UNRESERVED TRAINS BIHAR CHHATH PUJA
1,000 extra trains between Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai to ease waiting lists, Railway ministry plans four parallel tracks on 7 major corridors
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said Indian Railways plans to expand seven major corridors to four parallel tracks, enabling more than 1,000 additional regular trains after completion. The routes include connections between Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai. The Railways has also deployed 18,000 special trains and 700 AI cameras for the festive rush.
Remain vigilant during Diwali, Kali Puja: Suvendu tells Kolkata Police after Chorbagan tragedy
Suvendu Adhikari addressed the tragic stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal that resulted in 19 deaths. He highlighted the importance of improved coordination between police and event organizers during major festivals. Adhikari urged caution for upcoming Kali Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja celebrations to avoid similar incidents. Nine arrests have been made in connection with the stampede investigation led by a special investigation team.
Lakshmi Puja 2026 Tomorrow: Which Direction Should You Face on Diwali? Check Vastu Rules for Idol Placement
Lakshmi Puja 2026 will be celebrated on November 8, during Diwali. According to commonly followed Vastu principles, devotees should ideally face east or north while performing the puja. But which direction should Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha face, and where should you place the puja altar? Here is a practical guide to Lakshmi Puja directions, idol placement, diya positioning and important Vastu guidelines to follow at home.
Hanuman Puja 2026 Today: Check November 7 Shubh Muhurat, Nishita Kaal Timings, Puja Vidhi, Mantras and Significance
Hanuman Puja 2026 will be observed today, Saturday, November 7, on the occasion of Kali Chaudas, a day before Diwali. Devotees worship Lord Hanuman through prayers, sindoor offerings, Hanuman Chalisa recitation and mantra chanting. The Nishita Kaal puja muhurat in New Delhi is from 11:39 PM to 12:31 AM. Know the date, timings, significance, rituals and mantras.
Masik Shivratri (November 07, 2026): Nishita Kaal Puja Muhurat, Chaturdashi Tithi, Vrat Vidhi and Significance
Masik Shivratri November 2026 will be observed on Saturday, November 7, during Kartik Krishna Chaturdashi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the monthly vrat involves fasting, Shiva Lingam Abhishek and night-long prayers. The Nishita Kaal Puja muhurat in New Delhi will be from 11:39 PM to 12:31 AM. Know the date, shubh muhurat, significance, puja vidhi, mantras and fasting rules.
Why Do Bihari Households Make Noise Early Morning After Diwali? The Meaning Behind Dalidar Bhagao
Dalidar Bhagao is a lesser-known post-Diwali folk tradition observed in parts of Bihar, in which families symbolically drive away poverty and misfortune from their homes. Performed in the early morning after Diwali, the ritual involves beating a traditional bamboo winnowing basket called a soop while chanting phrases asking Daridra to leave and Goddess Lakshmi to stay. Explore the meaning, traditional rituals, significance of the bamboo soop and regional beliefs associated with this unique Bihar custom.
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Saturday bank holiday: Are bank branches open today, November 7, 2026? Check details
Customers should mark November 7, 2026, on their calendars as banks will be fully operational on this first Saturday of the month. They will be able to process cash deposits, withdrawals, and cheque services. However, bank closures will occur on the second and fourth Saturdays. Additionally, with upcoming holidays such as Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti, it’s advisable to check the holiday schedule for effective banking planning.
Southern Railway runs 132 special trains, deploys extra RPF personnel to manage Diwali rush
Southern Railway managed the rise in passenger traffic during the Diwali season by operating special trains. A total of 132 special trains were run, along with additional coaches for 22 Mail and Express services. Key destinations linked include Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Bengaluru among other cities across India. Comprehensive security measures were implemented at major stations to ensure passenger safety and guidance.
Karmabhoomi Express fire: Passengers panic as four coaches catch fire near Sarai Banjara in Punjab
Four coaches of the Karmabhoomi Express caught fire near Sarai Banjara in Punjab, sparking panic among passengers on board. The exact reason for the fire is still unknown, prompting an urgent investigation by authorities. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or damage as officials work to gather more information about the event.
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.
