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Chhath Puja 2026 Day 1: Nahay Khay Date, Rituals, Kaddu Bhaat and Vrat Rules on November 13
Nahay Khay 2026 will be observed on November 13, marking the first day of Chhath Puja. This complete Day 1 guide covers the four-day festival calendar, Nahay Khay rituals, Ganga Snan, home and kitchen cleanliness, and the traditional kaddu-bhaat meal of lauki, chana dal and rice. It also explains the essential samagri, food rules and when the extended nirjala fast begins after Kharna.
Why Chhath Puja Has No Idols or Priests: The Sun-Worship Ritual That's Different From Every Other Festival
Chhath Puja stands apart from many Hindu festivals because devotees do not depend on temple idols or priest-led ceremonies to worship. Instead, they offer prayers directly to the setting and rising Sun while standing in rivers or other water bodies. But why does Chhath Puja follow this unusual tradition? From its connection with nature and ancient Sun worship to significance of Chhathi Maiya, here is what makes this festival different.
Delhi's river tourism begins with the launch of Yamuna recreational cruise service
Delhi has launched its first ever recreational cruise service on the Yamuna River to encourage local tourism. This innovative program invites residents and tourists alike to explore the river's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With various engaging attractions on board, the service aims to stimulate regional economic activities and public involvement.
Nahay Khay 2026: New Saree or Freshly Washed? Know the Tradition Behind Ganga Snan
Nahay Khay heralds the commencement of Chhath Puja, embodying rituals centered on cleanliness and devotion. Adorning a new or freshly laundered saree symbolizes purity, guiding devotees into the fasting phase. Attention to clean garments is mirrored in the preparation of the Nahay Khay meal, with offerings crafted to honor the deities.
India's water journey a model for developing nations: World Bank official
India's water management initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission and Namami Gange Programme, are gaining international recognition. Senior officials at the World Bank have praised these efforts as models for developing countries. The upcoming United Nations Water Conference will highlight India's achievements and encourage knowledge sharing. India is actively preparing for the conference, emphasizing its role in global water security discussions.
'Shaken and worried': Sonia Gandhi speaks up about fighting cancer twice
Sonia Gandhi shares her personal medical challenges with cancer in her recently released memoir. After a breast cancer surgery in 2010, she discovered a tumor in her pancreas a year later. Gandhi underwent subsequent surgeries in Italy and the Netherlands, revealing the emotional turmoil these experiences caused her. During a campaign in 2016, she collapsed from fatigue, leading to another surgery for a broken shoulder.
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India's water management initiatives a model for developing nations: World Bank official
India's water management efforts, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, are being recognized internationally for their effectiveness. The World Bank highlights India's initiatives, including river restoration and dam safety improvements. These programs aimed at increasing access to clean water are now models for other developing nations. The upcoming 2026 United Nations Water Conference will provide a platform for India to share these experiences.
Extracurricular activities for children: How much should parents spend on classes beyond academics?
As parents spend more on soft skills, the challenge is to identify pursuits that offer lasting value. While the growing emphasis on extra curricular activities is a welcome departure from the traditional overemphasis on academics, enrolling children in multiple programmes because of peer pressure or FOMO (fear of missing out) can strain both family finances and children’s mental well being.
"Accused will be sentenced within 3 years": Amit Shah's big assurance as Uttarakhand Police gets President's Colour
Addressing the gathering at the ceremony, the Home Minister offered a major assurance regarding the criminal justice delivery system, stating that trials will conclude within three years for cases registered after May 2027.
Choti Diwali in North vs South India: 5 Traditions That Will Surprise You, From Ganga Snanam to Evening Diyas
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated with strikingly different customs across India. While many North Indian families observe it with evening diyas, traditional baths and preparations for Lakshmi Puja, several South Indian communities celebrate Deepavali itself with pre-dawn oil baths, new clothes, festive breakfasts and firecrackers. Here are five traditions that reveal how differently the same festival is experienced across the country.
15,000 trains, 100+ special train pairs and a Vande Bharat: Indian Railways has a big Diwali & Chhath Puja gift for Bihar passengers
Indian Railways will operate 15,000 trains to and from Bihar to manage the festive rush during Diwali and Chhath, compared with around 12,000 services under normal operations. More than 100 pairs of special trains have also been arranged on routes connecting Bihar with Delhi, Punjab, Mumbai, Pune and other destinations. The Railways has also discussed new train services and infrastructure projects in the state.
NHAI will dig up rivers to build highways: 1,078 lakh cubic metres of silt identified to tackle Bihar floods & speed up roadwork
The Centre and Bihar government have launched the 'Nadi Sanjivani' initiative to tackle recurring floods through river desilting while supporting highway construction. Under the agreement, NHAI will use 1,078 lakh cubic metres of excavated silt and sand in ongoing and upcoming national highway projects. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said the initiative could serve as a model for other states.
Rs 3.2 crore found in blue drums buried in UP village; police probe brothers' Mumbai, Pune links
The recovery of Rs 3.2 crore from three buried blue drums in Uttar Pradesh's Nawabganj has prompted investigators to examine two brothers' property purchases and financial links in Maharashtra. Their changing statements have complicated efforts to trace the cash, while excavation has resumed amid suspicion that more money may be buried at the site.
Naraka Chaturdashi 2026: November 8 or 9? Check Abhyanga Snan Muhurat and Krishna's Victory Over Narakasura
Naraka Chaturdashi 2026 will be observed on Sunday, November 8. The Abhyanga Snan muhurat in New Delhi is from 5:41 AM to 6:38 AM. Also known as Choti Diwali, Roop Chaturdashi and Narak Chaudas, the festival commemorates Lord Krishna's defeat of the demon Narakasura. Here is the date, puja timing, tithi, significance, rituals and the story behind the festival.
