MAM
Honour India’s freedom fighters with these must-watch films and audiobooks
MUMBAI: Martyrs’ Day commemorates the valour of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru, who gave their lives for India’s independence. Their unwavering defiance against British rule and deep commitment to the nation continue to inspire generations.
To honour their legacy, here are six impactful audiobooks and films that bring their ideals, struggles, and sacrifices to life. This Shaheed Diwas, immerse yourself in these stirring accounts of India’s fight for freedom.
To listen
Why I Am an Atheist and Other Works (Audible)
A compelling collection of Bhagat’s writings, offering a rare insight into his revolutionary mind. From challenging religious faith to defending his beliefs in the face of death, this audiobook sheds light on his intellect and unwavering spirit.
Jail Diary of Bhagat Singh (Audible)
During his final months, Bhagat penned thoughts on socialism, freedom, and revolution, drawing inspiration from Lenin, Tagore, and Ghalib. His diary presents a deeply philosophical and intellectual perspective beyond the legend.
Without Fear (Audible)
Authored by Kuldip Nayar, this audiobook explores Bhagat beyond his martyrdom his ideology, vision for an egalitarian society, and the betrayals that shaped his fate. A powerful listen that redefines his legacy.
To watch
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (Amazon Prime video)
Starring Ajay Devgn, this gripping retelling follows Bhagat’s journey from witnessing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to his fearless acts of defiance, culminating in his execution on 23 March 1931.
23 March 1931 Shaheed (Amazon Prime video)
Bobby Deol portrays Bhagat Singh in this powerful film that chronicles his response to Lala Lajpat Rai’s death, his ultimate sacrifice, and how it fuelled the independence movement.
Rang De Basanti (Netflix)
A modern-day tribute, this film follows a group of university students who, while portraying freedom fighters, realise their own role in fighting injustice today. Featuring Aamir Khan, it questions the true meaning of patriotism.
This Martyrs’ Day, remember the heroes who shaped India’s destiny through these moving stories that continue to inspire.
MAM
BLR Airport Launches ‘Connections’ Service to Ease Transit Travel
New initiative targets smoother transfers as Bengaluru hub traffic rises 30 per cent.
MUMBAI: Missed connections may be a traveller’s nightmare but Bengaluru is trying to make them a thing of the past. Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has rolled out ‘Connections by BLR’, a new transfer programme designed to take the friction out of connecting journeys. Built around three pillars ease, efficiency and experience,the initiative aims to simplify what is often the most stressful leg of air travel.
The move comes as transfer traffic at BLR Airport climbs sharply, up more than 30 per cent year-on-year. Transfers currently account for around 15 per cent of total passenger traffic and are projected to touch 20 per cent by 2026, signalling a clear shift in how the airport is positioning itself within airline networks.
At its core, the programme focuses on making navigation intuitive and downtime more comfortable. Dedicated transfer desks have been set up across terminals, supported by colour-coded wayfinding blue and yellow signage designed for quick recognition. Inter-terminal movement is being streamlined through complimentary shuttle services with predictable wait times, while designated transfer zones aim to reduce passenger confusion.
Beyond logistics, the airport is leaning into experience. Travellers in transit now have access to a wider choice of lounges, curated retail and food and beverage options, as well as sleeping pods for short stays. For longer layovers, transit hotels in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 offer boutique in-terminal accommodation, an increasingly sought-after feature as global travel patterns evolve.
The timing is strategic. BLR Airport now connects to 114 passenger destinations 80 domestic and 34 international with key routes spanning Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Pune domestically, and Singapore, London Heathrow, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Kuala Lumpur internationally. Recent additions such as Hindon, Bidar and Silchar within India, alongside Dammam, Hanoi and Riyadh overseas, are further expanding its reach.
Infrastructure is also catching up with ambition. Developments including the West Cross Taxiway, Terminal 1 refurbishment and Terminal 2 expansion are laying the groundwork for higher capacity and smoother operations critical for any airport aiming to become a serious transfer hub.
Bangalore International Airport Limited chief operating officer Girish Nair framed the initiative as both a response to demand and a forward-looking play. He pointed to the growing depth of the airport’s network and the opportunity to build a more reliable transfer ecosystem that benefits both passengers and airline partners.
In an era where travel is as much about transitions as destinations, BLR Airport is betting that a seamless connection might just be the journey’s most important upgrade.