Railway platform ticket sales suspended at six stations across Delhi and Ghaziabad; check the full list
Railway news: Northern Railway is implementing crowd-management measures at major railway stations in Delhi-NCR during the festive season. Platform ticket sales have been suspended at six key railway stations until November 14 to manage crowds. Special trains are being operated to accommodate the anticipated travel rush for Diwali and Chhath festivals. Enhanced passenger facilities, including holding areas, aim to improve the travel experience during this busy period.
Chhath Puja Geet: Popular Folk and Devotional Songs Sung During Nahay Khay, Kharna and Arghya
Chhath Puja Geet are an integral part of the four-day festival dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. From traditional Bhojpuri folk songs sung during Nahay Khay and Kharna to devotional melodies accompanying Sandhya and Usha Arghya, these songs reflect faith, gratitude and cultural heritage. Discover popular Chhath songs and the legacy of legendary folk singer Sharda Sinha.
The Vvaan OTT release update: When and where will the Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia starrer fantasy thriller stream online
Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia’s fantasy thriller The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest is set to make its digital debut. Inspired by folklore surrounding the 400-year-old Van Devi Temple in Bihar, the film follows an atheist man who encounters mysterious supernatural forces after entering a forest considered sacred by villagers. Check out when and where to watch the Deepak Kumar Mishra directorial on OTT.
Delhi friends take auto to Bihar after failing to get train tickets; 1,200-km journey for Chhath Puja wins internet's respect
Unable to get train tickets for Chhath Puja, a Delhi man named Rishav Thakur has taken an auto-rickshaw to travel to Madhubani in Bihar with his companions. The group is making the unusual journey after missing the festival at home for nearly three years. His videos have attracted attention on social media.
November 2026 Hindu Festival Calendar: Diwali, Chhath Puja, Dev Diwali, Guru Nanak Jayanti and Other Important Dates
November 2026 features several important Hindu festivals, including Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Gujarati New Year, Bhai Dooj, Chhath Puja, Tulsi Vivah and Dev Diwali. The month also includes Rama Ekadashi, Masik Shivratri, Kartik Purnima and Guru Nanak Jayanti. Check the complete November 2026 Hindu festival calendar for important dates, religious significance and observances across India.
Govardhan Puja 2026: Why Are Cow Dung Hills Made? The Tradition City Dwellers Are Reviving
Govardhan Puja is a celebration honoring Lord Krishna's protection through the crafting of cow dung mounds symbolizing Govardhan Hill. In urban settings, this tradition is adapted into smaller, more manageable versions using plates or trays. The significance of cow dung reflects the vital role of agriculture and cattle in Hindu culture. The celebration is filled with prayers and offerings, including Annakut, a feast presented to Lord Krishna in gratitude.
Why Chhath Puja Is Considered One of the Strictest Hindu Fasts: The 36-Hour Nirjala Vrat Explained
Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival marked by a demanding 36-hour Nirjala fast. Devotees abstain from food and water while engaging in various rituals and prayers. The fast begins after Kharna and concludes with Usha Arghya offered to the rising Sun. Special offerings, including thekua, are prepared to honor the deities during the festival. Health considerations are important as the fast can pose risks for certain individuals.
Chhath Puja 2026 Date: November 15 or 16? Check 4-Day Calendar, Nahay Khay, Kharna and Arghya Timings
Chhath Puja will be observed from Friday, November 13, to Monday, November 16, 2026. The main Chhath Puja observance, including Sandhya Arghya to the setting Sun, falls on Sunday, November 15. The festival concludes with Usha Arghya to the rising Sun on Monday, November 16. Dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya, it is marked by fasting, prayers, traditional offerings and rituals performed near rivers, ponds and other water bodies.
Chhath Puja Prasad 2026: How to Make Traditional Thekua and What to Keep in the Daura
Thekua is one of the most important prasad items prepared for Chhath Puja, while the daura basket carries fruits, sugarcane, coconut and other offerings for Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. Here is an easy traditional thekua recipe, the ingredients required and a practical list of what goes into the Chhath Puja daura.
