Prasar Bharati Launches OTT Channel 'Waves': Ramayan, Fauji 2 And Other Show To Stream

Spotlight on Waves also includes live events like the Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti live from Ayodhya and the monthly Mann ki Baat by Honble Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

CM flags off 25 vehicles to keep Ayodhya clean

Yogi inaugurates Rajagopuram gate in Ayodhya

UP bypolls: 49.71% voter turnout recorded, SP accuses BJP of 'manipulating' voters

LUCKNOW: The by-poll to nine assembly constituencies of Uttar Pradesh witnessed a moderate 49.71 per cent voters turn out to seal the fate of 90 candidates, including 11 women, on Wednesday. According to the information shared by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Kundarki assembly segment in Moradabad district recorded the highest voter turnout of 57.32 per cent voter turnout, while the Ghaziabad (Sadar) seat witnessed the lowest at 33.03 per cent. Till 5 pm, Meerapur seat in Muzaffarngar, where a BJP candidate was contesting on RLD symbol, registered 57.02 per cent turnout, Katehari in Ambedkar Nagar recorded 56.69 per cent, Karhal in Mainpuri registered 53.92 per cent, Majhawan in Mirzapur registered 50.41 per cent, Sisamau in Kanpur recorded 49.03 per cent and Phulpur in Prayagraj recorded 43.43 per cent turnout. The bypoll, necessitated by the election of sitting MLAs to Lok Sabha in 2024 general election, had to take place in 10 assembly constituencies but the Milkipur Assembly segment in Ayodhya district was put on hold by the Election Commission of India (ECI) as it is caught in litigation, pertaining to 2022 assembly election. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa stated that five policemen, including two each in Kanpur and Muzaffarnagar and one in Moradabad, were suspended for failing to execute their duties properly during polls. During the voting, the Samajwadi Party accused UP police of deterring voters, with visuals showing voters in Meerapur and Kundarki assembly constituencies being refused to cast their vote despite having valid ID cards and slips. Policemen were reportedly seen verifying voting slips and IDs, sparking protests against alleged voting malpractices, following which the Kanpur Police Commissionerate suspended officers who obstructed voters through unwarranted ID checks. Similarly, the SP Moradabad also informed the public through social media that action had been taken against errant officers. Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav accused the ruling BJP of misusing administrative machinery to secure a win in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly bypolls hrough manipulation and intimidating the voters. He mentioned that his party has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission (EC) regarding irregularities in several constituencies. An incident of stone-pelting occurred in Kakroli village during Meerapur assembly bypoll, following a confrontation between two groups. Senior Superintendent of Police Abhishek Singh told the media persons that the police arrived at the scene and used mild force to disperse the crowd.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath launches Dekho Apna Desh - People's Choice 2024 campaign from Ayodhya

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the Dekho Apna Desh - People's Choice 2024 campaign, aiming to identify and promote the state's top tourist destinations. The campaign encourages public participation through voting and selfie uploads, with the goal of developing world-class tourist attractions based on public feedback.

From Indiras pro-Hindu turn to Modis new phase

KOCHI: In How Prime Ministers Decide, Neerja Chowdhury digs deep into her decades-long career as a political reporter to bring you a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of Indias highest political office. The work featuring the legacies of six pivotal leaders Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, V P Singh, Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh is part biography and part political analysis, and a compelling study of leadership. It was awarded the 2024 Ramnath Goenka Sahithya Samman (Best Debut Non-fiction) by The New Indian Express Group . Neerja tells TNIE that she was inspired to write the book upon realising that the real story of how decisions were made at the top was very different from public perception. While many believe that the prime minister is the most powerful person and can do anything s/he wants, she explains that this is not entirely the case. The PM has to contend with all kinds of pressures lobbies at work, nationally and internationally, pulls of caste, community, religious pressures from within ones own party. Also, no prime minister inherits a clean slate, she says. Each must navigate the baggage of the past while steering the nation forward. Kitchen cabinets and close coteries play a key role. Sometimes, Neerja says, they include individuals from outside the official system. For instance, Kapil Mohan and Anil Bali of the Mohan Meakin family (famous for their Old Monk rum). They were close confidants of Indira Gandhi, she says. RSS support to Indira One of the books intriguing themes is how prime ministers handled crises. For instance, Indira Gandhis declaration of the Emergency in 1975 was driven by her fear of losing power, leading her to suspend democratic rights and consolidate authority. Yet, she bounced back. Indira adopted a four-pronged strategy. This included winning over former adversaries like Raj Narain, marginalising potential threats, and most interestingly, mobilising support through temple-going and her pro-Hindu turn. She told friends privately she never admitted this publicly that but for the RSSs support for her in the 1980 general elections, she might not have come back to power with such a thumping majority. That was a time when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was secularising his politics and Indira Gandhi was Hinduising her political persona, Neerja says. Raos ultimate non-decision According to the author, Rao inherited a very difficult situation when he took over as PM after Rajiv Gandhis assassination in 1991. The country was aflame with passions over Mandal and Mandir. Jammu & Kashmir was burning, and so was Punjab, she notes. Moreover, the government was on the verge of an economic collapse. Within a year, Rao stabilised the economy, and calmed the political temperatures. He also put into place new initiatives on foreign policy. However, Raos failure to handle issues of caste and religion was his undoing. A year into his term, the Sangh-BJP combine upped the ante on building a Ram temple in Ayodhya. Rao tried to buy time through various means. But he shied away from dismissing the Kalyan Singh government in Uttar Pradesh, which was openly working for a Mandir in Ayodhya, she notes. Neerja believes this was because Rao felt that imposing central rule in UP would enable the BJP to throw its net wider politically and give his opponents in the Congress the opportunity to dethrone him as prime minister. Vajpayees flip-flops and advice to Sonia Vajpayee started off as a pacifist in the 50s, having penned a poem on the devastation that had taken place when the nuclear bombs were dropped in Japan. In the 60s, in line with his partys policy, he was a nuclear hawk, after China exploded its nuclear device. In the 70s, he became a nuclear dove again as a member of the government of Morarji Desai, who was opposed to India going nuclear. In 1998, as prime minister, Vajpayee went for a nuclear test, taking India to the global high table. Neerja says Vajpayee was a master at doing flip flops, and yet managed to retain his image as a moderate. Another interesting revelation is Vajpayees unexpected advice to Sonia Gandhi not to accept prime ministership in 2004. This counsel, apparently, influenced her decision to appoint Manmohan Singh instead. Manmohans killer instinct The quiet but firm resolve of Manmohan Singh is another focal point. Manmohans push for the Indo-US nuclear deal faced significant resistance, including from the all-powerful Sonia Gandhi who was half PM and the Left. Dr Manmohan Singh did not yield ground, Neerja notes. He displayed a killer instinct which few thought he possessed. But he did not display this determination or steeliness over any other decision, says Neerja. Centralisation of power This is yet another significant theme in her book centralisation of power with the Prime Ministers Office (PMO). Indira Gandhi was the first leader to make the PMO all-powerful, Neerja notes. By the time of Narendra Modi, whose leadership is only briefly touched upon in her book, the PMO emerged as the epicentre of decision-making. Modis centralisation of power, Neerja says, marked the zenith of this trend. Add to this his emphasis on cultural nationalism, and we are looking at a distinct departure from the leadership styles of previous leaders. A new phase in Indian politics.

UP Police key moments: Night vision tool and Ayodhya verdict

Former CJI Addresses The Row Over His Remarks About Praying Ahead Of Ayodhya Verdict | N18S

Former CJI DY Chandrachud Addresses The Row Over His Remarks About Praying Ahead Of Ayodhya Verdict

BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh becomes first state to declare The Sabarmati Report movie tax-free

BHOPAL:The BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh, became on Monday afternoon, the first state in the country, to declare the recently released Hindi movie, The Sabarmati Report tax-free. The significant announcement was made by the central Indian states CM Dr Mohan Yadav in Bhopal. The events of the past have been presented factually in the film. The film is being made tax-free so that more and more people can watch it. I too will watch the movie, which will also be watched by my ministers, MLAs and MPs. I hope this movie brings out the true reality of the black chapter of the past, which has largely been distorted due to vote bank politics, Yadav added. Importantly, the MP CM made the key announcement just a few hours before he flew to Gujarat to hold talks with the states CM and ministers over a host of issues. The announcement was made just a day after PM Narendra Modi (who was the Gujarat CM during the time of the horrific incident and subsequent riots), while referring to The Sabarmati Report movie, had stated on social media, Its good that this truth is coming out. A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Adding to the PMs praise for the movie, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted on social media, No matter how hard a powerful ecosystem tries, it cannot keep the truth hidden in darkness forever. Released last week, the Vikrant Massey and Raashii Khanna-starrer movie is based on the 2002 Godhra train burning tragedy, in which 59 people, mostly Hindu pilgrims and karsevaks returning from a ceremony in Ayodhya, died in a fire. This is the second movie within eight months to have been declared tax-free by the MP CM Dr Mohan Yadav. Prior to it, in March, the CM had declared Yami Gautam-starrer Article 370 tax-free in the central Indian state. Article 370 focused on the rise of terrorism in Kashmir and the governments fight against it, including the abrogation of Article 370 by the Narendra Modi government on August 5, 2019, ending the special status given toJammu and Kashmir. The government, however, didnt give a similar tax benefit to the Pankaj Tripathi-starrer movie Mai Atal Hoon , which was a biopic on former PM and BJP patriarch Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Importantly Vajpayees Indore-based niece Mala Tiwari had written to PM Narendra Modi in January, to make themovie Mai Atal Hoon tax-freefor infusing the spirit of nationalism among youths. Before it, in May 2023, then CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan had declared the Hindi movie, The Kerala Story tax-free and also watched the movie with the films cast and crew in Bhopal. In June 2022, Chouhan had declared Akshay Kumar-starrer Samrat Prithviraj tax-free, just two months after granting similar benefits to Anupam Kher-starrer, The Kashmir Files . But its not just BJP regimes that have declared movies tax-free in MP, as even the 15-months-old Kamal Nath-led Congress regime, had declared Deepika Padukone-starrer Chhapaak (based on the real-life struggle of an acid attack survivor) and Taapsee Pannu-starrer Thappad (which dealt with issue of domestic violence) tax-free in the state.

