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Baek Se-hee, Author of I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, Dies at 35

Tanisha Cardozo

Baek Se-hee, the South Korean author of the internationally acclaimed memoir I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, has died at the age of 35. Known for her candid exploration of mental health and her ability to articulate the quiet inner conflicts that many face, Baek leaves behind a legacy of honesty, empathy, and cultural impact.

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Her 2018 book, which was originally published in Korean, quickly became a cultural touchstone. Composed of a series of real conversations with her psychiatrist, the book offered readers a rare and unfiltered look into the daily struggles of living with persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). In doing so, Baek challenged social stigmas and gave language to thoughts and feelings that often remain unspoken.

The memoir struck a powerful chord with readers not just in South Korea, but globally. Following its English translation in 2022, I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki became a bestseller in over 25 countries, selling more than a million copies worldwide. Its title—juxtaposing despair with a craving for a beloved Korean street food—embodied the paradoxes of life with mental illness: the desire to give up, yet also the impulse to hold on for the small joys.

The circumstances surrounding Baek’s death remain unclear. However, in a statement released by the Korean Organ Donation Agency, it was revealed that Baek had donated her heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys—saving five lives in the process. Her final act reflects the deep compassion that marked both her life and work. A message from her sister included in the statement said Baek “wanted to share her heart with others through her work, and to inspire hope.”

In a world where silence around mental health is often the norm, Baek Se-hee wrote with courage and clarity. Her words made readers feel less alone. Her story became a mirror for many, especially young people navigating similar emotional terrains. Her book was not only a success in sales, but a rare example of how literature can serve as both a confessional and a collective healing space.

As tributes pour in from readers, authors, and mental health advocates, Baek’s work continues to resonate. Her passing is a significant loss to global literature and the mental health community, but her impact will live on in the hearts of readers she moved and lives she saved.

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Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer, Iconic Karna of Mahabharat, Passes Away After Battle with Cancer

Tanisha Cardozo

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, revered for his unforgettable portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, has passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. The actor, who rose to national prominence in the late 1980s, had been struggling with the disease for some time. Reports indicate that his condition worsened after a relapse a few months ago, culminating in major surgery. He breathed his last surrounded by his loved ones, leaving behind a legacy that spans myth, memory, and mentorship.

Known for his commanding screen presence, Dheer became a household name as Karna — the noble yet tragic warrior prince. His performance left such a deep cultural impact that textbooks used his image to depict the mythological figure, and in regions like Bastar and Karnal, statues inspired by his portrayal are revered by locals. Few actors in Indian television have experienced such mythic identification with a role.

His death was confirmed by co-star Arjun Feroz Khan, who played Arjun in Mahabharat. Posting on Instagram, he shared, “…will miss you PD. Stay Blessed,” along with cherished memories from their time on set. Others in the industry also mourned the loss. Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, expressed shock at the passing of what he called “a brilliant actor and a great human being.” He extended condolences to the family and informed the public that Dheer’s last rites would be held at Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai’s Vile Parle.

Pankaj Dheer’s acting career flourished well beyond Mahabharat. He played key roles in shows like Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, Yug, and Badho Bahu. His presence in Bollywood was equally significant, appearing in popular films such as Sadak, Soldier, and Baadshah. Even in smaller roles, his intensity and charisma made him memorable. He also starred opposite Archana Puran Singh in an episode of the Zee Horror Show, showcasing his versatility across genres.

Off-screen, Dheer was a passionate mentor and entrepreneur. In 2006, alongside his brother Satluj Dheer, he co-founded Visage Studioz — a shooting studio in Mumbai’s Jogeshwari. Four years later, he launched Abbhinnay Acting Academy in collaboration with fellow Mahabharat actor Gufi Paintal, nurturing young talent and sharing his decades of experience in front of the camera.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, actor Nikitin Dheer, who has made a name for himself in films such as Chennai Express and Shershaah. Nikitin is married to popular television actress Kratika Sengar, and together they continue the family’s creative journey.

Tributes continue to pour in from fans, colleagues, and admirers across the country. Many have remembered him not only as a legendary actor but also as a humble and graceful human being. His portrayal of Karna continues to resonate with generations, embodying a blend of strength, vulnerability, and honor that defined an era of Indian television.

