Pooja was born in Kochi and raised on a mix of newspapers, pop culture, and too many questions. She studied Communicative English and Journalism before earning her Master’s in Journalism from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, and began her career interning at The Times of India and Channel I'M — where she later became a news anchor, scripting and presenting her own stories. Between deadlines, she’s worked across digital media platforms, covering politics, gender, pop culture, cinema, and everything in between. She has interviewed actors, creators, and changemakers, and occasionally edits her own video content — thanks to being certified in Photoshop and InDesign. In 2025, she joined the Asian Media Group in her first “official” newsroom gig, where she now covers entertainment, lifestyle, and the layered realities of South Asian identity. She believes storytelling should feel personal — even when it’s public — and likes to write not to please, but to provoke, question, and occasionally stir the pot.
Supriya Menon has identified the woman allegedly harassing her online since 2018.
The Malayalam producer named a US-based nurse in an Instagram Story.
She revealed the woman had also targeted her late father in recent attacks.
Supriya said years of silence ended after the abuse escalated beyond tolerance.
Journalist-turned-film producer Supriya Menon, wife of Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, has broken her silence on enduring seven years of online abuse. In a powerful Instagram post on Tuesday, she publicly identified the woman she claims has been behind relentless trolling since 2018, a Malayali nurse based in Chattanooga, USA, named Christina Eldo, also known as Christina Babu Kurien.
Supriya shared a filtered photo of the woman on her Instagram Story, writing, “Meet Christinaeldo. She has been passing nasty comments on most accounts which post something about me. She would constantly make fake accounts and post, and I continued to block her.”
She added that though she had uncovered the woman’s identity years ago, she initially refrained from exposing her, citing compassion for the woman’s young son. However, after discovering that the online attacks had extended to her late father, Supriya decided enough was enough.
The tipping point came when the woman allegedly made derogatory comments about Supriya’s deceased father. “Even that filter she has on is not enough to hide the ugliness she holds inside and spews at me since 2018,” Supriya wrote.
In 2023, Supriya had hinted at the ongoing abuse in a now-resurfaced Instagram Story, where she asked followers whether she should take legal action against a cyberbully who had been harassing her for years using fake profiles. However, it is only now, after another personal attack, that she chose to reveal the person’s identity.
Supriya has not yet confirmed whether she plans to pursue legal recourse, but her public stand has already sparked widespread discussion on the long-term emotional toll of cyber harassment, particularly for public figures.
Screenshot of the Instagram story where Supriya identified the alleged cyberbullyInstagram/supriyamenonprithviraj
Who is Christina Eldo, the alleged cyberstalker?
According to a report in The Times of India, Christina Eldo is a nurse currently residing in the United States. Her private Instagram profile has only 10 posts and around 77 followers. A promotion consultant from ETimes confirmed that she is originally from Kerala and now lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Despite operating under multiple fake accounts over the years, the woman was reportedly tracked down by Supriya using her consistent pattern of online trolling. Supriya stated that Christina had made it a habit to comment maliciously on every post or public mention involving her.
Supriya’s story has also reignited conversations about the challenges faced by women who are often overshadowed by their celebrity spouses. Speaking to Film Companion South earlier, Supriya had said, “People should see me as a separate individual. I am preparing to create my own name.”
A former journalist who worked with a major Indian media house, Supriya transitioned into film production after marrying Prithviraj in 2011. She now leads Prithviraj Productions and has co-produced hits like L2: Empuraan. Despite her own professional accomplishments, she continues to be primarily identified as “Prithviraj’s wife”—a label she has openly challenged.
A candid moment of Supriya Menon addressing a panel at the Kerala Literature FestivalInstagram/supriyamenonprithviraj
Will this trigger change in online abuse reporting?
While Supriya hasn’t filed an official complaint yet, her decision to call out her harasser publicly may encourage other women to speak up about digital abuse. In a world where trolling is often dismissed as trivial or “part of the internet,” her post sends a strong message: being silent is no longer an option.
Thousands gathered in Birmingham for Ozzy Osbourne’s funeral procession.
Sharon Osbourne broke down while paying tribute at the Black Sabbath bench.