Chandrodaya Mandir: The World's Tallest Temple Set to Dazzle Devotees in Vrindavan

A Grand New Temple in Mathura -The grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has already been completed, but the construction of majestic temples in Uttar Pradesh continues. One such temple, the Chandrodaya Mandir in Vrindavan, is rapidly rising in the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura. This temple is set to become one of the tallest in the world, attracting both devotees and tourists. With plans to rival iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, it promises to be a stunning addition to the region's spiritual and cultural heritage. A Monumental Project by ISKCON The Chandrodaya Mandir is being built by ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness). The foundation stone was laid on November 16, 2014, by former President Pranab Mukherjee. When completed, the temple will feature an astounding 166 floors, making it unique in the world of temple architecture. A Towering Height to Rival Global Landmarks Standing at an impressive 700 feet, the Chandrodaya Mandir will be three times the height of the Qutub Minar in Delhi, which stands at 72.5 meters. This remarkable height ensures that the temple will be counted among the tallest temples worldwide. The depth of its foundation will also surpass that of the Burj Khalifa, the worlds tallest building, by three times. A Pyramid-Shaped Wonder The temple will be built in a pyramid shape, with the topmost floor named Braj Mandal Darshan. Surrounding the temple will be representations of the twelve forests described in the Shrimad Bhagwat and other scriptures. The total construction cost of the temple exceeds Rs 700 crore, and it is designed to withstand an earthquake of up to 8 on the Richter scale. Built to Withstand the Harshest Conditions The temples structure is being designed with meticulous care to endure extreme conditions. Not only will it stand firm against earthquakes, but it is also engineered to withstand winds as strong as 170 km per hour. Spread across 70 acres, the temple complex will feature car parking facilities and even a helipad. Visiting the entire site could take three to four days, given its vast expanse. Impressive Features and Modern Technology The Chandrodaya Mandir will be the most modern temple to date, incorporating 4D technology for a unique spiritual experience. A library dedicated to the life of Lord Krishna will be a key feature, alongside a Krishna-themed park where visitors can enjoy a light and sound show. The temple will have the capacity to host up to 10,000 devotees at once, making it a hub for both spiritual practice and tourism. With its grand scale, modern design, and spiritual significance, the Chandrodaya Mandir is poised to become a landmark of global importance. The temples construction is not just an architectural marvel but also a beacon of devotion and cultural pride for future generations. Ayodhya: THESE Reasons Cited for the Three-Month Delay in Ram Temple Completion Yogi Govt Prioritizes Restoration of Historic Temples in Prayagraj for Mahakumbh 2025

Rams first tilakotsav after temple opening in Ayodhya held with fanfare

Bulldozer on standby in Jharkhand to realise looted funds, oust infiltrators: UP CM Adityanath

Nala (Jamtara): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday intensified his criticism of the JMM-led coalition, accusing it of indulging in dacoity by looting natural resources and central funds sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also called upon Hindus to be united to be safe and asserted that after Ram Temple in Ayodhya it was time for a Krishna temple in Mathura. Addressing a poll rally at Nala in Jamtara, Adityanath said, The JMM-led coalition has looted Jharkhand's natural resources and the central funds sent by Modi. It has also encouraged infiltration by Bangladeshi migrants and Rohingyas, posing a serious threat to 'beti, mati, roti' (daughter, land, and bread). Now, the bulldozer is on standby to reclaim the looted funds. Adityanath alleged that illegal mining, including rampant extraction of sand, coal and forest resources, was flourishing under the protection of the ruling coalition, leaving Jharkhand hollowed out by mafia activities. He accused the JMM-led government of providing support to infiltrators involved in land jihad and love jihad in Jharkhand, warning that such forces would not be spared if the NDA comes to power. The Uttar Pradesh CM also took aim at the Congress-JMM alliance, claiming they had obstructed the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Now, they are playing with the lives of people in Jharkhand through their divisive politics, he said. Adityanath said at least 10 lakh Hindus were massacred during partition in 1947 because Hindus were divided and urged them to be united to be safe. After Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, it's time for Krishna Kanhaiya Temple in Mathura, he asserted.

MLA flags off yatra to Ayodhya

Followers of Sanatan Dharma will respond to those disrespecting it: Pawan Kalyan

Chandrapur: Jana Sena Party head and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan said on Sunday that the followers of Sanatan Dharma would respond to those disrespecting it, and called Chhatrapati Shivaji and Bal Thackeray the inspiration behind his outfit. He was addressing a rally in Ballarpur to campaign for Mahayuti candidate and BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar. The people of Old City (Hyderabad) have always criticised the Indian culture and the festivals of India. However, followers of Sanatan Dharma have always respected everyone irrespective of their religion. Followers of Sanatan Dharma, however, will respond to those who disrespect it, said the actor. Hailing the legendary Maratha king Shivaji and Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, he said they united people. My party was founded with the inspiration of Shivaji Maharaj and Balasaheb Thackeray, Pawan Kalyan said. The actor-turned-politician said he was glad to be in Ballarpur which provided teakwood for the Ayodhya Ram temple. I'm here to appeal to the citizens to extend support for the development of Maharashtra and Sanatan Dharma, not for votes. The ally of the BJP said India is currently the fifth-largest economy in the world and the NDA government at the Centre is striving to take to the third position. This march of progress should not be halted and everyone should cast their vote to elect the right candidate, he said. In Ballarpur, Mungantiwar is contesting against Congress' Santoshsingh Chandansingh Rawat. Pawan Kalyan also claimed that India won't be strong without the support of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), recalling the Sangh's work during floods in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore when he was in school. There are plenty of people who want to divide the country. However, we should be united to make India strong by respecting the local people and their culture, he said. The NDA government has focused on developing India as well as Maharashtra and connected every city with development projects, he said. NDA is also committed to making Maharashtra a $1 trillion economy by 2028, he said. He also took part in a roadshow in Chandrapur in support of BJP candidate Kishore Jorgewar, who is pitted against Pravin Padwekar of Congress. Earlier, addressing a rally in Latur city on Saturday, Kalyan assured of efforts to launch air and rail services between Latur and Tirupati.

From Anantapur to global dance stage

TIRUPATI: At the age of 40, Dr Vasanth Kiran Rayasam from Anantapur district is a name celebrated in classical dance circles. A master of Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam, Dr Vasanths contributions as a performer, choreographer, and teacher have left an indelible mark, both in India and abroad. His journey is steeped in tradition, having trained under stalwarts like Dr Vempati Chinna Satyam in Kuchipudi and Mandakini Udupi in Bharatanatyam. Beyond performance, his academic pursuits are equally remarkable, holding multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in Management and gold medals in dance studies. Over the years, Vasanth has showcased Indian classical arts across 35 countries, presenting spellbinding choreographies like Ardhasaankaram and Pandurangam Bhaje at events such as the Khajuraho Dance Festival and Mysore Dasara. He has composed more than 100 dance pieces, many performed globally. His teaching has also been transformative. As the founding head of performing arts departments at Alliance University and REVA University, he combined arts and management to inspire a new generation of performers. Now, through Bharata Kala Grama, a Gurukulam in Karnataka, he offers free training to underprivileged students, keeping the arts accessible and alive. Recognised with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar in 2020, his stature continues to grow. He recently performed at the consecration of the Ayodhya Ram Temple and the opening of Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Art has the power to unify and empower, he said, reflecting his passion for nurturing young talent. For him, teaching is not just about creating dancers but thinkers who carry forward Indias cultural heritage. Starting his journey from rural Karnataka to global stages, Dr Vasanths odyssey is a testament to how tradition, innovation, and dedication can inspire and empower generations.

Hundreds of devotees march from Janakpur in Nepal to Ayodhya for 'Tilakostav'

Over 400 Hindu devotees left Nepal's Janakpurdham for Ayodhya, India, carrying symbolic gifts for the 'Tilakostav' ritual. The procession, representing an invitation for Ram and Sita's marriage, is expected to reach Ayodhya on Monday. A reciprocal procession from Ayodhya will then travel to Janakpurdham for the 'Bivaha Panchami' festival on December 6th, celebrating the divine wedding.

'Muslim League divided society now Samajwadi Party doing the same': UP CM Yogi Adityanath's big attack against Akhilesh Yadav

During a rally in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath compared the Samajwadi Party to the Muslim League, accusing both of dividing society along religious lines. He also criticized Congress, contrasting their governance with the BJP's achievements, including the Ayodhya Ram Mandir construction. Adityanath emphasized unity for security, a message echoed by BJP MP Kangana Ranaut.

It's the Season of Lamps and Lights

Its the season of lamps and lights across the world. Last month we had Deepavali, the five-day Indian festival that celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after killing the demon Ravana. Sometime later in the West carved pumpkins came out with lamps inside them to celebrate Halloween. Both these festivals come around in the same week.

PM firm on Waqf Act amendment, says Amit Shah; sets date for eliminating Naxalism in Chhattisgarh

CHANDRAPUR / YAVATMAL / HINGOLI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday asserted Prime Minister Narendra Modi was determined to amend the Waqf Act despite resistance from key opposition leaders like Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar. Addressing three election rallies in Maharashtra during the day in support of Mahayuti candidates, he declared the Modi government will eliminate Naxalism from Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026 and dared Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to publicly laud Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar and Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. The senior BJP leader emphasised that the Centre will push through amendments in the Waqf Act, 1995, despite opposition from INDIA bloc parties. Modi ji wants to change the Waqf Board law, but Uddhav ji, Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule are opposing it. Uddhav ji, listen carefully, you all can protest as much as you want, but Modi ji will amend the Waqf Act, he said, addressing a rally at Umarkhed in Yavatmal district. A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is currently scrutinising the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced in the Lok Sabha in August. The Centre introduced bill, saying the proposed law was aimed to streamline the Waqf Board's work and ensure efficient management of Waqf properties. The Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray and NCP (SP) headed by Sharad Pawar are members of the opposition INDIA bloc. Supriya Sule is the NCP (SP) Lok Sabha MP from Baramati. Speaking further at the rally, Shah drew on the Mahabharat and said there are two camps in the November 20 state assembly polls -- one of 'Pandavas' represented by the BJP-led Mahayuti and the other of 'Kauravas' represented by the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Uddhav Thackeray claims that his Shiv Sena is the real one. Can the real Shiv Sena go against renaming Aurangabad to Sambhajinagar? Can the real Shiv Sena go against renaming Ahmednagar to Ahilyanagar? The real Shiv Sena stands with the BJP, Shah insisted. The Shiv Sena headed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is aligned with the BJP. Rahul Baba used to say that his government would credit money in the accounts of people instantly, but you were unable to fulfil your (pre-poll) promises in Himachal, Karnataka, and Telangana (all ruled by Congress), he told the gathering. Shah said the Mahayuti alliance has promised that poor women will get Rs 2,100 per month under the Ladki Bahin Yojana (up from Rs 1,500 now) after coming to power in Maharashtra. Speaking at a rally in Chandrapur, the Union Home Minister declared that the Modi-led government will eliminate Naxalism from Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026. Modi ji has worked to free the country from terrorism and Naxalism. He worked to make the country prosperous and increase its stature in the world. Whatever (Naxal menace) is remaining in Chhattisgarh, we will end it by March 31, 2026, Shah said. The BJP's star campaigner opined that the Centre is committed to Maharashtra's development and a mandate in favour of the ruling Mahayuti will accelerate the pace of growth. Modi ji has sent Rs 15.10 lakh crore for the development of Maharashtra. Along with this, many projects were also started in Maharashtra. If you form a Mahayuti government, the glory of Maharashtra, which was lost during the MVA government, will be restored, he averred. At his third election meeting of the day in Hingoli, Shah dared Rahul Gandhi to speak nicely about Savarkar and Bal Thackeray. Uddhav ji, if you have the courage, get Rahul Baba to speak two good words about Veer Savarkar and Balasaheb, Shah said. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress are members of the MVA. The Union minister asserted that Article 370, scrapped by the BJP-led Centre in 2019, will not be restored in Jammu and Kashmir under any circumstances. Rahul Baba's Congress party has passed a resolution in Kashmir to bring back Article 370. Rahul Baba, listen carefully, not only you but even your fourth generation cannot bring back Article 370, Shah emphasised. The former BJP president said Congress leader Sonia Gandhi tried to launch her son (Rahul) 20 times, but failed every time and the result will not be different this time, too. Her 'Rahul plane' is going to crash for the 21st time in the Maharashtra elections, he added. The polls will decide whether the state follows the path of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and freedom fighter Savarkar or that of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, Shah said. The BJP-led Mahayuti has chosen the path of Shivaji Maharaj and Savarkar, while the MVA people are part of the Aurangzeb fan club, he averred. For 70 years, the Congress obstructed the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya, but Modi ji built it, he said. At his Hingoli rally also, Shah spoke about the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. In Karnataka, the Wakf Board has declared villages, temples, farmers' lands and people's houses as waqf properties. We have brought a bill to amend the Waqf Act, but Sharad Pawar and Company is opposing this bill. You can oppose it as much as you want, but the Modi government will change the Waqf Act with full force, Shah said. Assembly poll results will be declared on November 23.

