CULTURAL DIVERSITY
The new trends reshaping India's art market
Art Mumbai is back, showcasing a wider array of international exhibitors while highlighting the evolution of art collections. With community initiatives and social media playing pivotal roles, art accessibility and engagement are being transformed in India.
Chhath Puja in Mithilanchal and Bhojpur: How Maithili and Bhojpuri Traditions Make the Festival Special
Chhath Puja is celebrated with distinct cultural traditions across Bihar's Mithilanchal and Bhojpur regions. While Maithili folk songs and family customs define celebrations in Mithilanchal, Bhojpuri devotional songs and community gatherings give Bhojpur its unique identity. Explore regional food traditions, thekua, traditional offerings and four-day rituals that make Chhath an important part of Bihar's cultural heritage.
The much awaited Noida-Greater Noida West metro link, a mega museum and more: Inside the Cabinet's Rs 77,101 crore package
On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet approved significant proposals for infrastructure and business support across India. The government will allocate ₹3,230 crores for the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum in New Delhi. A metro rail project linking Noida and Greater Noida will receive ₹2,390 crores for development. Additionally, ₹62,370 crores will be set aside for NBS rates on fertilizers for the Rabi 2026-27 season.
UNESCO recognises 307-year-old Mahabharata manuscript preserved at Visva-Bharati
The UNESCO register preserves and highlights documentary heritage of major cultural, historical, and scientific significance across the region.
Sonia Gandhi reveals her rare exchanges with Modi, and what sets them apart
Sonia Gandhi reveals she has limited personal contact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during official gatherings. She notes that their interactions are often formal, marked by a lack of eye contact. Gandhi reflects on their contrasting visions for India, focusing on inclusiveness and social justice against RSS-inspired ideology.
US lawmakers introduce bill to make Diwali a federal holiday, 19 representatives back proposal
US lawmakers have reintroduced the Diwali Day Act in the House of Representatives, seeking to designate the festival as a federal holiday. Spearheaded by Congresswoman Grace Meng, the bill has secured the backing of 19 lawmakers, including five Indian-origin representatives. Its passage would make Diwali the 12th federally recognised US holiday.
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Shivakumar promises minority outreach meet, assures more support for Urdu Academy
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has announced a meeting next week with representatives of various minority communities. This meeting aims to address their concerns and discuss enhanced financial support for the Karnataka Urdu Academy. The Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding the rights of minorities and fulfilling election manifesto commitments. Furthermore, he noted the cultural significance of Urdu in connecting diverse communities.
Grandson of a vegetable seller in Egypt, raised by an imam father and a Michigan-born stepmother: The multi-faith family behind America’s first Muslim senator-elect, Abdul El-Sayed
Abdul El-Sayed, who grew up in a culturally diverse family, won Michigan's Democratic Senate primary. His father is an Egyptian immigrant, while his stepmother is a Michigan native. El-Sayed holds a medical degree and a doctorate in public health, focusing on public health initiatives rather than individual patient care. He has worked on various health projects in Detroit and Wayne County, addressing issues like medical debt and air quality.
Emmanuel Macron, Mark Carney, Anthony Albanese, leaders from across the world call for peace, prosperity on Diwali
World leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Anthony Albanese, extended warm Diwali greetings, celebrating the festival's message of joy and unity among diverse communities. The festivities were marked in India along with vibrant celebrations in Canada, Australia, and the UAE. Additionally, Thailand's Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival showcased the richness of cultural diversity, symbolizing the enduring ties of the global Indian diaspora.
'Trump has cost us': After midterm losses, MAGA asks if it's over
MAGA supporters are reflecting on the recent midterm election losses and their implications for the movement. Many are questioning Trump's role in the party's electoral failures and expressing frustration with party leaders. The elections have raised concerns about the future direction of the MAGA movement, prompting some to call for a re-evaluation of its goals. Discontent over economic issues like living costs has contributed to this disillusionment among supporters.
Ayodhya Diwali 2026 Today: Deepotsav Highlights, Ram Mandir Celebrations, Saryu Aarti, Dates, Major Attractions and Best Places to Visit
Ayodhya Diwali 2026 celebrations conclude with grand festivities following the three-day Deepotsav from November 5 to 7. Explore the Ram Mandir celebrations, Saryu riverfront diya decorations, Ram Ki Paidi, cultural performances, Deepotsav highlights, religious significance and the best places to visit in Ayodhya during the festival of lights.
Quote of the day by Boy George: ‘Life is kind of like clinging to a rock. You realise there are not really answers'. British music icon’s timeless lesson on accepting life’s uncertainties
Life seldom goes as we anticipate, regardless of how meticulously we prepare or how assuredly we foresee what’s ahead. As we age, we start to realise that nothing is certain and that not every challenging situation has a rational reason. Career letdowns, ongoing obstacles, fractured connections, and the death of cherished individuals can cause us to ponder why specific events occur and what we might have changed. Yet, life does not consistently offer the responses we desire.
Britannia looks beyond biscuits, turns to regional tastes and festive campaigns to drive FMCG growth
Britannia Industries is focusing on localised marketing to resonate with diverse Indian consumer preferences. The company has launched festive campaigns and brand activations targeting specific regional occasions. Britannia reported a year-on-year sales increase of 16.6% to Rs 5,542 crore for the September quarter. Their growth strategy involves expanding beyond traditional biscuits into bakery and adjacency products. The approach aims to sustain competitive growth amid rising competition from smaller local brands.
New York woman wanted American children to experience Diwali. How a mother's rangoli kits became a funded business
Indian American businesswoman Akriti Babaria established Kulture Khazana to enhance the visibility of Diwali and Indian cultural customs in the US. What started as an idea at a kitchen table has expanded into a toy brand serving more than 45,000 families, schools, and organizations, familiarizing American children with Indian festivals via books, rangoli kits, puzzles, and crafts.