The hearse passed key landmarks from Ozzy’s life, including his childhood home.
Fans and family laid floral tributes while a brass band played Sabbath classics.
Birmingham paid its final respects to Ozzy Osbourne, as fans flooded the streets to honour the legendary Black Sabbath frontman. His wife, Sharon Osbourne, was visibly emotional during the public procession, which passed by landmarks from Ozzy’s early years and ended at the Black Sabbath bench, now covered in tributes.
Thousands turned up to witness the rock icon’s final journey through the city that shaped his music and legacy. The crowd erupted in chants of "Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy!" as the hearse passed by, carrying purple flowers spelling out his name.
Sharon Osbourne overwhelmed by love as Birmingham pays tribute to OzzyGetty Images
Where did Ozzy Osbourne’s funeral procession take place?
Ozzy Osbourne’s coffin travelled through Birmingham on Wednesday, beginning at his childhood home on Lodge Road in Aston. The procession moved past Villa Park stadium and continued into the city centre, before stopping at Broad Street’s Black Sabbath bench, a memorial spot already filled with flowers, bat-shaped balloons, and heartfelt messages from fans.
Outside his childhood home, residents placed a framed picture of the singer in their window, while fans gathered quietly to observe the moment. The Jaguar hearse, escorted by six black Mercedes funeral cars and a police motorcade, slowed down to allow time for the crowds to pay their respects.
Birmingham stops still for Ozzy Osbourne’s historic funeral processionGetty Images
How did Sharon Osbourne and the family honour Ozzy?
Sharon Osbourne arrived at the memorial site flanked by her children Jack, Aimee, and Kelly. Each family member carried a pink rose wrapped in black paper tied with a purple ribbon, which they gently laid among thousands of other tributes. Sharon kissed her flower before placing it near a poster that read, “Birmingham will always love you.”
The family wiped away tears as they stood silently at the bench. Sharon hugged Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, Zafar Iqbal, who later described the moment as “incredibly emotional.” Fans shouted messages of love and support as the Osbournes took one final look before leaving the site.
Many fans spoke of how Ozzy’s music helped them through difficult times and made them feel seen. One fan, Goose, described Ozzy as “a family member,” recalling how discovering heavy metal in his youth gave him a sense of belonging.
Another fan, Evie Mayo from Wolverhampton, said: “He inspired me so much, I’m learning guitar just so I can play his songs. You can feel the hole he’s left behind.”
People of all ages gathered at the tribute, including 19-year-old Eddie Hayes, who travelled from Newcastle: “Ozzy was one of a kind. No one will ever come close to what he gave to music and to fans like us.”
From Villa Park to Broad Street, Ozzy Osbourne’s final ride shakes BirminghamGetty Images
What is Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy in Birmingham and beyond?
The Black Sabbath frontman, who died aged 76 last week, helped define the sound of heavy metal alongside bandmates Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward. Formed in 1968, the band laid the foundation for generations of metal artists worldwide.
Beyond music, Ozzy reached a new audience through reality TV with The Osbournes, alongside Sharon, Kelly, and Jack. His final performance was earlier this month at Villa Park, during a farewell gig featuring Metallica and Guns N’ Roses.
Tears, roses and rock as Birmingham says goodbye to its greatest icon Ozzy OsbourneGetty Images
Just weeks before his passing, Ozzy and his bandmates were awarded the Freedom of the City of Birmingham, a fitting honour for a man whose influence shaped not only a genre, but a city and its people.
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Vijay Deverakonda fans call Kingdom a redemption while critics say story fails to deliver
Vijay Deverakonda’s Kingdom released on 31 July to mixed reactions on X.
Fans praised Anirudh Ravichander’s background score and Deverakonda’s performance.
Critics called the plot underwhelming and the second half a letdown.
The film ends with a hint at a sequel, but for now, it’s a one-time watch for many.
Vijay Deverakonda’s much-awaited action-drama Kingdom, directed by Jersey filmmaker Gowtam Tinnanuri, finally hit theatres on 31 July. Touted as a patriotic spy thriller, the film stars Bhagyashri Borse opposite Deverakonda and features music by Anirudh Ravichander. As expected, the buzz around the release was huge, but early reactions on social media reveal a mixed verdict. While some fans have lauded the film’s technical finesse and performances, others caution viewers not to go in with high expectations.