Diwali 2026: Complete Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja Samagri List and Step-by-Step Puja Vidhi at Home
Preparing for Diwali Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja at home? Here is a complete puja samagri list covering the chowki, kalash, puja thali, diyas and bhog, along with a simple step-by-step puja vidhi to help you organise the worship. Having puja samagri ready in advance helps avoid last-minute confusion. While specific items/rituals may differ by region and family tradition, the following list covers the commonly used essentials for Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja at home.
November 2026 Festival List: From Dhanteras and Diwali to Chhath Puja, Dev Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti, check complete calendar of festivals and important dates
November 2026 Festival Calendar: November 2026 marks an important time for religious observances and celebrations across India. Significant festivals include Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, among others. Devotees will partake in various traditional rituals during these festive occasions. Important celebrations such as Chhath Puja, Tulsi Vivah, and Guru Nanak Jayanti will also take place in this month. The article provides an overview of dates and significance for each festival.
November 2026 holiday list: Check full list of Diwali, Bhai dooj, Govardhan, Guru Nanak Jayanti and other dates and festivals
November 2026 holiday list includes Diwali on November 8, Chhath Puja on November 15 and Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 24. The month also features Naraka Chaturdashi, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Duj and Guru Teg Bahadur's Martyrdom Day, with holidays varying across states and institutions.
School holiday tomorrow, November 2: Will schools remain closed in Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra and other states?
Parents and students are verifying whether schools will remain closed on November 2 due to upcoming festivals. Different states may begin Diwali vacations at varying times, impacting school schedules. Institutions in Delhi-NCR are likely to maintain regular classes unless stated otherwise. Schools in Maharashtra may have holidays beginning on November 2, leading to potential closures until November 14.
Diwali, Chhath Puja special trains: Railways announces 3 unreserved trains from Kolkata to Bihar and UP; check timings and dates
Eastern Railway has announced three unreserved special trains connecting Sealdah and Kolkata with Jaynagar, Ballia and Gorakhpur to manage the festive passenger rush ahead of Chhath. Each train will have 20 coaches, including 18 general second-class coaches. Here are their timings, departure dates, return schedules and important stoppages.
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on October 31, 2026?
Indian banks observe closures on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month. Despite holidays, digital banking remains available for customers. October and November bring a series of holidays that may impact banking hours in certain locations, prompting patrons to take advantage of online banking services during these breaks.
As Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana Draws Attention, Discover the Sacred Chhath Puja Connection With Lord Rama and Sita
Chhath Puja is one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to the Sun God, but its connection with the Ramayana adds another layer of religious significance. According to popular beliefs, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita observed Sun worship after returning to Ayodhya from their 14-year exile. As Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Lord Rama in the upcoming Ramayana brings renewed attention to the epic, here is the lesser-known story connecting Chhath Puja, Goddess Sita and the sacred tradition of offering Arghya to the Sun.
Bank holidays in November 2026: Check state-wise list of bank closures and festival dates
Bank holidays in November 2026 will vary across Indian states based on local festivals. Customers must check specific holiday schedules before visiting bank branches to avoid inconvenience. Some notable holidays include Diwali, Wangala festival, and Chhath Puja, affecting different states. The Reserve Bank of India has outlined specific closure dates for scheduled banks. Both scheduled and non-scheduled banks observe holidays on specific Saturdays as per the RBI calendar.
Railways to launch door-to-door parcel services
Indian Railways plans to introduce a door-to-door parcel service using the Rail Parcel App in eight cities. Customers in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and other cities can book pickups and deliveries. Logistics partners will manage first-mile and last-mile services, while the railways will transport parcels. Bookings can be made online, easing the logistics burden for customers. Refunds for cancellations will also be available under specific conditions.
6,200 special train trips for festive travel: Railways boosts services by 30% for Diwali, Chhath Puja; check Delhi-Patna, Delhi-Howrah & other routes
Northern Railway has planned over 6,200 special train trips for Diwali and Chhath Puja, a 30% increase from last year's 4,666 trips. The additional services aim to ease the festive rush on routes connecting Delhi and other northern cities with Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Extra ticket counters, staff and security arrangements have also been introduced at stations.
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