pace and spin options.

Shaheen Afridi was the standout bowler for Pakistan in this match, taking 3 wickets for 28 runs in 4 overs. However, the batting line-up must consistently provide defendable totals for such a well-rounded bowling unit.

### Team Composition and Batting Order Adjustments

Wicket-taking spinner Sufyan Muqeem remains a vital asset for Pakistan and deserves continued backing with consistent opportunities. Meanwhile, Saim Ayub has struggled with the bat, registering three consecutive ducks in Asia Cup games. It may be worth experimenting by promoting Fakhar Zaman — who is in good form — to an opening position and pushing Ayub to number 3. Fakhar has a successful history opening for Pakistan and can stabilize the top order.

Pakistan’s latest match in the initial round against UAE was a must-win, and they delivered, progressing to the Super Four stage. Despite Saim Ayub’s continued batting woes, Fakhar Zaman scored a crucial 50 off 36 balls, anchored by Shaheen Afridi’s explosive 29 off 14 from the lower order. Pakistan posted 146/9, then restricted UAE to 105, with the bowling attack once again firing on all cylinders.

### Reading Spin: An Area for Improvement

One noticeable challenge for Pakistan’s batsmen has been reading spin bowling from the hand. Except for Captain Salman Agha, most have had difficulty adjusting to variations. The batsmen should train more on reading the spin from the pitch and preparing for the deliveries accordingly.

Additionally, reconsidering the batting order to maximize player strengths could be beneficial. For example, opening with Muhammad Haris and Fakhar Zaman could best utilize Haris’ timing and skill during the powerplay overs. Haris’ courageous innings of 41 runs off 20 balls in Auckland against New Zealand in 2024 showcased his ability to accelerate and clear the boundary efficiently.

### Looking Ahead: Super Four Round and Final Thoughts

Pakistan’s first Super Four match will be a high-octane rematch against India on September 21. Learning from previous encounters and refining their batting approach will be crucial.

Reflecting on their recent Tri-Nation Series final victory against Afghanistan in Sharjah, Pakistan displayed sheer dominance. Facing a spin-friendly and tricky surface, Pakistan managed a respectable 141/8 batting first. Coach Mike Hesson and Skipper Salman Agha were confident that the total would be challenging for Afghan batsmen.

In response, Afghanistan was bowled out for just 66 runs in 15.5 overs. The specialist spin trio of Nawaz, Abrar, and Muqeem were instrumental, with Muhammad Nawaz particularly standing out, claiming 5 wickets including a hat-trick, while maintaining an economy rate of 4.75. Nawaz also contributed with a valuable 25-run cameo earlier. Pakistan’s spin-heavy strategy effectively gave Afghanistan a taste of their own medicine on home conditions.

### Conclusion

Pakistan’s campaign in the T20 Asia Cup 2025 has been a mixture of dominance and areas requiring improvement. Their bowling attack, especially the spinners, has been exceptional and remains a key strength. However, the batting lineup must overcome its vulnerabilities by adopting a more balanced and strategic approach.

The upcoming matches in the Super Four stage present Pakistan with an opportunity to build momentum and showcase their full potential. With tactical adjustments and consistent performances, Pakistan can emerge as a formidable contender in this edition of the Asia Cup.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345092-t20-asia-cup-2025-first-stage-and-tri-series-round-up

Good fortune on gig economy

One of the more delightful mainstream films at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) was *Good Fortune*, an American film in English featured in a Gala presentation. Directed by American comedian Aziz Ansari, who has roots in Tamil Nadu, the film also stars Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh. *Good Fortune* is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release, including in India, on October 17, 2025.

From the South Asian diaspora at TIFF, two diverse features explored the evils of capitalism. One of these was Aneil Karia’s *Hamlet*, presented as a Centrepiece film. This powerful British adaptation of Shakespeare’s great tragedy is performed in both Punjabi and Shakespearean English, starring Riz Ahmed and Sheeba Chaddha.

*Good Fortune* continues the growing trend of comedians becoming film actors, stars, and directors—following in the footsteps of icons such as Charlie Chaplin, Chris Rock, and Jordan Peele. This mirrors a historical shift when singers became film stars with the advent of sound in cinema, a trend also seen with India’s own Kapil Sharma.

The story centers on an angel named Gabriel (played by Keanu Reeves), a lowly angel with small wings whose duties are limited to preventing people from texting and driving simultaneously. Gabriel’s life changes when he observes the struggles of Arj (Aziz Ansari), a gig worker delivering for an app-based company. Arj juggles multiple shifts, barely manages to feed himself, and is forced to sleep in his car, which eventually gets towed due to unpaid parking tickets.

Out of compassion, Gabriel swaps lives with Jeff (Seth Rogen), a wealthy venture capitalist whose California mansion Arj regularly delivers goods to. Gabriel expects that Arj will soon realize the flaws of the wealthy, carefree life and want to swap back to his humble existence. However, to Gabriel’s surprise, Arj enjoys his new life—sipping cocktails by the pool—and has no intention of returning to his previous hardships.

The film’s narrative borrows elements from several classics: Wim Wenders’ *Wings of Desire* (1987), where an angel comes to Earth; the body-swap comedy *Freaky Friday*; and nods to Frank Capra’s *It’s a Wonderful Life*, in which a man contemplating suicide reconsiders after reflecting on his selfless acts and the impact he has made.

*Good Fortune* employs some narrative back-and-forth, with Gabriel visible only to Arj, mixing laugh-out-loud comedy with poignant moments. The film highlights the hearts of gold found at the bottom of the gig economy—such as Arj’s on-again, off-again partner, who dreams of starting a union to fight for workers’ rights, not just for those fortunate enough to currently benefit.

Keanu Reeves’ deadpan portrayal of the angel anchors the film, while Seth Rogen delivers a dry wit in his role. Aziz Ansari, who co-created and directed 11 episodes of the critically acclaimed Netflix series *Master of None*, as well as his 2022 comedy special *Nightclub Comedian*, brings his distinct voice to this project.

Presented by Lionsgate, *Good Fortune* is backed by producers Aziz Ansari, Anthony Katagas, and Alan Yang. Executive producers include Aniz Adam Ansari, Jonathan McCoy, Christopher Woodrow, and Connor DiGregorio. In India, the film will be distributed by PVR INOX Pictures.

Meenakshi Shedde, a film curator with 30 years of experience working with Toronto, Berlin, and other international film festivals, has played roles such as Cannes Film Festival Jury Member and Golden Globes International Voter. She is also a respected journalist and critic. You can reach her at meenakshi.shedde@mid-day.com.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/good-fortune-on-gig-economy-23595011