Centre, Rajasthan to jointly develop Pushkar on lines of Kashi Vishwanath, Ayodhya: Diya Kumari

Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, announced plans to develop Pushkar, a significant pilgrimage site, similar to Kashi Vishwanath and Ayodhya. The development aims to boost religious tourism and improve local living standards. This year's Pushkar Fair saw a record number of visitors, indicating the town's growing popularity.

Centre, Rajasthan to jointly develop Pushkar on lines of Kashi Vishwanath, Ayodhya: Diya Kumari

Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, announced plans to develop Pushkar, a significant pilgrimage site, similar to Kashi Vishwanath and Ayodhya. The development aims to boost religious tourism and improve local living standards. This year's Pushkar Fair saw a record number of visitors, indicating the town's growing popularity.

3 killed as car collides witha minibus in Ayodhya

Sanjeev Ahluwalia | Trumps America poised to move much closer to India

Uplifting tailwinds, inspired by personal chemistry, had boosted the America-India friendship to unprecedented levels in the public imagination, with two never-before joint, public events, starting with Howdy Modi in Houston in 2019 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called the 2020 US election for Donald Trump. The resultant bond of friendship was sealed by Namaste Trump in Ahmedabad early in 2020. But it was not to be. Thereafter, the relationship levelled off to more normal, but warm levels, under President Joe Biden. That is history, now that President-elect Donald Trump will be back as POTUS in January next year. Four factors drive the expectation that India-US ties can only get stronger. First, Americans edged closer to India by ignoring the advice given by 27 Nobel Prize-winning American economists that Kamala Harris would be a better steward of the economy than Mr Trump. Indians have a similar disregard for economic advice, which while being well-meaning remains too theoretical and deeply hedged with on the one hand and on the other hand escape clauses, to be of any practical use. Leaders reflect their voter biases. No wonder then, that both Prime Minister Modi and President-elect Trump share a business-like world view, impatient with the constraints of history, political philosophy, economics, or ideology -- through neither is averse to getting their contextually derived action plans endorsed by ideologues -- if the two converge. Getting something done in the near term is the core motivation for both leaders. Neither leader was a foot soldier of the party they now lead. Mr Trump burst on the political scene as a leader with no prior political experience in 2016. Prime Minister Modi, though a child of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, is the perpetual insider-outsider who marches to his own tune. He became chief minister of Gujarat in 2001, without ever being a member of the Legislative Assembly earlier. He shone by orchestrating Lal Krishna Advanis 1990 Rath Yatra mobilising Hindu support for a Ram Mandir at Ayodhya -- an aspiration, now fulfilled, earlier this year. Both Mr Trumps America and Mr Modis India are unmindful of treading on established conventions to suit short-term national interests. In this they differ from Chinas Deng Xiaoping only in playing to a shorter planning horizon. Then, managing the growing Chinese threat to the established global order is a common goal, albeit with differing intent. Maintaining global dominance is to the benefit of America. India is a new aspirant to global power, aiming to bend global rules to its own benefit in the medium term. In the short term, its objectives are complex, mirroring Americas, in seeking to moderate Chinas bellicosity, whilst continuing to profit from Chinas highly skilled workforce, malleable domestic regulations for foreign investment and competitive exports selectively. The US is Indias biggest export market, but China is the biggest import partner. If India succeeds in becoming a global hub for technology design and services, it can meet the demand of American and European consumers by using the manufacturing smarts of China in India. China is ageing and in a weak fiscal spot now, which could defer its dream of global hegemony to beyond 2045. Mr Trump and Mr Modi could work this to their mutual benefit by engaging with China to refocus its energies on development rather than strategic autonomy. China is, however, yet to become a high-income economy going by the World Bank Atlas method for computing average per capita income in $PPP. Neither Mr Trump nor Mr Modi worry overly about the ideological virtues of democracy, a system which, ironically, elevated them to the leadership. For both, as it was for Deng Xiaoping, all cats are good if they can catch mice. Functionality is the key. China has never had any experience of democracy based on multiple parties, universal suffrage and civil rights. But a significant majority of citizens across these three nations remain deeply attracted to the democratic principles of equity. Neo-capitalism (regulated markets with property rights or party-guided capitalism, Chinese style) is the global growth meme. The inevitable downside is inequity in the distribution of wealth and income. This requires global solutions for safeguarding individual rights against corporate bodies and the State. At first sight, there is nothing common between the US and India or China. But there is a reason why both Indian and Chinese immigrants to the United States do so well. On reaching that shining place on a hill, they fit right in, because the US is a melting pot, like India, except that it is on efficiency steroids and minus the hassles of a growth- suffocating bureaucracy. The extensive welfare programmes funded by the Modi government (and imitated by competing parties in state governments, sometimes called freebies), are mood elevators to dull some of the pain of transition from a low efficiency economy to a high value-addition economy where social customs, norms, ritual status and individual needs are all subject to the imperative of putting commitment to work above all else. Like the US, China privileges corporate interest above worker interest. India is yet to get there. Finally, the intervening three decades from 1970 to 1990s were an aberration, book ended by collaboration with the US. The Kolkata-based Damodar Valley Corporation was established in 1948 as the first multi-purpose river development project, modelled on the Tennessee Valley Authority in collaboration with American engineers. In the 1960s America responded with food support to tide over two successive droughts in India. Actions speak louder than words, even if the relationship cooled over the subsequent three decades till 2008, when Indias access to the civil nuclear power suppliers club was facilitated by the United States. Future complementarities exist despite the divergent resource base of the two economies. The United States is 20 per cent of the global economy at present, but just four per cent of the global population. India is three per cent of the global economy but 18 per cent of the global population. The complementarity is that future growth trends in the Indian economy are more than double the rate in the US, particularly if Americas borders are sealed to immigrants. India is expected to contribute 14 per cent to global growth over the next two decades, assuming an annual growth differential of four percentage points between global and domestic growth. India is changing and responding to the demands of global competition. The US, India and China together comprising about one half of global GDP -- could be the regulatory sandbox to chart the way ahead.

PM Modi put last nail in coffin of terrorism, govt set to eliminate Maoists: Yogi Adityanath

Bokaro: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday accused the JMM-led coalition government in Jharkhand of aiding Bangladeshi infiltrators and Rohingyas in the state and asserted that the BJP, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was the only solution to stop this. Addressing a rally in Bermo, Bokaro, Adityanath said, The JMM, Congress, and RJD are helping Rohingyas and Bangladeshi infiltrators enter Jharkhand. They are grabbing land here by marrying tribal girls. The BJP under PM Modi is the only solution to this problem. He also credited the BJP government for providing security to the nation's 140 crore citizens and emphasised the government's strong stance on terrorism. Under Modi, the Ayodhya issue was resolved in two years. The country has become so powerful under his leadership that neighbouring countries like Pakistan have stopped provoking us, Adityanath said. The world's most powerful leadership is with you, no one who provokes India will be spared. PM Modi put the last nail in the coffin of terrorism and the government is set to eliminate the Maoists, he said, appealing people to vote for the BJP. He also alleged that INDI alliance has designs to divide communities by pitting them against each other. Batenge to katenge; Ek rahenge to safe rahenge (If divided we will be wiped out, if together, we will be safe), he added.

Amit Shah calls MVA Aurangzeb fan club

Mumbai :Union home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday described the opposition's Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance as Aurangzeb fan club. Addressing a rally in Maharashtra's Dhule, the BJP stalwart claimed Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has forgotten the principles of his father, Bal Thackeray. Mr. Shah and BJP national president J.P. Nadda are holding multiple rallies across the state. While Mr. Shah is also set to address rallies in Chalisgaon and Jintur, Mr. Nadda is campaigning in Mumbai South, Shirdi and Ahmednagar. Addressing a public rally in support of Jaykumar Rawal in Sindkheda constituency of Dhule district, Mr Shah said that Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray was in an alliance with parties which had opposed the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya Uddhavji has forgotten all the principles of Balasaheb Thackeray for getting power. Uddhav Babu, you are sitting with those who objected to the renaming of Auranagabad as Sambhaji Nagar. You are sitting with those who had opposed the construction of the Ram Temple, triple talaq and abrogation of the Article 370. The MVA alliance is the Aurangzeb fan club, while the Mahayuti alliance is following the path of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Veer Savarkar, the senior BJP leader said. The BJP led Mahayuti the alliance which also includes Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP will take on the Maha Vikas Aghadi an alliance of Congress, Sharad Pawar-led NCP(SP) and Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) in the Maharashtra assembly election, which will take place on November 20. The Senior BJP leader said that the credibility of the MVAs promises has fallen below the abyss, whereas the people of Maharashtra have faith in the promises of Mahayuti. The Union home minister also held a public rally for the party candidate Meghna Sakore Bordikar in Parbhani's Jintur, where he accused the MVA leaders of obstructing development. While the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra respected heritage along with the welfare of women, farmers and youth, the MVA, which was mired in corruption, created obstacles in development work, he said. Taking a dig at senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, Mr. Shah said that Congress would fail to make a mark in the upcoming assembly elections in Maharashtra. Soniaji tried to land the plane named Rahul Baba 20 times, and 20 times the plane crashed. Now again, an attempt is being made to land it for the 21st time in Maharashtra. Sonia ji, this plane is sure to crash for the 21st time, he said. BJP National President and Union minister Nadda addressed a professional meet of lawyers, doctors, engineers, and CAs in south Mumbai. Accusing the Congress leaders of not knowing the realities of rural India, Mr Nadda said that the Congress leaders did not understand the importance of Ujjwala Yojana as they are born with golden spoons. 11 crore people in the country have been provided gas connections and gas stoves, he said. Taking a swipe at Uddhav Thackeray, the BJP national president also said that earlier people used to leave Mumbai due fear of Shiv Sena founder late Balasaheb Thackeray, now his son and former Chief Minister Uddhav has gone and sat in the lap of Congress. He also accused the MVA for stalling the development projects in Maharashtra. The previous MVA government not only applied brakes but also took the state in reverse gear, Mr. Nadda said. He also campaigned in Shirdi Assembly constituency, which falls in drought-hit Ahmednagar district, for Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil.

