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Current Affairs 05 & 06 April 2025
1. Hitesh becomes 1st Indian boxer to reach Boxing World Cup 2025 final
Hitesh Gulia made history by becoming the first Indian boxer to reach the final
of the World Boxing Cup 2025. He secured his spot in the 70kg final by defeating France's Makan Traore with a unanimous 5:0 decision. In the final, Hitesh clinched the gold medal after his opponent, England's Odel Kamara, withdrew due to injury. This victory contributed to India's overall tally of six medals at the tournament. Hitesh credited a 10-day preparatory camp in Brazil for enhancing his tactical skills and boosting his performance.
of the World Boxing Cup 2025. He secured his spot in the 70kg final by defeating France's Makan Traore with a unanimous 5:0 decision. In the final, Hitesh clinched the gold medal after his opponent, England's Odel Kamara, withdrew due to injury. This victory contributed to India's overall tally of six medals at the tournament. Hitesh credited a 10-day preparatory camp in Brazil for enhancing his tactical skills and boosting his performance.Foot notes:
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Historic Win: Hitesh defeated France's Makan Traore 5:0 in the semifinals, showcasing his tactical brilliance and controlled aggression.
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First Indian Finalist: He is the first Indian boxer to reach the final of the World Boxing Cup, a testament to India's growing presence in global boxing.
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Gold Medal Opportunity: Hitesh will face England's Odel Kamara in the 70kg final, where a win would make him the first Indian to claim a gold medal in the World Boxing Cup.
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Impressive Campaign: Hitesh's journey to the final included a 5:0 win over Italy's Gabriele Guidi Rontani in the quarterfinals, demonstrating his skill and dominance in the ring.
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India's Medal Haul: Hitesh's achievement is part of India's successful campaign in the World Boxing Cup 2025, where the country won a total of six medals, including one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals.
2. PM Narendra Modi Conferred Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Honour
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Sri Lanka Mitra
Vibhushana, the nation's highest honor for foreign leaders. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional and distinguished service by foreign heads of state or government, reflecting the deepening ties between India and Sri Lanka. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake inaugurated the construction of a 120-megawatt solar power plant and signed key defense and energy agreements. These initiatives aim to bolster India's strategic and economic influence in Sri Lanka, especially amid concerns over China's expanding presence in the region. The agreements mark a significant step in India-Sri Lanka relations, highlighting mutual interests in regional security and economic cooperation.
Vibhushana, the nation's highest honor for foreign leaders. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional and distinguished service by foreign heads of state or government, reflecting the deepening ties between India and Sri Lanka. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake inaugurated the construction of a 120-megawatt solar power plant and signed key defense and energy agreements. These initiatives aim to bolster India's strategic and economic influence in Sri Lanka, especially amid concerns over China's expanding presence in the region. The agreements mark a significant step in India-Sri Lanka relations, highlighting mutual interests in regional security and economic cooperation.Foot notes:
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Award Details: The Mithra Vibhushana was introduced in 2008 and is awarded to global leaders who have maintained friendly relations with Sri Lanka. Previous recipients include former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
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Recognition: The award reflects the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, recognizing PM Modi's efforts to enhance bilateral relations and promote regional peace and development.
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Medal Design: The award features a silver medal adorned with nine types of Sri Lankan gems, including symbols like the lotus, globe, sun, moon, and sheaves of rice, representing the shared cultural heritage of both nations.
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Ceremony: The award was conferred by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during a ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo on April 5, 2025. PM Modi expressed gratitude, stating that the honor is not just a personal recognition but also a testament to the strong ties between the two nations.
3. Indian hockey icon Vandana Katariya announces retirement
Indian women's hockey stalwart Vandana Katariya has announced her
retirement from international hockey, concluding an illustrious 15-year career. Debuting in 2009, she amassed 320 international caps and scored 158 goals, making her the most-capped player in Indian women's hockey history. Vandana played a pivotal role in India's historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Games. Her contributions were recognized with prestigious honors, including the Arjuna Award in 2021 and the Padma Shri in 2022. In her retirement announcement, Vandana expressed a desire to step away at the peak of her career, stating, "I want to bow out at my zenith, while I'm still at my very best." Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian women's hockey.
retirement from international hockey, concluding an illustrious 15-year career. Debuting in 2009, she amassed 320 international caps and scored 158 goals, making her the most-capped player in Indian women's hockey history. Vandana played a pivotal role in India's historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Games. Her contributions were recognized with prestigious honors, including the Arjuna Award in 2021 and the Padma Shri in 2022. In her retirement announcement, Vandana expressed a desire to step away at the peak of her career, stating, "I want to bow out at my zenith, while I'm still at my very best." Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian women's hockey.Foot notes:
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Record-Breaking Career: Vandana retires as the most capped player in Indian women's hockey history with 320 international appearances and 158 goals to her name.