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.
Dev Diwali (November 24, 2026): Varanasi Ganga Aarti Timings, Deep Daan Muhurat, Ganga Snan and Religious Significance
Dev Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on November 24, coinciding with Kartik Purnima. Also known as Dev Deepawali, the festival commemorates Lord Shiva's victory over Tripurasura. Varanasi's famous ghats will glow with thousands of diyas during the celebrations. Know the auspicious Deep Daan Muhurat, Ganga Aarti traditions, puja vidhi and religious significance of this sacred Hindu festival.
Dev Diwali 2026: Why Is It Called the Diwali of Gods? Know the Mythological Story Of Lord Shiva's Victory Over Tripurasura
Dev Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on November 24, coinciding with Kartik Purnima. Also known as the Diwali of Gods, the festival commemorates Lord Shiva's victory over Tripurasura. Discover the mythological story behind Dev Deepawali, why Varanasi illuminates its ghats with thousands of diyas, and the religious significance of Deep Daan, holy bathing and Shiva worship.
Choti Diwali or Kali Chaudas? One Festival, Different Names—The Surprising Reason India Celebrates the Same Day Differently
Why is Naraka Chaturdashi called Choti Diwali in North India and Kali Chaudas in Gujarat? The same day is also known as Roop Chaudas, Bhoot Chaturdashi and Deepavali in different regions. While these observances share a place in the Diwali festival period, their rituals and religious significance vary. Here is how the same lunar day takes on different meanings across India.
November 2026 Kartik Purnima and Kartik Amavasya Dates: Tithi Timings, Rituals and Significance
As November 2026 begins, two important lunar observances in the Hindu calendar, Kartik Amavasya and Kartik Purnima, are approaching. Kartik Amavasya falls on November 8 and is associated with Diwali and Lakshmi Puja, while Kartik Purnima will be observed on November 24, coinciding with Dev Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti. Check the dates, tithi timings, rituals and religious significance of both observances, along with traditional practices followed across India.
'Lord Shiva's locks on river Ganga are loosening': Rainfall could get heavier as Himalayan permafrost melts, mountain rocks holding water are losing ground, warns expert
Climate author and entrepreneur Mridula Ramesh has warned that rising temperatures are melting Himalayan permafrost, weakening mountain slopes and increasing the risks of landslides and floods. Comparing the changes to Lord Shiva's loosening locks, she also explained how earlier snowmelt could leave less water for summer.
Global oil sanctions and chokepoints a means to hold prices hostage: Jaishankar
Addressing the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in Atlanta on Friday (US time), he said the world was facing an energy crisis driven not by a lack of production but by unpredictability, supply disruptions, unaffordable costs and difficulties in access.
Jaishankar calls for deeper Quad cooperation on energy security, counter-terrorism, maritime issues
Participating in the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Atlanta, Jaishankar said he spoke about countering non-market practices and increased economic stresses in the Indo-Pacific region.
India-Bangladesh Ganga water treaty renewal in doubt as December deadline nears
The 1996 India-Bangladesh Ganga water-sharing treaty faces uncertainty ahead of its December 12 expiry, with New Delhi unlikely to renew it automatically without a visit by Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman. Both countries are weighing changes to the agreement, amid India's rising domestic water needs and Bangladesh's push for revised allocation terms.
UP's first Vande Bharat Sleeper is here! New Delhi-Varanasi train: Timings, stoppages & ticket prices; PM Modi says it will connect faith with modernity
Varanasi-Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper launched: Indian Railways on Saturday expanded its Vande Bharat Sleeper network with a new service connecting Varanasi and New Delhi, offering passengers a faster and more comfortable overnight travel option. The service will improve rail connectivity between the two destinations, benefiting pilgrims, tourists, students, business travellers and working professionals.
Bangladesh opposition leader warns against Indian transit corridor, demands fair Ganges water deal
Nahid Islam, a leader of the National Citizen Party, warned against facilitating an Indian transit corridor through Bangladesh. He urged for a fair renewal of the Ganges water-sharing treaty, which expires soon. There are indications of potential protests if the agreement is not renewed to protect Bangladesh's water interests. Discussions on Bangladesh's partnerships are ongoing, particularly with Japan regarding regional development initiatives.
Despite instability in other parts, India has democratic stability, economic progress: Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused political forces of attempting to destabilise India for their own interests, while crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for economic growth and democratic stability. His remarks came ahead of Modi’s visit to Varanasi for an Indian Air Force air show and inauguration of a garment manufacturing facility.
Ashwin Purnima Snan-Daan Muhurat 2026: Ganga Snan Timings, Tithi End Time and Daan Guide
Ashwin Purnima Snan-Daan falls on October 26, 2026, a perfect day for devotees to engage in sacred ceremonies. The auspicious Purnima Tithi will commence on October 25, continuing until the morning of October 26. Participants are encouraged to take a holy dip and offer acts of charity post-bathing. Ganga Snan timings may differ based on location, so it's advisable to check local times.
'Wings Over Ganga': IAF's mega air show roars over Varanasi ghats; Rafale, Sukhoi steal the show
Thousands of spectators gathered along the banks of the Ganga River to witness the air show. The Indian Air Force showcased fighters, including Rafale, Sukhoi, and indigenous Tejas, demonstrating its air combat prowess. The event coincided with the IAF's 94th anniversary, highlighting India's military capabilities and heritage. Defence expert Sanjeev Srivastava emphasised the significance of this historical location for the aerial display.
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