Five in a fortnight, Ayodhya on course for new milestones

Security Beefed Up Around Ayodhya Ram Temple After Pannun 'Threat'

In the purported video, the founder of the banned outfit 'Sikhs for Justice' warned of potential bloodshed at the Ram Temple on November 16-17, coinciding with the 'Ram Vivah' festival scheduled for November 18, which Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is expected to attend

Even if Indira Gandhi returns from heaven, Article 370 will not be restored: Amit Shah

PARBHANI/JALGAON/DHULE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday asserted that Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, will not be restored even if Congress stalwart and late PM Indira Gandhi comes down from heaven. The BJP's star campaigner sought to corner the Congress over Muslim reservation and accused the main opposition party of deliberately stalling construction of a Ram temple at Ayodhya for years. With just a week left for the high-stakes assembly polls in Maharashtra, Shah stepped up his campaigning for the ruling Mahayuti front, of which the BJP is a member, and addressed three rallies in a day where he attacked the Congress and its Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ally Shiv Sena (UBT). Addressing a rally at Dhule in North Maharashtra, Shah said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi should remember that even if his fourth generation were to come, Muslims won't get reservations meant for Dalits, tribals and other backward castes. A few days ago, Ulemas (Muslim scholars) met the president of Congress party and said Muslims should be given reservation (in jobs and education). If reservation has to be given to Muslims, then reservation for SCs/STs/OBCs will have to be cut. Rahul Baba, not only you but even if your four generations were to come, they cannot cut the quota meant for SCs/STs/OBCs and give it to Muslims, Shah insisted. The Union minister made it clear that Article 370, scrapped in 2019 by the BJP-led central government, won't be restored under any circumstances. PM Modi accuses Congress of 'dangerous intentions' on reservations, vows to protect 'roti, beti, maati' in Jharkhand Even if Indira Gandhi were to return from heaven, Article 370 won't be restored, the BJP stalwart told the gathering. Describing the opposition MVA grouping as an Aurangzeb Fan Club, Shah noted the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance abides by the ideals of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. At another election meeting in Jalgaon, also in North Maharashtra, the former BJP president averred that if the MVA wins the November 20 assembly polls, the state will turn into an ATM (automated teller machine) for the Congress. They (MVA) will withdraw funds from Maharashtra by using the state's resources and send the money to Delhi. In contrast, if the BJP-led Mahayuti forms a government, the Modi administration will ensure greater development for Maharashtra, Shah said at the meeting in Chalisgaon town. Targeting Gandhi, the Lok Sabha MP from Raebareli, he accused his party of making false promises and misleading people. Recently, Rahul Gandhi was seen waving a copy of Babasaheb Ambedkar's Constitution. He used the same copy while taking the oath in Parliament. When some journalists got their hands on the very copy, it had blank pages. By showing a fake Constitution, Rahul broke the trust of people and insulted Babasaheb. Apparently, you have never read the Constitution, Rahul baba, Shah said. The Sonia-Manmohan regime didn't act against Naxalism and terrorism for 10 years (2004-14) due to vote bank politics, the home minister opined. Supreme Court to Ajit Pawar's NCP: Stop using Sharad Pawar's photos, videos; Stand on your own legs The entire Congress politics runs on deception. They are saying that after the formation of the Mahayuti government (in June 2022), investment in Maharashtra has reduced. The truth is after the formation of the government of (CM) Eknath Shinde and (deputy CM) Devendra Fadnavis, our Maharashtra is No.1 state in FDI inflows in India, he said. A Mahayuti government post-polls will work more for the welfare of women, farmers and other sections of society, Shah maintained. Your one vote will not only form a Mahayuti government but your one vote will also deposit Rs 2,100 in the account of Maharashtra's beloved sisters. Your one vote will result in depositing Rs 15,000 instead of Rs 12,000 annually in farmers' account, he said. The BJP leader said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guarantee is like 'patthar ki lakeer' (carved in stone), whereas the Congress reneged on pre-poll promises in Telangana, Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh after coming to power in these states. Targeting NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar, Shah said the senior politician served as Maharashtra CM and also as a Union minister for many years, but did not do anything to give classical language status to Marathi. At his third rally at Jintur in Parbhani district in the Marathwada region, Shah averred that Congress MP Gandhi, who has been campaigning for the MVA in Maharashtra, will fail once again. Sonia ji tried to land the plane named Rahul Baba 20 times and 20 times the plane crashed. Now again, an attempt is being made to land the plane for the 21st time in Maharashtra. Sonia ji, your Rahul plane is going to crash for the 21st time, the BJP leader opined. Shah accused the Congress of deliberately stalling construction of a Ram temple at Ayodhya for years. PM Modi built the Ram temple and also constructed the Kashi Vishwanath corridor (in Varanasi) which was demolished by (Mughal emperor) Aurangzeb. Now, you should be ready to visit Gujarat as the Somnath temple is also being made of gold, he told the gathering. Modi has made the country safe and prosperous, Shah said. I have visited all the places like Vidarbha, North Maharashtra, West Maharashtra, Konkan, Mumbai, Marathwada. Do you want to know the result of assembly polls? Listen to me, on November 23 (result day), the Maha Vikas Aghadi is going to be wiped out from Maharashtra, he declared. Shah said Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, a former BJP ally, is now in alliance with those who opposed renaming Aurangabad as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Vote for double engine government to ensure speedy development of Maharashtra: PM Modi

Maharashtra Assembly polls: Rahul aircraft will crash once again, says Amit Shah

The Union Home Minister accuses the Congress of deliberately stalling construction of the Ram temple at Ayodhya for years

Maha Kumbh 2025: Global dignitaries and saints to attend Ganga Aarti in Prayagraj

International dignitaries and military personnel will attend the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. They will participate in the Ganga Aarti, a ritual highlighting the event's spiritual essence. The Mahakumbh administration aims to provide a unique experience for devotees. Renowned saints from Ayodhya will plant trees, promoting environmental awareness during the event.

'Wedding Of The Season', And For All To Come: How Ayodhya Is Planning To Celebrate First Vivah Panchami After Ram Mandir's Return

Security beefed up around Ayodhyas Ram temple after threat by pro-Khalistan leader Pannun

Following the alleged threat, Ayodhya effectively turned into a fortress with the already tight security around the Ram Janmabhoomi complex intensified further

Forced to attend religious event, allege students of aided college

CHENNAI: Meenakshi College for Women landed in a controversy on Tuesday after an audio clip allegedly involving one of its faculty members went viral on social media. In the clip, a woman can be heard telling students that their results would be withheld if they fail to attend a religious event on the campus, scheduled on Wednesday. The college allegedly forced the students to stay back after college hours to participate in the yagna which was scheduled to be conducted from 3 pm on Tuesday followed by a kumbabishekam of the Sharadambal temple adjoining the campus on Wednesday. In the clip, the faculty member, who is said to be the head of a department, is heard saying that attendance would be taken for the events and results of the students who didnt attend would be withheld. The college has asked students to come early to the college on Wednesday to attend the kumbabhishekam of the temple. They also asked us to be prepared to return home late on Tuesday as the yagna might take time and get over by 8pm, said the father of a student. When the Rama Temple in Ayodhya was inaugurated, we were asked to come to college wearing sarees to celebrate the event. But if Muslim students ask for breaks to pray, faculty members tell them that religious activities are not allowed in the college, said a student. She further said that in the middle of the examination, students are given papers to write the names of lord Rama and Shiva 108 times. The teachers said that the administration is planning to build a temple and want to bury one crore sheets having names of the lords below the foundation of the temple. They also gave me sheets for my family members to fill up. I dont understand how a government aided college can force students to engage in such activities, said a second-year student. Despite repeated attempts by TNIE, the faculty member, who allegedly threatened the students, and the college management could not be contacted for their version on the issue. Not reachable Despite repeated attempts by TNIE, the faculty member, who allegedly threatened the students, and the college management could not be contacted for their version on the issue.

Security upped in Ayodhya after Pannun threat

Ayodhya is under tight security following a threat from SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who vowed to shake the foundations of Ayodhya. The city has been fortified with increased surveillance, including CCTV and drone cameras, particularly around the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. Security forces like PAC, CRPF, and UP Special Security Force have been heavily deployed to counter the threat.

Ram temple security tightened after Pannun's threat

Security has been heightened around the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya following an alleged threat from pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The founder of the banned outfit 'Sikhs for Justice' reportedly threatened to attack the temple on November 16-17, coinciding with the 'Ram Vivah' festival. Ayodhya has been fortified with increased police presence, surveillance, and anti-terror measures.

Security beefed up at Ram temple in Ayodhya after Pannun's threat message

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), issued a threat against the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, prompting increased security measures around the temple. Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar confirmed the heightened security in response to the threat.

Faced humiliation in Ayodhya because we were divided: Yogi Adityanath

Take the message of Batenge toh katenge ek rahenge toh safe rahenge, door to door in Maharashtra, said Yogi Adityanath

Khalistani terrorist Pannun warns of shaking Ayodhya's foundations

Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has threatened attacks on the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and other Hindu temples on November 16 and 17. Pannun also vowed to target Indian diplomats and their events in Canada, following the arrest of SFJ member Inderjeet Gosal for his alleged involvement in a recent attack on a Brampton temple.

Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatents attack on Ayodhya Ram Mandir

Khalistani separatist leader Gurpanwant Singh Pannu has issued a direct threat in a new video warning of potential attacks on Hindu temples including the newly constructed Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, on November 16 and 17. In a video statement, Pannun said, We will shake the foundations of Ayodhya, birthplace of the violent Hindutva ideology. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack Ram Mandir, other temples

Brampton: Gurpatwant Singh Pannun a Khalistani terrorist has issued fresh threats against Hindu temples, including the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, in a video released by the banned group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) that was reportedly shot in Brampton, Canada, warns of potential attacks on November 16 and 17, with Pannun vowing to shake the foundations [] The post Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack Ram Mandir, other temples appeared first on Northlines .

Our ancestors did jihad against British, yours wrote love letters: Owaisi to Fadnavis

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has targeted Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis over his vote jihad remarks, claiming the BJP leader's (ideological) ancestors wrote love letters to Britishers instead of fighting against them. During a public meeting here on Sunday, Owaisi also alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ek Hai to Safe Hai slogan goes against the diversity ethos. Fadnavis on Saturday claimed vote jihad had begun in poll-bound Maharashtra, which should be countered by Dharma yuddha of vote. He had mentioned the BJP's narrow loss in Dhule Lok Sabha constituency. Countering him, Owaisi said, Our ancestors did jihad against Britishers and Fadnavis is now teaching us about jihad. (PM) Narendra Modi, (Union minister) Amit Shah, and Devendra Fadnavis together cannot defeat me in a debate. Owaisi claimed the dharmayuddha-jihad remarks amounted to poll code violation. From where did 'vote jihad and dharmayuddha' come in democracy? You purchased MLAs; should we call you a thief? the Hyderabad MP questioned. While Fadnavis talks about (vote) jihad, his hero was writing love letters to Britishers, whereas our freedom fighters did not negotiate with the foreign rulers, he said. We gave the method of fighting against the British. He (Fadnavis) said 'vote jihad' after they (BJP) didn't get votes in Malegaon (during Lok Sabha election). When they fail to get votes, they call it jihad. They lost in Ayodhya. How did that happen? Owaisi questioned. Our ancestors did jihad against Britishers, not yours. Fadnavis, whose ancestors were writing love letters to the British, will teach us jihad? he added in a veiled attack on Hindutva ideologues revered by the BJP. Modi says 'Ek Hai to Safe Hai' because they (BJP) want to end the diversity of this country, the AIMIM leader said, adding the Maratha community was betrayed by rulers who failed to give them reservation. Owaisi claimed many industrial projects went to Gujarat but Fadnavis showed no courage to stop them. Was he afraid of Narendra Modi? he asked. Referring to a controversy over Hindutva seer Ramgiri Maharaj's statements, Owaisi said remarks against the Prophet won't be tolerated. He appealed to people to come out to vote on November 20. Our victory in Aurangabad will be saluted by the people of India, he added. Owaisi addressed a public meeting in Jinsi area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in support of AIMIM candidates Imtiaz Jaleel (Aurangabad East) and Naser Siddiqui (Aurangabad Central) for the November 20 assembly elections.