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Olympic Experience: The forward has represented India in two Olympic Games, showcasing her skills on the global stage.
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Recent Match: Her last match for India was in the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in February.
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Emotional Farewell: Vandana expressed that her decision to retire wasn't easy, but she knew it was the right time, cherishing the memories of wearing the Indian jersey.
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Legacy: Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her contributions to Indian women's hockey will be remembered for years to come.
4. Bilateral Naval Exercise INDRA-2025 Concluded
The 14th edition of the India-Russia bilateral naval exercise, INDRA-2025,
successfully concluded on April 2, 2025, off the coast of Chennai in the Bay of Bengal. This exercise, held from March 28 to April 2, aimed to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime cooperation between the two navies. The event was divided into two phases: the Harbour Phase in Chennai from March 28 to 30, featuring professional interactions and sports activities, and the Sea Phase from March 31 to April 2, involving advanced naval drills. The Indian Navy participated with INS Rana and INS Kuthar, while the Russian Navy was represented by the destroyers Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov.
successfully concluded on April 2, 2025, off the coast of Chennai in the Bay of Bengal. This exercise, held from March 28 to April 2, aimed to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime cooperation between the two navies. The event was divided into two phases: the Harbour Phase in Chennai from March 28 to 30, featuring professional interactions and sports activities, and the Sea Phase from March 31 to April 2, involving advanced naval drills. The Indian Navy participated with INS Rana and INS Kuthar, while the Russian Navy was represented by the destroyers Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov. Foot notes:
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Exercise Overview: The 14th edition of INDRA was held from March 28 to April 2, 2025, featuring complex naval maneuvers and tactical drills to enhance interoperability and address shared security challenges.
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Objectives Achieved: The exercise aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation, promote global peace and stability, and enhance the ability of both navies to jointly counter maritime security challenges.
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Phases of the Exercise: INDRA 2025 was conducted in two phases Harbour Phase,Sea Phase.
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Enhanced Interoperability: The exercise facilitated the exchange of best practices, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's operational doctrines and enhancing the ability to operate seamlessly in complex maritime environments.
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Strategic Partnership: INDRA-2025 reinforces the strategic partnership between India and Russia in maritime defense, symbolizing their commitment to collaborative maritime security and mutual cooperation.
5. Mohsin Naqvi Appointed as President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC)
Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been
appointed as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), succeeding Shammi Silva of Sri Lanka Cricket. Naqvi has been serving as PCB Chairman since February 2024. In his new role, he aims to accelerate the growth and global influence of cricket in Asia by fostering collaboration among member boards. The ACC, established in 1983, comprises 30 member associations dedicated to promoting and developing cricket across the continent. Naqvi's appointment is expected to usher in a new era of leadership focused on unity, innovation, and strategic growth within Asian cricket.
appointed as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), succeeding Shammi Silva of Sri Lanka Cricket. Naqvi has been serving as PCB Chairman since February 2024. In his new role, he aims to accelerate the growth and global influence of cricket in Asia by fostering collaboration among member boards. The ACC, established in 1983, comprises 30 member associations dedicated to promoting and developing cricket across the continent. Naqvi's appointment is expected to usher in a new era of leadership focused on unity, innovation, and strategic growth within Asian cricket.Foot notes:
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New Leadership: Naqvi, who is also the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Pakistan's Interior Minister, has taken over as ACC President, marking a significant leadership transition in Asian cricket.
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Background: Naqvi was elected PCB Chairman in February 2024 and brings his experience and vision to the ACC, aiming to enhance Asian cricket's global impact.
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Predecessor's Tenure: Shammi Silva had a brief three-month tenure as ACC President, starting in December 2024, before Naqvi's succession.
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Key Challenges: Naqvi will face challenges such as deciding the venue for the T20 Asia Cup 2025, with India set to host, and navigating diplomatic complexities, particularly regarding Pakistan's matches.
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Vision and Goals: Naqvi has pledged to foster growth, collaboration, and innovation in Asian cricket, while praising his predecessor's contributions and thanking Jay Shah for his leadership as former ACC President and current ICC Chair.
6. Casagrand onboards Venkatesh Daggubati as brand ambassador for Hyderabad region
Casagrand, a prominent real estate developer in South India, has appointed
Tollywood actor Venkatesh Daggubati as its brand ambassador for the Hyderabad region. This strategic partnership aligns with Casagrand's plans to develop 2.74 million square feet of premium residential space in Hyderabad, including projects like Casagrand Evon in Kompally and Casagrand Windsor Court in Mankhal. The collaboration aims to enhance Casagrand's brand visibility and connect with homebuyers in Hyderabad's competitive real estate market. Venkatesh Daggubati's association is expected to embody the company's values of trust and excellence. The partnership will be supported by a comprehensive marketing campaign across digital media, print, radio, and outdoor advertising. This initiative underscores Casagrand's commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric residential projects in Hyderabad.
