SOCIO RELIGIOUS REFORM MOVEMENT
Chhath Puja 2026: Why Sugarcane, Turmeric Plants and Banana Leaves Are Used in Traditional Worship
Sugarcane, turmeric plants and banana leaves are important elements of traditional Chhath Puja celebrations in Bihar. These natural ingredients are associated with prosperity, purity, abundance and gratitude towards nature. From decorating puja spaces to arranging traditional offerings, discover why these agricultural products hold cultural and religious significance during the four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
Akhilesh Yadav accuses Adityanath of insulting Lord Krishna, says BJP will lose UP polls in 2027
Akhilesh Yadav has criticised Yogi Adityanath for his remarks regarding cowherds during a recent event. Yadav claimed that such comments disrespect the deity Krishna and reflect Adityanath's political weakness ahead of future elections. He also suggested that the BJP's communications indicate increasing anxiety about potential electoral defeats. Furthermore, Yadav noted that ongoing tensions between the BJP and Samajwadi Party may influence voter sentiment.
Masik Durgashtami (November 17, 2026) Date, Tithi Timings, Puja Vidhi and Significance
Masik Durgashtami will be observed on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the monthly observance falls on Shukla Paksha Ashtami. Devotees observe fasts, perform special puja rituals and recite Durga mantras to seek divine blessings. Check the November 2026 Ashtami Tithi timings, puja vidhi, fasting practices and religious significance of this auspicious day.
Auqib Nabi prioritises seam movement over pace in New Zealand ODI series
Auqib Nabi expresses confidence in his skills acquired from domestic cricket while preparing for the ODI series. He emphasises reliance on seam movement rather than solely increasing pace for effectiveness against New Zealand's batsmen. Nabi is gaining valuable experience by bowling to top-order Indian players during this tour. He acknowledges the need to adjust to New Zealand's bowling conditions for greater success.
Kedarnath temple portals closed for winter; deity's palanquin begins journey to Ukhimath
At 8:30 am, the doors of the Kedarnath shrine were ceremoniously closed after engaging in traditional rituals accompanied by Vedic mantra chanting. The day began at 4 am with diverse prayers and ceremonies. Once closed, the palanquin of Lord Kedarnath made its way around the temple, pausing in Rampur overnight.
Saba Ali Khan reveals why Sharmila Tagore converted to Islam before marrying Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi
Saba Ali Khan has explained the family and religious circumstances behind Sharmila Tagore's conversion to Islam before her marriage to Tiger Pataudi. She also spoke about whether the decision affected her mother's acting career, why the family did not insist on changes to her official identity, and how her parents raised their children with freedom of belief.
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Sonia Gandhi questioned Rajiv on Shah Bano case, he said he was trying to deal with it fairly
In her new memoir, Sonia Gandhi recalls questioning Rajiv Gandhi over his handling of the Shah Bano case and his attempt to balance religious rights with gender justice. She also revisits the Ayodhya dispute, alleging that the BJP-RSS's actions deepened communal tensions and eventually led to the Babri Masjid's demolition.
India rejects USCIRF remarks on gurdwara attacks, calls it 'blatantly political'
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also wondered why the USCIRF chose to remain silent on attacks on religious places in the US and on racial abuse targeting the Indian community in that country.
Vrishchika Sankranti 2026: November 16 Date, Sun Transit Into Scorpio, Significance and Rituals
Vrishchika Sankranti 2026 will take place on November 16, when the Sun moves from Tula (Libra) into Vrishchika (Scorpio) at approximately 7:40 PM IST. The occasion marks an important transition in the Hindu solar calendar and is associated with Surya worship, holy bathing, charity and spiritual practices. Since the Sankranti moment occurs after sunset, some Panchang traditions observe the associated Punya Kaal on November 17.
Rahu-Ketu Transit 2026: A Major Karmic Shift Begins December 5, What Changes For All 12 Zodiac Signs?
Rahu-Ketu Transit 2026 begins on December 5, marking a major astrological shift as Rahu enters Capricorn and Ketu moves into Cancer. The approximately 18-month transit, expected to continue until June 2028, may bring important themes involving career, finances, relationships, family and spiritual growth. Read zodiac-wise predictions to understand how this karmic planetary movement could influence all 12 signs.
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.
PSBs integrate ESG parameters into companies' credit risk assessment
Public sector banks are incorporating environment, social, and governance parameters into their credit risk assessment processes. Seven banks, including the State Bank of India, lead this initiative to enhance credit appraisal. They are developing climate risk frameworks for credit workflows and adopting standardized emission calculation methodologies. The EASE 9.0 Reform Agenda monitors these developments to modernize state-run lenders.
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.
Who Is Chhathi Maiya? The Goddess Behind Chhath Puja and Her Surprising Connection With Surya Dev
Millions of devotees pray to Chhathi Maiya during Chhath Puja, but who is the goddess behind the festival? Often described as the sister of Surya Dev and a protector of children, Chhathi Maiya also has mythological associations with Shashthi Devi and Devasena. Her identity is rooted in regional folklore, ancient beliefs and stories passed down through generations. Here is what devotees believe about the goddess worshipped during Chhath.