Diwali Abroad 2026: How NRIs in the US, UK and Gulf Are Keeping Indian Traditions Alive Thousands of Miles From Home
Diwali 2026 is bringing Indian communities together across the US, UK and Gulf, with celebrations ranging from Times Square and London's Trafalgar Square to Dubai's Festival of Lights and temple gatherings in Abu Dhabi. As November 8 approaches, NRIs are marking the festival through cultural performances, traditional food, diya lighting, family pujas, festive shopping and community events. Here is how the Indian diaspora is celebrating Diwali abroad this year.
Johnnie Walker launches first India-inspired Blue Label festive blend in its 200-year history
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Festive Blend, crafted by the brand's Master Blender Dr Emma Walker, draws on the country's rich culinary heritage and flavour traditions, the company said in a statement.
Mahabharat star Shafaq Naaz lashes at trolls for insulting her for her Karwa Chauth celebrations: ‘Don’t be in India…’
Actress Shafaq Naaz has hit back at trolls who targeted her and her husabnd Zeeshan Pawekar for celebrating Karwa Chauth and said that she proudly celebrates festivals from different cultures. The Mahabharat star also urged her haters to unfollow her if her celebrating various cultures make them uncomfortable.
Dev Diwali 2026 in Varanasi: 6 Best Ghats to Witness the Grand Celebration, From Dashashwamedh to Assi Ghat
Dev Diwali 2026 will illuminate the ghats of Varanasi on November 24, coinciding with Kartik Purnima. From the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat to the spiritual atmosphere of Assi, Kedar and Panchganga Ghats, discover the best places to witness the celebrations. Check popular viewing spots, boat ride experiences and essential travel tips before planning your visit to Kashi.
Pema Khandu inaugurates Buddha relic exposition at Tawang Monastery after 13 years
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the inauguration of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha. The relics, returning after thirteen years, will travel through three districts for devotees. Chief Minister Khandu expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting the event and promoting the state's cultural potential. A new Arunachal Buddhist Confederation will be established to unite local Buddhist traditions and institutions.
Ferrari accelerates India push as 'market of the future', targets younger buyers while guarding exclusivity
Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari, who has been driving around Indian roads, talks about the need to be closer to the clients, how their Indian customer is younger than in the rest of the world and why Ferrari always makes one less car than what the market demands
Amit Shah says Sardar Patel did not get due recognition for contributions, flags off 'Run for Unity'
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the importance of recognizing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contributions to India. During the 'Run for Unity', he condemned efforts by the Opposition to diminish Patel’s legacy. Shah highlighted India's diverse linguistic and cultural heritage as a source of strength rather than weakness. He recalled Patel's role in unifying princely states and shaping India's geography.
IHCL and Ambuja Neotia Group announce new hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri
Ambuja Neotia Group plans to invest Rs 2,700 crore in West Bengal's hospitality sector, which includes new hotel launches. The newly opened AltAir House hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri are part of this initiative. A significant expansion of Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa in Darjeeling also forms part of the investment. The collaboration aims to enhance tourism and create unique travel experiences in the region.
PM Modi inaugurates, lays foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 400 crore in Ekta Nagar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. These projects are designed to enhance infrastructure and boost tourism in the region. Significant improvements include a sewage and water treatment plant, and the development of eco-trails. Floral tributes were also paid to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Jayanti 2026: Why is October 31 celebrated as National Unity Day? check history, significance and celebrations
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is celebrated on October 31 to commemorate the birth of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Various nationwide activities, including the Run for Unity and the Unity Pledge, foster participation among citizens. Schools and colleges engage students with competitions to illuminate Patel's legacy.
PM Modi releases Rs 19,000 crore under 24th instalment of PM-KISAN
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth over Rs 14,400 crore in Gujarat and released around Rs 19,000 crore under the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme. Projects include a bovine breeding centre, two Bio-CNG plants, Ahmedabad Metro expansion, Anganwadi centres and rail services.
CRC Group and Delhi Times host “Let’s Bring Back the Joy of Reading” in New Delhi
CRC Group, in partnership with Delhi Times, held a dynamic event to stress the significance of reading amidst digital distractions. Authors, educators, and prominent business figures shared valuable perspectives on fostering a reading culture in younger audiences. Two enlightening panel discussions delved into the impact of evolving reading habits on education and personal growth.
Diwali travel 2026: Bangkok, Phuket and Tokyo top Indian searches for overseas holidays: Agoda data
As the festive season approaches, Indian travellers are exploring exciting destinations both locally and abroad. With a marked interest in getaways to Bangkok, Phuket, and Tokyo, their domestic searches also highlight Goa, Puri, and Udaipur as favourites. Puri stands out with a remarkable 318 per cent increase in searches, showcasing the allure of its heritage and spiritual offerings.
Free Fire India release date: Garena announces October 28 launch, check download details and new features
Garena has officially announced that Free Fire India will be available for download on October 28, specifically tailored for Indian players. The launch will include a Diwali campaign that showcases India's rich cultural diversity through exclusive in-game items and themed artwork. Optimized for budget smartphones, the game aims for greater accessibility while prioritizing user data security by storing information on local servers.
256 US lawmakers back House resolution honouring Indian-Americans
US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi introduced a resolution honoring Indian Americans for their contributions to the US. The resolution is supported by 256 members of the House of Representatives. It also proposes the designation of July as Indian-American Heritage Month. This month commemorates the signing of the Luce-Celler Act, which allowed Indian immigrants to become US citizens. The resolution recognizes the cultural and professional diversity of the Indian American community.
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