Tollywood actor Venkatesh Daggubati as its brand ambassador for the Hyderabad region. This strategic partnership aligns with Casagrand's plans to develop 2.74 million square feet of premium residential space in Hyderabad, including projects like Casagrand Evon in Kompally and Casagrand Windsor Court in Mankhal. The collaboration aims to enhance Casagrand's brand visibility and connect with homebuyers in Hyderabad's competitive real estate market. Venkatesh Daggubati's association is expected to embody the company's values of trust and excellence. The partnership will be supported by a comprehensive marketing campaign across digital media, print, radio, and outdoor advertising. This initiative underscores Casagrand's commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric residential projects in Hyderabad.Foot notes:
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Strategic Partnership: Casagrand, a leading real estate developer in South India, has partnered with Tollywood superstar Venkatesh Daggubati to strengthen its presence in Hyderabad's competitive real estate market.
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Brand Ambassadorship: Venkatesh Daggubati's appointment as brand ambassador aligns with Casagrand's values of trust, excellence, and customer-centricity, leveraging his popularity and credibility to promote the brand.
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Marketing Campaign: The partnership will be supported by a comprehensive marketing campaign across digital media, print, radio, and outdoor advertising, aiming to create an immersive brand experience and enhance visibility.
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Expansion Plans: Casagrand has ambitious plans to develop 2.74 million sq. ft. of premium residential space in Hyderabad, with projects like Casagrand Evon, Casagrand Windsor Court, and villa communities in Gowdavalli.
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Commitment to Quality: Venkatesh Daggubati praised Casagrand for its commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability, stating that the brand's focus on creating thoughtfully designed homes aligns with his values.
7. Seema Agrawal Named DGP of Fire and Rescue Services
Seema Agrawal, a 1990-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has been
appointed as the Director General of Police (DGP)/Director of Fire and Rescue Services in Tamil Nadu, succeeding Abhash Kumar, who retired on March 31. Prior to this role, she served as the DGP of Civil Supplies-CID in Chennai. This appointment is part of a broader reshuffle involving eight IPS officers in the state. Notably, Seema Agrawal had previously held the position of Director of the State Fire & Rescue Services. Her extensive experience in various capacities within the Tamil Nadu police force is expected to bring valuable leadership to the Fire and Rescue Services department.
appointed as the Director General of Police (DGP)/Director of Fire and Rescue Services in Tamil Nadu, succeeding Abhash Kumar, who retired on March 31. Prior to this role, she served as the DGP of Civil Supplies-CID in Chennai. This appointment is part of a broader reshuffle involving eight IPS officers in the state. Notably, Seema Agrawal had previously held the position of Director of the State Fire & Rescue Services. Her extensive experience in various capacities within the Tamil Nadu police force is expected to bring valuable leadership to the Fire and Rescue Services department.Foot notes:
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New Role: Seema Agrawal, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has taken over as DGP of Fire and Rescue Services, replacing Abhash Kumar who retired on March 31, 2025.
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Previous Position: Before this role, Agrawal served as DGP of Civil Supplies, bringing vast experience and leadership skills to her new position.
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Transfer and Postings: Her appointment is part of a major reshuffle involving seven IPS officers in Tamil Nadu, aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency in key areas like traffic, economic offenses, and enforcement.
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Responsibilities: As DGP of Fire and Rescue Services, Agrawal will oversee fire safety and emergency response services across the state, working to strengthen these services and improve public safety.
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Background: This reshuffle reflects the state government's efforts to optimize police administration and improve service delivery, with Agrawal's leadership expected to play a key role in this endeavor.
8. YuvaSpark Founder Akarsh Shroff Conferred with National Youth Award
Akarsh Shroff, founder of the Bengaluru-based NGO YuvaSpark, has been
honored with the National Youth Award for his significant contributions to youth development and social service. Established in 2018 during his final year of high school, YuvaSpark focuses on enhancing education and child welfare, impacting over 346,000 individuals across more than ten states in India. The organization has mobilized over 600 volunteers from 35 institutions to improve foundational literacy for underserved children and those with special needs.
honored with the National Youth Award for his significant contributions to youth development and social service. Established in 2018 during his final year of high school, YuvaSpark focuses on enhancing education and child welfare, impacting over 346,000 individuals across more than ten states in India. The organization has mobilized over 600 volunteers from 35 institutions to improve foundational literacy for underserved children and those with special needs. Foot notes:
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Transformative Work: Akarsh's organization, YuvaSpark, has digitized learning in over 600 anganwadi centers across rural India, benefiting more than 346,000 children in 10 states.