As Indian cinema and television lose one of their most iconic faces, Pankaj Dheer’s contributions will remain etched in the hearts of millions. May his soul rest in peace.

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Goa’s Agriculture Minister and Former Chief Minister Ravi Naik Passes Away

allycaralgoa

Goa, Wednesday — The State of Goa is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and veteran leaders, Shri Ravi Sitaram Naik, who passed away on Wednesday. Naik, who was serving as the Minister for Agriculture, was also a two-time Chief Minister of Goa, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in state politics.

Born on September 18, 1946, in Ponda, Ravi Naik began his political journey in the 1970s and quickly rose through the ranks, earning respect across party lines. Known for his grounded leadership and approachable nature, Naik served as Chief Minister of Goa twice — first from 1991 to 1993 and later in 1994 — during critical phases of the State’s political evolution.

As the Agriculture Minister, Naik was a strong advocate for empowering farmers and strengthening Goa’s rural economy. He emphasized sustainable agricultural practices, innovation in farming, and improving irrigation systems to support the agrarian community.

Throughout his career, Ravi Naik represented the Ponda constituency, serving multiple terms as MLA, and remained one of Goa’s most recognizable and influential political figures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating:

“Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ravi Naik Ji, Minister in the Goa Government. He will be remembered as an experienced administrator and dedicated public servant who enriched Goa’s development trajectory. He was particularly passionate about empowering the downtrodden and marginalised. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”

As Goa comes together to mourn the loss, tributes continue to pour in from across the State and beyond for a leader who devoted his life to service, simplicity, and progress.

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Goa Loses Veteran Journalist and Konkani Stalwart Babli Nayak ; Passes Away at 73

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) has expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to senior journalist Babli Nayak, who passed away at the age of 73 after a brief illness on Thursday. Nayak, widely respected in Goa’s media and cultural landscape, was known not only for his journalistic integrity but also for his lifelong dedication to the Konkani language and Goa’s identity.

Nayak began his career with Sunaparant, Goa’s first Konkani daily, from its inception. He rose through the ranks to become its editor and remained with the publication until it ceased operations in 2016. His work at Sunaparant helped shape the discourse on Goan identity and linguistic rights during a transformative era for the state.

Beyond the newsroom, Nayak played a critical role in the 1986 ‘Konkani Projecho Awaz’ movement, which sought recognition for Konkani as the official language of Goa and pushed for its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He was also actively involved in the campaign for Goa’s statehood. His activism was not without sacrifice—he was arrested and jailed at Aguada Fort during the Emergency in 1975 for protesting against the suppression of civil liberties, as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Despite his substantial contributions to journalism and society, Nayak never accepted any awards or public felicitations. He chose to serve quietly but with unwavering dedication, earning the admiration and respect of peers across generations.

The GUJ has conveyed its deepest condolences to the family of Babli Nayak and acknowledged his unmatched role in shaping the media narrative in Goa. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who value fearless journalism and cultural advocacy.

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Chinese Singer-Actor Yu Menglong Dies at 37 After Fall in Beijing

allycaralgoa

Beijing, China: Chinese singer, actor, and model Yu Menglong has tragically passed away at the age of 37. His agency confirmed that the artist died on September 11, 2025, after falling from a building in Beijing.

The news, which first surfaced on Chinese social media platform Weibo, was later confirmed in a statement from Yu’s management team. “With unbearable sorrow, we announce that our beloved Menglong fell to his death on Sept 11. Police have ruled out any criminality. We hope he rests in peace and his loved ones remain strong,” the agency said.

Yu Menglong, also known for his roles in popular Chinese dramas and his music career, had been admired for his versatile talents as an actor, singer, and model. His sudden passing has left fans devastated, with tributes pouring in across platforms.

Born in Hunan, China, Yu first rose to fame in the Chinese entertainment industry as a singer before gaining recognition as an actor in web dramas and television. His performances made him a beloved figure in the C-drama world, where he was admired for his charisma and artistry.

Fans and fellow celebrities have taken to Weibo and other platforms to express grief and shock at his untimely death. Many have remembered him not only as a talented artist but also as a warm and humble personality who connected deeply with his supporters.

Yu Menglong’s death marks a somber moment for Chinese entertainment, as the industry mourns the loss of a versatile star whose career was still flourishing. His legacy in music and acting will continue to inspire.