Seattle Diwali celebration disrupted by far-right activists with anti-Indian placards
A Diwali celebration in Seattle was disrupted after two far-right activists, Jake Lang and Thomas Allen, entered the venue carrying placards demanding the deportation of Indians and alleging a Hindu takeover of Christian America.
Bhai Dooj 2026 date and time: When is Bhaiya Dooj? Check shubh muhurat, tilak timings, puja rituals and the story of Lord Yama and Yamuna
Bhai Dooj 2026 date and time: Bhai Dooj 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 11, marking the special bond between brothers and sisters. According to Drik Panchang, the Bhai Dooj Aparahna Puja Muhurat will be observed from 1:30 pm to 3:46 pm, while the Dwitiya Tithi begins at 2:00 pm on November 10 and ends at 3:53 pm on November 11. Also known as Bhaiya Dooj, Bhau Beej and Yama Dwitiya, the festival is celebrated with tilak, aarti, prayers and the exchange of gifts.
Diwali Shubh Muhurat 2026: City-Wise Lakshmi Puja Timings, Amavasya Tithi and Pradosh Kaal
Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on November 8. Check the auspicious Shubh Muhurat for Lakshmi Pujan, including city-wise timings for Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and other major cities. Know the Amavasya Tithi, Pradosh Kaal, Vrishabha Kaal and important Panchang details for Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja.
Delhi steps up security for Diwali, deploys personnel across 15 districts
Security has been tightened extensively in Delhi to ensure safety during the Diwali celebrations. Police have deployed personnel at sensitive locations and crowded areas to maintain law and order. Special attention is being given to markets and public transport hubs to prevent any incidents. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. CCTV and surveillance systems are in place to monitor crowd movements effectively.
Mirwaiz disallowed to address congregation at Jama Masjid in Kashmir for second consecutive Friday
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq faced restrictions that prevented him from addressing the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid. His house detention has persisted for nearly a week, enforced by police deployment and barricades. Authorities have restricted access to him, denying visits from others during this period. These measures follow his previous sermon referencing a report on civil liberties and political engagements.
France braces for protests on Saturday as Yellow Vests urge 'mass disobedience'
French unions, student groups, and the Yellow Vests movement are preparing for protests in Paris on Saturday. The protests aim to address the increasing cost of living while demanding improvements in wages and living conditions. Authorities are set to deploy 70,000 police officers to manage the demonstrations, which follow recent unrest. The protests will also focus on issues impacting young people and pensioners across the nation.
Eligible CAA applicants to get citizenship by December 31: West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to expedite the citizenship application process under CAA by December 31. He highlighted that around 2.5 lakh applications remain pending due to previous government delays. Adhikari stated that training and administrative measures are being implemented to ensure timely application processing. Additionally, the state government will invest Rs 1,000 crore over two years to restore religious institutions.
West Bengal CM announces ₹1,000 crore corpus to renovate old Hindu temples
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a new initiative called 'Tirtha Kshetra Circuit' for temple renovation. The government plans to allocate Rs 1,000 crore over two years for this purpose. Renovations will be undertaken by religious institutions and the public to restore ancient Hindu temples and monasteries. Additionally, the state is preparing for upcoming religious festivals with special decorations in various districts.
Why Is an Owl Considered Lucky on Diwali? The Surprising Connection With Goddess Lakshmi
The owl holds an unusual place in Hindu tradition. Known as the vahana or vehicle of Goddess Lakshmi, it is associated with wealth, prosperity and good fortune. This connection has also given rise to the belief that spotting an owl on Diwali is an auspicious sign. But why was this nocturnal bird linked to the Goddess of Wealth, and what does the tradition actually mean?
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.
Manipur gunfight kills 3 cadres as govt forms peace panels across districts
A gunfight in Taodaijang village resulted in the deaths of three militants and injuries to six others. The clash involved the NSCN (IM) and the Zuf (J) along with other factions. Following the incident, the Government of Manipur has initiated the formation of District Level Peace Committees. These committees aim to enhance community dialogue and restore harmony in conflict-affected areas.
Bhai Dooj 2026 date & time: Is it on November 10 or 11? Check 2-hour-16-minute shubh muhurat, exact tilak timings, puja rituals & legend behind the festival
Bhai Dooj 2026 Date: Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on November 11, 2026, marking the bond between brothers and sisters. Check the auspicious Aparahna puja muhurat, Dwitiya Tithi timings, rituals and religious significance of the festival, also known as Yama Dwitiya.
Political Islam, the Italian left and the battle for Italy's streets
Youssef Siher's recent legal troubles have raised concerns about political Islam's influence in Italy. Pro-Palestinian movements have garnered the attention of various political parties ahead of elections. Conflicts surrounding proposed mosques in Turin and Mestre illustrate growing tensions in local politics. There is an emerging alliance between the left and Muslim community activists over shared objectives. It remains to be seen how these dynamics will affect the upcoming 2027 elections.
GST decriminalisation decisions set benchmark for trust-based governance: CII
The Confederation of Indian Industry praised the GST Council's recent decisions aimed at decriminalising certain offences. The Council recommended raising the prosecution threshold from Rs 1 crore to Rs 5 crore, promoting trust in businesses.
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