Ram Temple completion delayed to Sept 2025 over stone carver shortage

Workers at the construction site of Ram temple in Ayodhya (Photo by Arun SANKAR / AFP) Workers at the construction site of Ram temple in Ayodhya (Photo by Arun SANKAR / AFP) Ayodhya: The completion of the Ram temple, initially slated for June 2025, will now be delayed by three months and is expected to be finished by September 2025, according to Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the construction committee. Mishra attributed the delay to a shortage of 200 stone carvers, which has affected the construction process. Key structures such as the auditorium, boundary, and circumambulation path are still pending. Additionally, 8.5 lakh cubic feet of red Bansi Paharpur stones, needed for the temple's boundary, have arrived in Ayodhya but the lack of skilled carvers has hindered progress. Some stones used for the first floor of the temple were found to be weak and thin. These will be replaced with stronger Makrana stones. Despite these challenges, work is progressing across various parts of the project. The statues for the temple, being crafted in Jaipur, are expected to be completed by December. These include a statue of Ramas court, sculptures for seven temples within the campus, and six statues for the boundary temples. The statues will be transported to Ayodhya by the end of December, and a decision will be made on their placement. Two Ram Lalla statues, already approved by the trust, will also be assigned proper locations. In addition, discussions have resumed about improving the accessibility of the exit route for devotees, as heavy crowds near the Janmabhoomi Path are currently obstructing the flow of visitors leaving the temple.

How about Ayodhya?: Owaisi to Fadnavis on 'vote jihad'

Our ancestors did jihad against Britishers, but yours penned 'love letters', Owaisi said in a jibe to Fadnavis.

CJI Chandrachud Retires: From Poll Bonds To Ayodhya, A Look At Some Key Rulings In His Career

From being part of the bench that decriminalised Section 377 to one that paved way for the Ram mandir in Ayodhya, Justice Chandrachud's career is highlighted by verdicts that marked a new dawn for India.

Justice DY Chandrachud retires as CJI, leaves transformative legacy in judiciary

Justice D.Y. Chandrachud concluded his tenure as the 50th Chief Justice of India, leaving behind a legacy of transformative rulings and reforms. During his time on the Supreme Court, he oversaw landmark judgments on issues like the Ayodhya dispute, Article 370, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Designer Woollen Wear To Keep Ram Lalla In Ayodhya Warm This Winter

Starting November 20, on the occasion of Aghan Panchami, the revered deity would don quilts, pashmina shawls and custom-designed winter attire created by Delhi-based designers.

Ram temple in Ayodhya likely to miss June deadline, to be ready by September 2025

LUCKNOW: The upcoming Ram temple in Ayodhya, scheduled to be completed in June 2025, will take an additional three months time to be fully ready. As a result, the temple is now expected to be fully functional by September 2025, according to Nripendra Mishra, the chairman of the construction committee. After chairing the two-day meeting of the construction committee in temple town on Thursday and Friday, Mishra said there was shortage of 200 stone carvers, causing delay in the construction work, while structures like the auditorium, boundary, and circumambulation path are yet to be completed. Mishra said that 8.5 lakh cubic feet of red Bansi Paharpur stones would have to be used in the temples outer wall. The stones have arrived in Ayodhya but there is a shortage of carvers, he added. He also noted that some stones on the first floor appeared weak in density. Those will be replaced with makrana marble and the work on first floor along with other portions is on. The Temple Construction Committee chairman also shared with media persons that all the statues to be installed in different parts of the temple premises were under process in Jaipur and would be completed by December. These include the statue of Ram Darbar, statues for seven temples on the premises, and statues for six temples on the outer wall. The statues will arrive in Ayodhya by December end. A decision will then be made on their placement. Two statues of Ram Lalla, already accepted by the Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Sthal Trust, will also be installed at pre-decided locations. There was a renewed discussion about making the Ram temple exit route more accessible.

Sitapur NH to Ayodhya road in 20 mins soon

Ayodhya Ram Temple Completion Delayed by 3 Months Due to Worker Shortage, Stone Replacement

Mishra cited a shortage of around 200 workers and the need to replace certain stones on the temple's first floor as primary reasons for the delay

Ayodhya: THESE Reasons Cited for the Three-Month Delay in Ram Temple Completion

Ayodhya: The construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya has been delayed by three months due to a shortage of workers and the need to replace some stones. The update was shared by Nripendra Mishra, the chairman of the Ram Mandir Construction Committee, after a three-day review session on the progress of the project. Mishra explained that 8.5 lakh cubic feet of red stone from Vanshipaharpur is required for the temple's park area. However, the work has been impacted by a reduction of at least 200 workers. As a result, the original target to complete the temple by June 2025 is no longer feasible. It will take three more months to complete the work, Mishra said. Despite the delay, Mishra assured that work is ongoing across various parts of the project. Plans are underway to build a space for the shoes and slippers of thousands of devotees, with construction expected to begin this week. Regarding the temple's structure, Mishra revealed that some of the stones used on the first floor were found to be of lower quality and thinner than required. These stones will be replaced with high-quality Makrana stones, a decision made at the beginning of the committee's meeting. The project also includes the creation of 80 murals depicting Ramkatha, which will be placed along the 800-meter-long parkota. The murals, made of bronze, are already being installed, with 10 murals completed so far. Ayodhya's Deepotsav: A Dazzling Display of 28 Lakh Diyas and 18 Colorful Tableaux To Show

Ayodhya Ram temple: Completion delayed by three months owing to worker shortage, stone replacement

The complete construction is now expected by September 2025 instead of June 2025, said Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the construction committee.

Ram temple completion delayed by 3 months due to worker shortage, stone replacement

AYODHYA, Nov 9: The Ram temple in Ayodhya, initially scheduled for completion by June 2025, will now likely be finished by September 2025, said Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the construction committee. Mishra cited a shortage of around 200 workers and the need to replace certain stones on the temples first floor as primary reasons for the delay. Currently, we are facing a labour shortage, causing delays in construction, he said on Friday. The complete construction is now expected by [] The post Ram temple completion delayed by 3 months due to worker shortage, stone replacement appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

CM Yogi Adityanath Inaugurates Anushthan Gomti Book Festival 2024 in Lucknow

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the third edition of the Anushthan Gomti Book Festival 2024, organized by the National Book Trust (NBT) India, in Lucknow on Saturday. The festival, being held at the River Front Park, will run from November 9 to 17. Speaking at the event, CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted the importance of reading, quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's words, When citizens read, the country leads. He expressed pride in Uttar Pradesh's rich literary heritage, noting that the state is the birthplace of Maharishi Valmiki, who authored the worlds first epic, the Ramayana. He also referred to Tulsidas Jis transformation of the Ramayana into the local Awadhi language, with Ramcharitmanas now sung in homes across the region. In his address, CM Yogi acknowledged the challenges posed by the digital age, where technology often controls rather than serves us. He pointed out that youth today spend an average of six hours on their smartphones, urging them to use this time constructively for the benefit of society. He emphasized the need to promote the works of good writers and encourage young readers to engage with creative writing to boost their creativity. Technology should be used wisely, but we must not become overly dependent on it, CM Yogi added, stressing the importance of maintaining traditional values of listening, analyzing, and learning from good literature. Yogi Govt Prioritizes Restoration of Historic Temples in Prayagraj for Mahakumbh 2025 Rozgar Mela: PM Modi Distributes 51,000+ Appointment Letters Deepotsav 2024: A Grand Celebration with Over 1,200 Artists in Ayodhya on October 28-30

Uttar Pradesh assembly special secretary dies in car crash in Ayodhya

Brij Bhushan Dubey, a 52-year-old special secretary in the UP Legislative Assembly, tragically lost his life in a car accident in Ayodhya. Dubey was traveling to Lucknow with his son, Krishna, who was behind the wheel, when their car collided with a truck after an attempted overtake.

India not 'dharmshala,' Ranchi 'converted to Karachi': BJP wants action against alleged infiltration in Jharkhand

In the lead-up to the Jharkhand assembly elections, BJP leaders have sharpened their focus on the issue of infiltrators, which they claim is a growing and unchecked threat to the state. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav have all raised concerns about what they describe as unchecked infiltration allegedly encouraged by the ruling JMM-led coalition for political gain. Chouhan warned that Jharkhand is being overrun by infiltrators, eroding the state's cultural and demographic identity. He accused the JMM-led government of treating India like a dharmshala for outsiders, prioritising vote-bank politics over the protection of Jharkhands indigenous communities. According to Chouhan, these infiltrators are allegedly marrying tribal women to gain a foothold, which he sees as a serious threat to Jharkhands population balance. He cited statistics claiming that the tribal population in Santhal Parganas has dropped from 44% to 28% due to these incursions. The JMM alliance considers these intruders as its vote bank, Chouhan said, alleging that the ruling coalition has provided illegal immigrants with voter IDs, Aadhaar cards, and ration cards. He argued that this influx compromises the state's resources and identity, benefiting only the ruling parties and their interests. Chouhan promised that, if voted to power, the BJP would implement a citizenship register to identify and expel these infiltrators, which he claimed is essential to preserve Jharkhands cultural fabric. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma echoed Chouhans sentiments, stressing the need for communal unity to counter the alleged infiltration. Using the slogan, Ek rahoge to safe rahoge (You will be safe if you remain united), Sarma emphasised that only a united electorate can prevent infiltrators from destabilising Jharkhand. He linked the issue of infiltration to broader concerns over women's safety, warning that unchecked Bangladeshi infiltration would pose a serious threat to the state's families and communities. He warned that if the BJP were not voted into power, infiltrators would invade homes, putting wives, daughters-in-law, and daughters at serious risk. Sarma further promised, We will remove ministers like Alamgir Alam and Irfan Ansari, who have plundered Jharkhand, just as we drove Babar out of Ayodhya. Recently Union Home Minister Amit Shah also had accused the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha for allegedly being lenient on the issue of infiltration and claimed that the tribal population in Jharkhand was declining due to the government's treatment of Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also had voiced these concerns, stating that the JMM-led government had been settling Bangladeshi infiltrators across Jharkhand for electoral gain. Modi pointed to actions such as disallowing Saraswati Vandana in schools and incidents of stone-pelting during festivals, claiming they highlighted the gravity of the issue. He warned that if the governments policies persisted, the indigenous Adivasi community in Jharkhand would face further marginalisation, losing their livelihood, daughters, and land. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav added his voice to the criticism, accusing the JMM-led coalition of converting Ranchi into Karachi. He claimed that Hindus are facing increasing atrocities in Jharkhand, and blamed both the JMM and Congress for the decline of the Hindu population due to infiltration from Bangladesh. Yadav further alleged that the JMM-led coalition was deliberately fostering these infiltrations for vote-bank politics, putting the states resources and culture at risk. Alleged illegal immigration from Bangladesh has long been a sensitive issue in Assam, Tripura, and West Bengal. Now, it has become a prominent topic in Jharkhand, with the BJP highlighting it as a key issue in the upcoming elections. As the BJP intensifies its campaign in Jharkhand, the party is raising the issue not just a local governance concern but as a matter of national security and cultural preservation. (With inputs from PTI)

