A Year Marked by Shocking Incidents: From Rape to Assassination
The year 2024 will be remembered for its array of shocking incidents that made headlines across the nation. A mix of tragic events, historic achievements, and lavish celebrations defined this tumultuous year.
In October, India mourned the loss of industrialist titan Ratan Tata, who passed away on October 9 at the age of 86. His passing left a void in the nation's industrial landscape, with millions remembering him for his simplicity, dedication to animals, and philanthropic endeavours.
However, just days after Tata's demise, August saw the nation wake up to the horrific news of a 31-year-old doctor being raped and murdered at her workplace - R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The case brought attention to India's ongoing issues with rape laws, prompting widespread protesters who were met with harsh opposition from authorities.
As the year drew to a close, news of Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia making history by winning the prestigious Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival broke out. This achievement marked a milestone for the entertainment industry, as Kapadia became the first Indian to receive the festival's second-highest honour and scored India's first nomination in the Best Director category at the Golden Globes.
Tragedy struck again with the assassination of influential figure Baba Ziauddin Siddique on October 12, 2024. He was shot dead by three preparators in Mumbai while visiting his son Zeeshan's office. Reports suggest Indian gangster Lawrence Bishnoi was behind the plot.
Finally, July saw Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani's son Anant Ambani tie the knot with pharmaceutical tycoon Viren Merchant's daughter Radhika Merchant in an extravagant six-day wedding ceremony. While this fairytale-to-life wedding captured the nation's attention and cost approximately $1 billion to execute, it also sparked criticism for highlighting "wealth inequality in India."
In a year marked by tragedy, celebration, and historic achievements, one thing is clear - 2024 will be remembered for its dramatic events that tested the limits of Indian society.