6 years after Dear Comrade, Vijay Deverakonda brings back the fire in Kingdom Instagram/sitharaentertainments
What are fans saying about Vijay Deverakonda’s performance in Kingdom?
Searches around Vijay Deverakonda Kingdom review show that the actor’s fans are relieved to see him in form again. Several X users described the film as a “redemption” after a string of less successful projects. One user commented, “VD is back with a bang. His intensity and control throughout the film is commendable.” Another called it his “career-best performance.”
While his action scenes and emotional moments have been appreciated, some pointed out that the film didn’t offer much novelty. “The script is predictable, but Vijay carries it on his shoulders,” a post read. Actor Satyadev also received praise for his supporting role, while Bhagyashri’s character was considered limited in scope.
— (@)
How does Anirudh Ravichander’s music elevate the film?
If there’s one aspect of Kingdom that received unanimous praise, it’s the background score by Anirudh Ravichander. Social media users repeatedly mentioned his BGM as a major highlight of the viewing experience. “Mass scenes work only because of Anirudh,” one fan wrote, while another said, “The BGM in the interval and climax is beast mode. Goosebumps!”
Vijay Deverakonda himself acknowledged Anirudh’s contribution at a recent Hyderabad event, saying he had long dreamt of collaborating with the composer. Interestingly, delays in Anirudh’s score were reportedly among the reasons the film’s release was postponed three times.
— (@)
Is Kingdom worth watching? Here's what viewers are saying
While the first half of the film was called “gripping” and “well-paced,” the second half didn’t land for many. Some viewers felt the climax was rushed and lacked emotional depth. Others were disappointed by the screenplay, calling it a “routine action drama” and a “soulless template.”
— (@)
One user wrote, “Kingdom is a decent one-time watch, but don’t expect too much. Technically strong but weak on writing.” Another said, “Started off well, but the last 20 minutes lost me. Disconnect in the pre-climax was real.”
There were also tweets calling it a “blockbuster” and a “solid mass entertainer,” showing that the response has been far from unanimous.
— (@)
What’s next for Kingdom? Sequel hints and production details
The film ends on a cliffhanger, hinting at a possible second instalment. Producers Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya, under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, are reportedly planning a duology.
The technical crew also includes cinematographer Girish Gangadharan and editor Navin Nooli (known for Jersey), both of whom have received praise for their contributions to Kingdom’s visual storytelling.
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Vijay Sethupathi addresses recent allegations in a candid interview
• Vijay Sethupathi accused of sexual misconduct by an X user • Actor denies claims, calls them a ‘desperate attempt to gain attention’ • Confirms filing a complaint with the cybercrime department • Says timing suspicious as his film Thalaivan Thalaivii gains success
Tamil actor Vijay Sethupathi has publicly denied allegations of sexual abuse that surfaced on social media last week, dismissing them as baseless and attention-seeking. In a detailed interview, the Maharaja actor expressed disappointment over the impact on his family and confirmed that legal action has been initiated.
The allegations were made by a user on X, who claimed that the actor sexually exploited a woman known to her and referenced a broader culture of drug use and exploitation in the Tamil film industry. Although the original post was deleted shortly after it went viral, the claims generated significant buzz online, prompting the actor to break his silence.
Vijay Sethupathi remains composed as he responds to online accusationsNews24
What has Vijay Sethupathi said about the allegations?
In a statement to journalist Subhash K Jha for Deccan Chronicle, Sethupathi categorically rejected the claims, labelling them "filthy" and "laughable."
“Anyone who knows me even remotely will laugh at this. I know myself too. This kind of filthy accusation can’t upset me. My family and close friends are upset, but I tell them, ‘Let it slide. This woman is obviously doing it to be noticed. She has her few minutes of fame, let her enjoy it,’” he said.
The 47-year-old actor added that while he remains personally unfazed, his family has found the episode upsetting. He emphasised that such falsehoods should not be allowed to damage reputations without consequences.