Justice DY Chandrachud's legacy: Key verdicts, reforms, and controversies mark end of term as Indias 50th CJI

NEW DELHI: He has judgments such as the Ayodhya land dispute, the abrogation of Article 370 and the decriminalisation of consensual gay sex that shaped society and politics to his name. India's 50th chief justice D Y Chandrachud, known also for his many pithy statements, leaves an imprint all his own on the annals of legal history. Friday was the last day in court for Chandrachud, or DYC as he is often referred to, capping a long career as lawyer, Supreme Court judge and head of the country's judiciary. The ever articulate Chandrachud, who actually demits office on Sunday, penned more than 500 judgments, some panned and many praised. The Chandrachud legacy has a physical manifestation too - a reimagined 'Lady Justice'. The earlier 'Goddess of Justice' in Grecian robes with blindfold and sword has been replaced by a six-ft tall sculpture with scales in one hand and the Constitution in another. She is in a sari, with a crown and sans blindfold. While that created a stir so did the decision on his penultimate day at work with the Supreme Court rechristening its summer vacation partial court working days, an issue that has led to criticism that the apex court judges enjoyed long breaks. DYC followed in the footsteps of his father Y V Chandrachud, who served as the CJI with the longest tenure between 1978 and 1985, the only instance of a father and son occupying the highest seat in the highest court of India. The son, who studied in Delhi's St Stephen's College and Campus Law Centre and then went on get an LLM degree and a doctorate from the Harvard Law School, became chief justice on November 9, 2022. The list of judgments penned by him is long and covers almost all aspects of law. They blend scholarship and jurisprudence and are likely to inform both future decisions and how the law is studied. The verdicts have included establishing the judiciary's commitment to protecting individual rights and advancing justice, expanding the scope of fundamental rights to include privacy and invalidating the electoral bond scheme. He was part of a landmark judgment by a five-judge constitution bench that recognised the 'living will' made by terminally-ill patients for passive euthanasia. The formidable Chandrachud was also part of several Constitution benches and wrote landmark verdicts, including the contentious Ayodhya land title dispute. He was author of the unanimous 2019 verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute which settled the fractious issue going back more than a century and paved the way for construction of the temple. Ranjan Gogoi was chief justice at the time and heading the five-judge bench. In his last days in office, the CJI stirred another controversy when he said in a public function that he prayed to the deity for a solution to the polarising dispute. The comment was reproduced widely and elicited sharp reactions from various quarters, including politicians and activists, Chandrachud, who also attracted attention when Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a widely publicised Ganesh puja at his home, was the author of the lead judgment that unanimously upheld the 2019 revocation of Article 370 that gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Besides, he was on the bench that delivered path-breaking judgments on decriminalising same-sex relations and partially struck down Section 377 of the IPC on so-called unnatural sex (of carnal intercourse against the order of the nature). However, the long-pending issue of granting legal sanction to same sex marriage went against the LGBTQIA++ community and a five-judge bench headed by Chandrachud refused to accord legal recognition to it. He was also part of a nine-judge bench and key author of the unanimous verdict that declared the right to privacy a fundamental right under Article 21 (life and personal liberty). The CJI, one of the most prolific judges in independent India, led the charge for significant administrative reforms, including the continued digitisation of court records and processes as a part of the ongoing e-Courts project. The list is long. He expanded the scope of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act and the corresponding rules to include unmarried women, even transgender, for abortion between 20-24 weeks of pregnancy. Chandrachud also ruled on ticklish issues, declaring that criminalising adultery was arbitrary and archaic, and recognising the living will made by terminally ill patients He wrote judgments on power tussles between Delhi government and the lieutenant governor. In May 2023, the bench led by him held that the Delhi government would have control over all services in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The case that arose from the change in law which gave back the powers to Delhi lieutenant governor is still pending adjudication and remains one of Chandrachud's unfinished works. Consequential matters relating to the Maharashtra political crisis and the fight over rival factions for control of parties like Shiv Sena and the NCP are also still pending. Chandrachud will be remembered for his sharp comments made in his judgments and public speeches. Sunlight is the best disinfectant, he said memorably in 2018 while batting for web-casting of court proceedings and ordering the live-streaming of important matters. Post COVID-19, he made pioneering efforts in ensuring live-streaming of proceedings in all courts and tribunals across the country. And so it is today that laypersons and legal experts can access court proceedings anywhere and everywhere. He was the first person to term the brutal second wave of the Covid pandemic in 2021 a ational crisis. And just last week, he once again articulated his oft-repeated policy of ail is the rule and jail the exception. At the Express Adda, he said he has granted bail from A to Z (Arnab Goswami to Mohd Zubair) as part of his philosophy. He has also been criticised for some of his interventions. Chandrachud was the author of the judgment that rejected PILs seeking a probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya and ruled that he had died of atural causes. Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter. Chandrachud, who was elevated to the top court on May 13, 2016, was born on November 11, 1959. He was a judge of the Bombay High Court from March 29, 2000 until his appointment as the chief justice of the Allahabad High Court from October 31, 2013. Before that, he was designated senior advocate by the Bombay High Court in June 1998 and became additional solicitor general the same year till his appointment as a judge. He practised law at the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court and was a visiting professor of comparative constitutional law at the University of Mumbai. Besides his legal acumen, Chandrachud is known for his love of cricket, which, according to some accounts, he played in the backyard of the bungalow Chandrachud Sr was allotted in Lutyens Delhi. The fond family man is often photographed with his children and wife. He has two lawyer sons, Abhinav and Chintan, and two specially-abled foster daughters Priyanka and Mahi.

Neither Rahul Gandhi nor his descendants will be able to restore Article 370: Amit Shah

Sangli: Neither Congress leader Rahul Gandhi nor his fourth generation will be be able to bring back Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Union minister Amit Shah said on Friday in a stinging attack on the opposition at a poll rally in Maharashtra's Sangli. The J-K assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution seeking a dialogue between the Central government and elected representatives for restoration of Article 370 granting special status to the erstwhile state. The move was hailed by the valley-based political parties while it prompted protests by the main opposition BJP which demanded its rollback. The provision was scrapped on August 5, 2019. Addressing a rally in Sangli for Mahayuti (ruling alliance) candidates Sudhir Gadgil and Sanjay Kaka Patil, the Union Minister said the Congress was supporting the National Conference, the ruling party in J-K, in this endeavour. From the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, I am telling you Rahul baba that neither you nor you fourth generation will be able to restore Article 370. Every child of the country is ready to fight for Kashmir, the senior BJP leader asserted. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the decision to abrogate Article 370, I brought the bill (in Parliament) but Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, Mamta Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav and Stalin opposed the move. They said do not remove Article 370 as it would lead to bloodshed in the Valley. Forget rivers of blood, nobody dared to throw a stone, Shah said. During the UPA government of Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh, terrorist attacks were frequent, but after Modi became PM, the incidents at Uri and Pulwama led to surgical strikes that wiped out terrorists in Pakistan, Shah told the gathering. Modi's efforts led to the construction of a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, which was being stalled by the Congress for the past 70 years, he said. After Modi came to power, in five years, the court's judgement was delivered, the temple's foundation stone was laid, it was constructed and the consecration ceremony took place, he said. Attacking Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for showing a copy of the Constitution at his rallies to attack the BJP, Shah said the Constitution is not an election agenda. The Constitution is about trust but these people (Congress) are seeking votes in the name of the Constitution and bluffing. Today, in one of the poll rallies, copies of the Constitution were distributed. The front cover was okay but the inside pages were blank. Not a single word was printed on them. Gandhi has insulted the Constitution, insulted Babasaheb Ambedkar and people of India, Shah said. Gandhi should tell the people whether the copy of the Constitution that he held while taking oath as MP in Parliament was real or fake, Shah said. Gandhi recently said the country does not need reservations. But as long as the Modi government is in power, no one has the guts to touch the Constitution. Reservations for SCs, STs and OBCs will remain the way it always was, Shah asserted. Maharashtra assembly polls will be held on November 20, while results will be declared on November 23.

CJI Chandrachud: A legacy of landmark verdicts that shaped society and some controversy too

Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, India's 50th Chief Justice, retired. He delivered over 500 judgments. His decisions included the Ayodhya dispute and Article 370. He championed individual rights and court modernization. Chandrachud's tenure saw significant legal and administrative reforms. He advocated for live-streaming court proceedings. He served as Chief Justice from November 2022.

CJI Chandrachud | A Legacy Of Landmark Verdicts That Shaped Society And Some Controversy Too

NEW DELHI, Nov 8: He has judgments such as the Ayodhya land dispute, the abrogation of Article 370 and the decriminalisation of consensual gay sex that shaped society and politics to his name. Indias 50th chief justice D Y Chandrachud, known also for his many pithy statements, leaves an imprint all his own on the annals of legal history. Friday was the last day in court for Chandrachud, or DYC as he is often referred to, capping a long career [] The post CJI Chandrachud | A Legacy Of Landmark Verdicts That Shaped Society And Some Controversy Too appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

From Ayodhya to Article 370: CJI DY Chandrachud leaves behind a stellar legal legacy

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's two-year tenure concludes on November 10, 2024, leaving a legacy of judicial modernization. His term saw the implementation of virtual hearings and landmark judgments, including the Ayodhya Temple verdict, the decriminalization of homosexuality, and the upholding of the abrogation of Article 370. Justice Chandrachud's decisions have significantly impacted India's legal landscape.

Special secretary of UP assembly Brij Bhushan Dubey dies in car accident in Ayodhya

Brij Bhushan Dubey, a 52-year-old Uttar Pradesh assembly special secretary, tragically lost his life in a road accident. The accident occurred while Dubey was traveling with his son, Krishna, who was driving. Their car collided with a truck after an attempted overtake went wrong. While Krishna escaped with minor injuries, Brij Bhushan Dubey succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

You forgot last 500 years: When Kash Patel, who could become the next CIA chief, blasted US media on Ayodhya Ram temple

Kash Patel, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, is under consideration for the position of CIA director. Patel's potential appointment is backed by several Trump supporters and could be facilitated by the Republican majority in the Senate.

Like U.P., bring BJP to power in Jharkhand to 'bulldoze' mafia: Yogi at Koderma poll rally

Mr. Adityanath accused the Congress of creating obstacles to the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya

Like UP, bring BJP to power in Jharkhand to bulldoze mafia: Yogi

Ranchi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday accused the JMM-led coalition in Jharkhand of patronising mafia and urged people to vote for BJP which would ulldoze them. Adityanath also claimed that such actions were being taken against the mafia in his home state Uttar Pradesh. He also claimed that it is the BJP that can guarantee security and safety to people. The JMM-led coalition is patronising mafia in sectors, such as land, sand, forest, mining, and liquor, in Jharkhand...Like UP, bring the BJP to power in Jharkhand to bulldoze mafia, he claimed while addressing an election rally in Koderma. Adityanath also alleged, Like Aurangzeb looted the country's wealth and destroyed temples, the JMM-led coalition and its ministers, including Alamgir Alam looted Jharkhand's people. He claimed that the BJP is the only party that can guarantee the country's security and pride, women's empowerment and employment to youths. Adityanath accused the Congress of creating obstacles to the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Ram Lala now sits in that temple after 500 years and Ram temple consecration has paved the way for Mathura and other temples, he said. Elections to the 81-member Jharkhand assembly will be held on November 13 and 20, while the counting of votes polled will take place on November 23.