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Innovative Approach: YuvaSpark provides custom-curated academic content in vernacular languages, enhancing teacher training and child engagement in these centers.
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Youth-Led Initiative: Akarsh started YuvaSpark at 17, and it has grown into a nationwide movement for educational equity and innovation, involving over 700 volunteers from 35 institutions.
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Recognition and Funding: Akarsh received the National Youth Award from Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya at Parliament House in New Delhi. His organization has also secured funding from prominent institutions like Amazon, Boston Consulting Group, and Indian Oil, totaling 2.5 crore.
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Commitment to Social Impact: Akarsh opted out of campus placements after graduating from BITS Pilani to focus on his mission to improve education quality across India, demonstrating his dedication to social causes.
9. National Maritime Day observed on 5th April
India observed its 62nd National Maritime Day on April 5, 2025,
commemorating the historic voyage of the SS Loyalty, the first Indian-owned steamship, which sailed from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. This milestone marked India's entry into international shipping, breaking the British monopoly in maritime trade. The 2025 theme, "Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy and Green Growth," emphasizes the importance of sustainable maritime development and the role of youth in fostering innovation within the blue economy. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted the transformative era of India's maritime sector, driven by advancements in port infrastructure and a focus on sustainable shipping practices.
commemorating the historic voyage of the SS Loyalty, the first Indian-owned steamship, which sailed from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. This milestone marked India's entry into international shipping, breaking the British monopoly in maritime trade. The 2025 theme, "Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy and Green Growth," emphasizes the importance of sustainable maritime development and the role of youth in fostering innovation within the blue economy. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted the transformative era of India's maritime sector, driven by advancements in port infrastructure and a focus on sustainable shipping practices.Foot notes:
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Commemoration: The day commemorates the maiden voyage of SS Loyalty in 1919, marking India's entry into international shipping and breaking British dominance in maritime trade.
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Significance: National Maritime Day recognizes the maritime sector's contribution to India's economy and trade, with 95% of the country's trade volume and 70% of trade value dependent on maritime transport.
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Celebrations: The day is celebrated with award ceremonies, workshops, seminars, port visits, and educational programs focused on maritime security, sustainability, and technological advancements.
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Government Initiatives: Key initiatives like Maritime India Vision 2030 and the Sagarmala Programme aim to improve port infrastructure, shipbuilding, and coastal trade, enhancing India's global maritime presence.
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Awards and Recognition: The "NMD Award of Excellence" is presented to individuals who have significantly contributed to India's maritime industry, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
10. Veteran Actor Ravikumar passed away
Veteran Tamil and Malayalam actor Ravikumar Menon passed away on April 4,
2025, at the age of 71, in Chennai. He had been undergoing treatment for lung cancer at Prashanth Hospital in Velachery. Born in Thrissur, Kerala, Ravikumar began his film career with the Malayalam movie 'Lakshaprabhu' in 1968 and went on to act in over 100 films across Malayalam and Tamil cinema during the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his versatility, portraying both lead and antagonist roles, and also appeared in several television serials. His contributions to South Indian cinema have left a lasting legacy. The funeral was scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Chennai.
2025, at the age of 71, in Chennai. He had been undergoing treatment for lung cancer at Prashanth Hospital in Velachery. Born in Thrissur, Kerala, Ravikumar began his film career with the Malayalam movie 'Lakshaprabhu' in 1968 and went on to act in over 100 films across Malayalam and Tamil cinema during the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his versatility, portraying both lead and antagonist roles, and also appeared in several television serials. His contributions to South Indian cinema have left a lasting legacy. The funeral was scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Chennai.Foot notes:
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Early Life and Career: Born in Thrissur, Kerala, to renowned film producer KMK Menon and celebrated actress Bharathi Menon, Ravikumar was destined for the silver screen. He began his acting journey with the 1968 Malayalam film "Lakshaprabhu".
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Notable Roles: Ravikumar's versatility shone brightly in films like "Ullasa Yaathra" (1975), "Avargal" (1977), "Allauddinum Albhutha Vilakkum", "Aarattu", "CBI 5: The Brain", and "Veetla Vishesham". He seamlessly transitioned between Malayalam and Tamil cinema.
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Collaborations and Legacy: Ravikumar worked with industry stalwarts like Mohanlal, Mammootty, Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, and K. Balachander, showcasing his dynamic range as an actor. His contributions to Indian cinema have left an indelible mark.
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Television Career: In addition to his film work, Ravikumar made significant contributions to television, debuting with the series "Iyandhira Paravai" in 1997 and later appearing in "Jannal: Marabu Kavithaigal" and "Kannedhirey Thondrinal".
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