Vijay Sethupathi files cybercrime complaint following deleted viral posttelugucinema.com
What legal action has the actor taken?
Sethupathi confirmed that his team has already approached the cybercrime division with a formal complaint.
“I’ve faced all kinds of whispering campaigns for the last seven years. It hasn’t affected me so far and it never will,” he said, adding that such campaigns were increasingly becoming a tool to malign public figures without proof or accountability.
He also criticised the unfiltered nature of social media, stating, “In today’s day and age, anyone can say anything about anybody. There are no filters. All you need is an account on social media, and you can write what you like without fear of repercussion.”
Ramya Mohan’s now-deleted post accusing Vijay Sethupathi of exploitation Reddit
What were the allegations made online?
The claims originated from a now-deleted post by a user named Ramya Mohan, who alleged that Sethupathi offered £1,900 (₹2 lakh) for “caravan favours” and £480 (₹50,000) for “drives.” She accused him of exploiting a young woman and acting saintly on social media.
Her post also alleged that Kollywood’s film industry has a “drug-sex nexus” and normalised exploitation under the guise of industry norms. She claimed a girl she knew had suffered due to such abuse and is now undergoing rehabilitation.
Although no concrete evidence was provided and the tweet was quickly removed, the post was shared widely, sparking online debate.
Ramya Mohan claims Kollywood is rife with drugs and transactional abuseX Screengrab
Is the controversy linked to Sethupathi’s ongoing projects?
Sethupathi suspects the timing of the accusations was deliberately planned to tarnish his reputation just as his latest film Thalaivan Thalaivii, co-starring Nithya Menen, is receiving a strong response.
“My new film is doing well. Probably, some jealous elements think that by tarnishing me, they can damage my film. It doesn’t work that way,” he stated.
One in five children aged 4 -15 now turn to YouTube first when using the TV
YouTube now ranks second overall in UK viewing, behind BBC and ahead of ITV
Viewers over 55 doubled their YouTube watch time in the past year
Traditional broadcasters face challenges reaching younger audiences
Ofcom urges fair terms for public broadcasters sharing content on YouTube
YouTube has become the most popular first stop for children watching television in the UK, according to Ofcom’s annual survey on viewing habits. One in five children aged between four and fifteen turned to the video platform first when switching on the TV last year, reflecting a significant shift in how audiences engage with content.
Netflix followed closely, while BBC One remained within the top five choices—matched by BBC iPlayer in popularity among younger viewers.
A generational shift to connected screens
The findings highlight YouTube’s growing presence not just among children but across age groups. Viewers aged 55 and above nearly doubled their YouTube watch time in 2024, spending an average of 11 minutes a day compared to six minutes the previous year. Notably, 42% of this content was viewed via TV screens.
Across all demographics, viewers spent an average of 39 minutes daily on YouTube, placing the platform second only to the BBC in total viewing time. ITV ranked third.
Traditional live TV viewing continues to decline among younger audiences. Viewers aged 16 to 24 watched just 17 minutes of live TV per day last year, and only 45% tuned into any broadcast TV in a typical week, down from 48% in 2023.
YouTube content increasingly mirrors traditional TV formats
YouTube has evolved to compete more directly with established broadcasters, with half of its top-trending videos now including formats such as long-form interviews and game shows.
This evolution is prompting public service broadcasters like the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 to rethink their digital strategies. While posting content on YouTube helps attract younger viewers, it also reduces traffic to their own platforms and shifts advertising revenue to the tech giant.
Ed Leighton, Ofcom’s interim group director for strategy and research, said: “Public service broadcasters are recognising this shift, moving to meet audiences in the online spaces where they increasingly spend their time. But we need to see even more ambition in this respect to ensure that public service media that audiences value survives long into the future.”
Balancing reach with revenue
Ofcom has urged broadcasters to increase their presence on YouTube, but only on fair commercial terms. Its chair, Michael Grade, has called for ministers to consider new laws ensuring greater visibility for public service content on platforms like YouTube.