Nothing wrong in PM Narendra Modi's visit to my residence on Ganpati: CJI D Y Chandrachud

NEW DELHI: Addressing questions over the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his official residence for Ganpati prayers, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud on Monday said there was othing wrong in it and underscored the need for a sense of maturity in political sphere on such issues. Following the PM's visit at the CJI residence, opposition parties led by the Congress and a section of lawyers had raised concerns over propriety and separation of powers between the judiciary and the executive. The BJP, on the other hand, dismissed the criticism as unwarranted and said it was a part of our culture. Speaking at an event organised by the Indian Express , CJI Chandrachud said one has to respect that the dialogue between the judiciary and the executive takes place as a part of the robust inter-institutional mechanism and separation of powers does not mean the two will not meet. The separation of powers concept does not postulate that judiciary and executive are antagonist in the sense they will not meet or not engage in a reasoned dialogue. In the states, there is a protocol of chief justice and the administrative committee of the high court meeting the chief minister and on the chief minister meeting the chief justice at their residence. In most of these meetings, you are discussing basic issues like budgeting, infrastructure, technology etc, he said. On the prime minister's visit, the CJI shared, The PM visited my residence for Ganpati puja. I do feel, there is absolutely nothing wrong as these are continuing meetings between the judiciary and the executive even at the social level. We meet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Republic Day, etc. We are in conversation with the prime minister and the ministers. This conversation does not involve the cases which we decide but life and society in general. The CJI, who demits office on November 10, said, There has to be a sense of maturity in the political system to understand this and trust our judges because the work we do is evaluated by our written word. Everything we decide is not kept in wraps and is open to scrutiny. He said a robust dialogue taking place between the executive and the judiciary on the administrative side had nothing to do with the judicial side. What the separation of powers postulates is that the judiciary should not be performing the role of the executive which is defining policies because the power to frame policy belongs to the government. Likewise the executive does not decide the cases. So long we have this in mind. Dialogue has to take place because you are dealing with the careers and the lives of people in the judiciary, he said. The CJI said the dialogue between the judiciary and the executive had nothing to do with how cases were decided. That has been my experience, the CJI said. Even his statement of having prayed to God for a solution to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir dispute had attracted considerable clamour. On Monday, CJI Chandrachud called himself a person of faith who respected all religions equally. It is a problem of social media. You must have the backdrop of where I was speaking, he said. His statement had come while addressing the residents of his native Kanhersar Village in Khed Taluka during a felicitation ceremony, when he said he had prayed to God for a solution to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute and asserted God will find a way if one has faith. Very often we have cases (to adjudicate) but we don't arrive at a solution. Something similar happened during the Ayodhya (Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute) which was in front of me for three months. I sat before the deity and told him he needs to find a solution, he had said.

Ayodhya: Raees abuses and attacks his Ram Bhakt relative Anees and his family for playing Ram Aayenge to Angna Sajaungi Bhajan during deepotsav

In Ayodhya, Raees Khan and his two sons launched an attack with axes, sticks and guns on Ram Bhakt Anees Khan and his family members for listening to a Bhajan.

Canada Hindu temple attack: Condemning not enough, action should be taken, says Ram Mandir chief priest

The Chief Priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has urged for strict action against those responsible for the recent attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton, Canada. The incident, which involved the disruption of an Indian consular camp, has drawn condemnation from both the Indian High Commission and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Devineni Avinash takes over as YSRC NTR district chief

Vijayawada: YSRC leader Devineni Avinash assumed charge as NTR district party president at a programme in Vijayawada on Sunday. Speaking on the occasion, former minister and YSRC senior leader Perni Venkataramaiah alias Nani criticised both Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan for getting intoxicated with power and harassing YSRC leaders and workers. Those who trouble us will suffer tenfold in return, Nani remarked, asserting that YSRC will show its strength well before the next elections. Rajya Sabha member Alla Ayodhya Rami Reddy said simultaneous elections will be held in Andhra Pradesh within two years. He said YSRC will continue to work for the people and definitely come back to power after the simultaneous elections.

Former sarpanch of Haryana village starts 'Menopause Classes for Men' campaign

CHANDIGARH: Former sarpanch of Bibipur village in Haryana, Sunil Jaglan has started the 'Menopause Classes for Men' campaign in a bid to break down the stigma of menopause, considered a taboo in womens health. The campaign is being run from the village chaupals to the universities. In the last ten months, 70 such classes in the villages across Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, besides a few universities, have been held. Talking with this newspaper, Sunil Jaglan says, I have held such classes in the Jind, Gurugram, Hisar, Nuh and Rewari districts in Haryana; Ayodhya, Merrut and Lucknow districts in Uttar Pradesh; Bhopal, Ujjain and Indore districts in Madhya Pradesh; Mumbai, Nagpur and Wardha in Maharashtra besides a few universities. A few days ago, I visited several villages in Haryana and organised these classes at the village chaupal. Men ranging from 25 to 70 years of age attended the classes. When I started discussing the topic of menopause, a few people even got up and left. Others sat silently, exchanging glances or looking down. However, I was determined to initiate the conversation on menopause and continued talking. After a while, the atmosphere turned more relaxed, and it became clear that men over 40 years had little knowledge about menopause, he said. While older married men knew that a woman's periods stop at some point, they did not understand why it was such a big deal, Jaglan added. Jaglan shared that a few said that menopause saves money as they don't have to buy menstrual products anymore. He also shared that a few even commented that Menopause is good as they no longer need to use protection during sex. The men had no idea that the hormonal changes during menopause seriously affect a woman's health. These changes go beyond just physical symptoms and also impact her mental and emotional well-being, he said. When I explained how men can support their wives and mothers during menopause, some started nodding in agreement, while others remained silent. This is a crucial topic that needs to be discussed openly, he added. Recalling how it all started, Jaglan says, When I was a child, I used to watch an advertisement on the television in which a girl sits quietly while others girls were playing. The girls even asked her what was going on and said that something should be happening... When I questioned my parents what was this advertisement on, I never got an answer. In 2012, after becoming Sarpanch, I brought a pad-making machine for the women of the village but when I started telling women about it, I realized that I did not know anything about the subject. I started learning about the topic. In 2016, we started the 'Padmitra campaign', at that point of time, when people used to post photos on social media with a pad in hand, people used to trail them, but I did not give up. Later, Padmitra was written in the profiles on social media and people accepted it, he said. Jaglan added that he started reading more about periods and even started a 'period chart campaign' starting from his daughter Nandini. In 2019, a 'period chart campaign' was started in which the period dates of all the women of the house were written on a chart and was put on the wall. It was initially not accepted by the people, the family members tore the charts but we did not give up. Today, period charts have been installed in more than 40,000 houses, he said. Jaglan said that in 2022, Lado Panchayat was organized and a demand was made to the Union Government to provide one day period leave working women in government and non-government places.

Ram on his way to Jungle

Even though Sumantra had faithfully conveyed to him Raja Dashraths plea to return to Ayodhya after a short trip to jungle, Ram insisted on staying back. He persuaded Sumantra instead to carryhis messages to everyone dear to him in the capital.For the next fourteen years, he wanted to relinquish the life of a prince and live the life of a hermit. Balmiki says that Ram told Guha the chief of boatsmen of his desire to recede to uninhabited [] The post Ram on his way to Jungle appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

People across India revel in Diwali; Delhi defies firecracker ban

NEW DELHI: Colourful lights decked up buildings and diyas (earthen lamps) dotted houses as people across the country celebrated Diwali with great enthusiasm on Thursday. In the national capital, Delhiites defied the firecracker ban as the city's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category with an AQI of 327 at 9 pm. Keeping up his tradition of celebrating the festival with soldiers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sir Creek near the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat's Kutch district and offered sweets to jawans. Modi said India cannot compromise on even an inch of land on its borders, adding the people believe in the strength of its armed forces for defending the country. In the past, attempts were made to turn this region into a battlefield. The enemy has set its eyes on this region for a long time. But we are not worried as you are guarding the nation. Our enemy also knows it well, he asserted. People of India feel their country is safe because of you; when the world sees you, it sees India's strength, when enemies see you, they see the end of their sinister plans, the prime minister said, addressing personnel of the Border Security Force, Army, Navy and Air Force. Modi also called on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar separately and greeted them on Diwali. One of the most popular Hindu festivals, Diwali is associated with the day Lord Ram is believed to have returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman after defeating demon king Ravana during his 14 years in exile. The festival is seen as a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Dressed in traditional attire, people greeted each other, exchanged sweets and gifts, and visited temples. Meanwhile, troops of India and China exchanged sweets at several border points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), including at locations in eastern Ladakh, on the occasion of Diwali. The exchange took place at all the five Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points along the LAC -- Bum La and Wacha/Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh, Chushul-Moldo and Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh and Nathu La in Sikkim -- among several other locations, sources said. 'Diyas' being lit during the Diwali festival celebration, at Lal Chowk in Srinagar, Thursday, Oct 31, 2024. The celebrations across the country were largely incident free. However, in Uttar Pradesh, six people, including four of a family, were killed when a tempo they were travelling in was hit by a tractor in the Mujaria area of Budaun, police said. The victims, who worked as vegetable vendors in Noida, were returning home to celebrate Diwali. In Andhra Pradesh, a man died after the firecrackers he was carrying on a two-wheeler exploded in Eluru town, police said. In UP, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated Diwali with the forest dwellers of Vantangiya village in Gorakhpur. He said people dividing society along caste, regional, and linguistic lines have the DNA of Ravan and Duryodhan, and warned that anyone who attempts to disrupt peace or get involved in crime against women would be dealt with strictly. During his visit to the area, the chief minister inaugurated 74 development projects valued at Rs 185 crore across various gram panchayats. In the national capital, the sky lit up as people celebrated Diwali defying a ban on firecrackers. Areas including Lajpat Nagar, Kalkaji, Chhatarpur, Jaunapur, East of Kailash, Saket, Rohini, Dwarka, Punjabi Bagh, Vikas Puri, Dilshad Garden, Burari and many other neighbourhoods of east and west Delhi saw firecrackers being burst. With the 24-hour AQI recorded at 328 at 4 pm, the city experienced its worst air quality on Diwali in the last three years. In West Bengal, Kali Puja and Diwali were celebrated with gaiety and fervour, with decorated pandals creating a festive spirit across the state. With only green fireworks allowed by the administration as per the earlier orders of a court, police and state pollution control board officials kept vigil to prevent flouting of the rule. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel light candles to celebrate the Diwali festival near the Indo-Bangladesh Border, at Atila, Tapan, in Dakshin Dinajpur district of West Bengal, Thursday, Oct 31, 2024. Long queues were seen at the famed Tarapith, Dakshineswar, Kalighat, Thanthania, and other Kali temples across the state. In Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the Lansdowne cantonment to celebrate Diwali with army soldiers, saying he felt fortunate to be with them on the auspicious occasion. Paying tribute to the martyrs by offering a wreath at the war memorial there, Dhami said, We can light diyas at our homes on Diwali only because our brave soldiers live away from their families to protect the country's borders. Dhami also distributed sweets and gifts among the soldiers, widows of martyrs and their children. In Rajasthan, the festival of light was celebrated with great enthusiasm. Markets were vibrant and bustling until late Wednesday night with people flocking to buy new clothes, sweets, firecrackers and other festive items. CM Bhajanlal Sharma and other leaders extended Diwali greetings on X. Meanwhile, more than 20 lakh devotees gathered at Chitrakoot on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh on the occasion of Diwali, an official said. According to mythology, Lord Ram spent the better part of his 14-year exile at Chitrakoot, located on the banks of the Mandakini river. Devotees took a dip in the river and performed a `deep-daan' ceremony. Fireworks light the sky at the illuminated Akshardham temple on the occasion of the Diwali Festival, in Jaipur, Thursday, Oct 31, 2024. In Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi wished people on the occasion of Diwali and emphasised his government's commitment to take the state to new heights. My heartiest congratulations to all the brothers and sisters of Odisha on the occasion of Diwali, the festival of light and joy, Majhi said in a video message on his X handle. In the coastal state of Goa, the celebrations took off after the burning of Narakasur demon effigies in the early hours. As per traditions, the effigies were taken around before they were burnt to mark the victory of good over evil.

Ayodhyas Deepotsav Shines With Two Guinness World Records: Highest Number Of 'Aarti' Performers And Largest Oil Lamp Display

Video: Bhagyalaxmi temple in Hyderabad adorned like Ram Mandir in Ayodhya

Hyderabad: This Diwali, the Bhagyalaxmi temple in Hyderabad has been decorated to resemble the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Many worshippers were seen visiting the temple, which is located near the historic Charminar. #WATCH | Hyderabad, Telangana: Shri Bhagyalaxmi temple near Charminar decorated like Ayodhya Ram temple, on the occasion of #Diwali pic.twitter.com/zLmpRXZLXy ANI (@ANI) October Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Watch: Ayodhya Dazzles With Over 25 Lakh Diyas Creating Two Guinness Records

Happy Diwali

Diwali 2024: Know How the Diyas Were Counted at Ayodhya's Record-Setting Deepotsav

Diwali 2024: The records that were set were for the largest display of oil lamps and most number of people performing an aarti simultaneously, representatives of the Guinness World Records declared

Want To See 2,500,000 Diyas?

30,000 volunteers lit 2.5 million diyas in Ayodhya.

Deepotsav 8.0: Ayodhya sets two world records

Two Guinness World Records -- most people performing 'aarti' simultaneously and the largest display of oil lamps -- were set at the eighth edition of Deepotsav in Ayodhya on Wednesday.

Video: Ayodhya Sparkles With Over 25 Lakh Diyas On Deepotsav, A New Record

The grand Deepostav celebrations in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya saw over 25 lakh earthen lamps being lit together in an initiative aimed at creating a Guinness record.

Morning Brief: Trudeaus Officials Acknowledge Conspiracy With Washington Post To Smear India; 'It's Ayodhyas Turn To Prove Itself,' Yogi Tells Temple Town; And More

'Divine festival of lights...' PM Narendra Modi extend his wishes on festival Diwali

This Diwali is particularly significant as Ayodhya celebrated the festival for the first time since the inauguration of the Ram Temple in January.

Ayodhya sets Guinness World Records with 25 lakh diyas lit, 1,121 people performing aarti together

The two records were set on 55 ghats, including Ram ki Paidi, on the banks of the Saryu River in the holy city

Diwali 2024: Ayodhya Deepotsav sets Guinness World Records with over 25 lakh diyas lit, 1121 people performing...

The counting of diyas was done using drones. Pravin Patel, the adjudicator at Guinness World Records, who visited Ayodhya with Guinness Consultant Nischal Bharot for verification, announced the new records here on Wednesday evening.

Moment Comes After 500 Years: PM Modi on 1st Diwali at Ayodhya

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said this is the first Diwali after the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram in his magnificent temple in Ayodhya and asserted that this auspicious moment has come after 500 years with the countless sacrifices and penance of Ram bhakts.Tagging a post by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Modi said in a post in Hindi on X: Divine Ayodhya! This is the first Deepawali after the consecration ceremony of Lord Shri Ram, the epitome of virtue, in his magnificent temple. The unique beauty of Shri Ram Lalla's temple in Ayodhya is going to overwhelm everyone. After 500 years, this auspicious moment has come with the countless sacrifices and penance of Ram bhakts. It is our good fortune that all of us have become witnesses to this historic occasion, Modi said. I am confident that the life of Lord Shri Ram and his ideals will continue to be an inspiration for the people of the country in achieving the resolution of a developed India, he added. The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, in its post, shared pictures of the temple illuminated by lights and said on the eve of Diwali, the Ram temple shines with a divine glow. In another post in Hindi on X, Modi also hailed the Deepotsav being celebrated in Ayodhya with the lighting of lamps. Amazing, incomparable and unimaginable! Many congratulations to the people of Ayodhya for the grand and divine Deepotsav! This 'Jyotiparva' at the holy birthplace of Ram Lalla, illuminated by millions of diyas, is going to make everyone emotional, he said. This beam of light emanating from Ayodhya Dham will fill my family members across the country with new enthusiasm and new energy. I wish that Lord Shri Ram blesses all the people of the country with happiness, prosperity and success in life, the prime minister said. An idol of Ram Lalla was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple in January, a landmark event led by Modi who had also given a clarion call to go beyond the grand temple's construction to build the foundation of a strong, capable and divine India of the next 1,000 years. Lakhs of people watched the consecration ceremony on television in their homes and neighbourhood temples, savouring the historic moment.

Deepotsav Begins in Ayodhya, CM Adityanath Leads Celebrations

Ayodhya (UP) : Thousands of earthen lamps were lit on the bank of Saryu River in Ayodhya in a world record-setting attempt to mark the eighth 'Deepotsav' on Wednesday. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations as he, along with his cabinet members and others, lit the first few lamps to mark the launch of the Deepostav -- the first since the consecration of Ram Lalla temple on January 22 this year. The entire town was decked up for the event even as music dedicated to Lord Ram beamed from all corners reverberating in the air. Adityanath first had 'darshan' of Lord Ram, then paid his respects at his feet, according to a statement from the government. After this, the Chief Minister lit lamps in front of the Lord. The Chief Minister also lit five lamps outside, it said. The hashtag 'Sabka_Utsav_Ayodhya_Deepotsav' trended on X. The Ram Temple was visited on the occasion by several ministers and other dignitaries, including Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak. Ayodhya was all about festivities on Wednesday as a procession with vibrant tableaux bearing characters from Ramayan made its way through the temple town as part of the eighth Deepotsav celebration. At its conclusion, the procession carrying the mythical characters was received with an 'aarti' by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who also pulled the chariot on which artistes playing Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman were seated. The characters were brought to Ayodhya earlier in a helicopter, in a nod to the mythical Pushpak Viman referred to in Ramayan. Eighteen tableaux depicting episodes from Ramcharitmanas were showcased during the procession which moved stately from Saket Mahavidyalaya to Ram Katha Park to the sound of firecrackers and bursts of gulal. The floats were inaugurated by Culture and Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh, MLA Ved Prakash Gupta, and Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi. Saket College students illustrated the 'Putrayeshti' Yagna and Shri Ram's coronation, taken from Ramcharitmanas, in their tableaux. Folk artists narrated the depictions live. For this year's Deepotsav, Saket Mahavidyalaya has crafted 18 stunning tableaux, 11 by the Information Department and seven by the Tourism Department. The Tourism Department's tableaux depicted scenes from Bal Kand, Ayodhya Kand, Aranya Kand, Kishkindha Kand, Sundar Kand, Lanka Kand, and Uttar Kand, taken from Tulsidas's Ramcharitmanas. Special displays illustrating key episodes in Lord Ram's life -- his education and marriage to Sita, the forest exile, Bharat Milaap, Shabri's devotion, Ashok Vatika, Hanuman's journey to Lanka, Laxman's injury from Shakti arrow, Ravana's defeat, and his grand return to Ayodhya -- were also mounted during the procession. We are representing the culture of our state and are feeling blessed, said Sakshi, a participant belonging to Jammu and Kashmir. Vishal Sharma, another participant from J&K, said he was grateful to be a part of the first Diwali celebration after the temple's consecration. Iqbal Ansari, a litigant in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case, welcomed the procession. It's a moment of joy for everyone as it is a festive occasion. We are also celebrating like others. The Uttar Pradesh government is aiming to create a new world record this year by lighting over 28 lakh diyas along the banks of the Saryu River later this evening. Officials said that an order for the diyas has been placed with the local artisans. The government has made arrangements to host around 5,000 to 6,000 people at the ghats. Forty jumbo LED screens have been set up to beam the event live. The Deepotsav will feature performances by artists from Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia and a staging of Ram Lila from Uttarakhand.

PM Modi hails 'alokik' Ayodhyas historic Diwali celebration, sees Lord Rams legacy guiding India forward

PM Narendra Modi celebrates the historic Diwali in Ayodhya with Lord Ram enthroned in his grand temple after 500 years. The Deepotsav event sets two Guinness World Records for the largest aarti gathering and display of oil lamps, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

PM Modi Says Diwali Celebrations At Ayodhyas Ram Temple End 500-Year Wait

Narendra Modi pointed out that this is the first Diwali that is being celebrated in Ayodhyas Ram Mandir after its inauguration.

Spotlight on Deepavali Villages on Diwali Day in AP

Visakhapatnam: On the Diwali day, two villages, one near Srikakulam in Gara mandal and another in Ayodhyapuram panchayat of Tekkali mandal, come under spotlight, as they are named Deepavali. The Deepavali village in Gara mandal covers 143 hectares and has a total population of 1,181 people. Locals say their village had been named Deepavali by King Kalinga, who ruled the Srikakulam region. As per the story, the king would go from Srikakulam to Kalingapatnam every day on his horse. On the way, he stopped at Lakshminarayana Temple near Srikurman. Once, while arriving at the temple on the Diwali day, he fell from his horse and lost consciousness. Vaishnavas and cowherds at the Lakshminarayana Temple revived him. When King Kalinga woke up, he asked those who helped him the name of the village. They said the village had no name. Since this incident took place on Diwali, the king named the village Deepavali and announced waiver of all taxes collected from the village. Since then, this village has continued to be called Deepavali, with the name also figuring in revenue records. Diwali is celebrated in both the Deepavali villages for five days, residents V. Srinu and A. Ramakrishna told Deccan Chronicle . Families come together to share meals, exchange sweets and engage in playful banter, strengthening relationships and promoting community cohesion. At nightfall, villagers share stories, sing traditional songs, and partake in cultural performances, creating a captivating ambiance for both residents and visitors.

News18 Evening Digest: Double Guinness Records Set At Ayodhya Deepotsav And Other Stories

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Ayodhya Sets Guinness World Records With Over 25 Lakh Diyas Lit, 1,121 People Performing Aarti

AYODHYA, Oct 30: Two Guinness World Records most people performing aarti simultaneously and the largest display of oil lamps were set at the eighth edition of Deepotsav here on Wednesday. The two records were set in the holy city with over 25 lakh earthen lamps (diyas) lit together and 1,121 vedacharyas (teachers of religious texts) performing aarti simultaneously. Pravin Patel, the adjudicator at Guinness World Records, who visited Ayodhya with Guinness Consultant Nischal Bharot for verification, announced the [] The post Ayodhya Sets Guinness World Records With Over 25 Lakh Diyas Lit, 1,121 People Performing Aarti appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Ayodhya Deepotsav: Two Guinness Records Add Spark To Diwali Celebrations

The records were for the most people performing diya rotation simultaneously and for the largest display of oil lamps