Among UK broadcasters, Channel 4 has taken the lead, placing a significant amount of its content on YouTube. ITV has also secured a new partnership with the platform. Within the BBC, debate continues over how much content should be shared via YouTube. BBC News head Deborah Turness revealed that the corporation’s AI division will also focus on expanding its YouTube strategy, particularly to engage younger viewers.
Total viewing time remains stable as habits evolve
Despite changes in viewing platforms, the total time spent watching video content at home remained steady. UK viewers averaged four hours and 30 minutes daily in 2024—just one minute less than in 2023.
Traditional broadcasters still account for the majority of viewing time at 56%, but this figure is down sharply from 71% in 2018.
YouTube is also leading in audio consumption, used weekly by 47% of UK adults, followed by Spotify at 36%. The platform’s growing influence is also evident in the podcast space, where YouTube has become a dominant destination for listeners.
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MasterChef contestant Sarah Shafi edited out after challenging BBC’s decision to air series amid misconduct claims
Sarah Shafi removed from MasterChef after objecting to its broadcast over misconduct allegations
Gregg Wallace and John Torode dropped from show following separate investigations
Shafi said airing the show sends a damaging message about the treatment of women
BBC to air the series from 6 August despite the backlash
A MasterChef contestant has been edited out of the upcoming season after she urged the BBC not to air the show, citing serious concerns about misconduct allegations involving former hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode.
Sarah Shafi, a 57-year-old management development partner from Leeds, entered MasterChef in memory of her late mother, a pioneering Indian cookery teacher. But when multiple allegations against the two high-profile presenters surfaced, she asked producers to pull the entire series, not just her appearance.
BBC faces backlash for airing MasterChef despite contestant objectionsGetty Images
What led to Sarah Shafi’s removal from MasterChef 2025?
Sarah Shafi initially participated in the 2025 MasterChef amateur series, filmed last year. But after an independent report substantiated 45 allegations against Gregg Wallace, including inappropriate sexual language and one incident of unwelcome physical contact, and John Torode faced a substantiated claim of racist language, Shafi became one of the few voices demanding the series not be aired.
Shafi, who entered the cooking competition as a tribute to her late mother’s culinary legacy, said she was deeply disturbed by the BBC’s decision to proceed. “I didn’t say ‘edit me out’. I said: ‘Axe the show, don’t air the show.’”
She criticised what she called an "enabling environment" that failed to hold powerful men accountable. After a reportedly heated discussion with producers, she reluctantly agreed to be edited out, but only after the BBC confirmed it would air the show regardless of objections.
Sarah Shafi pictured in a still shared by the GuardianThe Guardian
What are the allegations against Gregg Wallace and John Torode?
Gregg Wallace, a longtime face of the franchise, was dropped by the BBC following the independent report’s findings. While Wallace issued an apology “for any distress caused,” he claimed he was cleared of the most “serious and sensational” accusations. He also publicly disclosed an autism diagnosis, which he said was often discussed but never acknowledged during his time on the show.
John Torode was removed shortly after, following the confirmation of a complaint related to the use of racist language. He maintains that the incident “never happened.”
Both men are absent from the upcoming season, but their past involvement in the already-filmed series remained a point of concern for Shafi and others.
Former presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode dropped after misconduct findingsGetty Images
Why did the BBC choose to broadcast the series anyway?
In a public statement, the BBC defended its decision, saying it consulted with all the contestants and found “widespread support” to go ahead with the series. “We understand not everyone will agree, but airing the show does not diminish the seriousness of the findings,” the statement read.
Shafi, however, questioned the moral cost of prioritising entertainment over accountability. “They talk about life-changing opportunities for the top 10 contestants. What about how life-changing, for the worse, it’s been for the victims?” she said.
She even proposed a solution: a spin-off episode celebrating contestants’ talent without involving the disgraced presenters, an idea she says producers dismissed.
Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, acknowledged Shafi’s opposition but reiterated that the majority of participants supported airing the series. “We are sorry that Sarah does not support the decision… her concerns were taken seriously and discussed with the BBC,” a spokesperson said.
Despite the backlash, the 2025 series of MasterChef is set to premiere on 6 August, with both former presenters now removed from future involvement.