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Kaneri Math seer defends his use of language against Lingayat seers
He says that the words he uttered are commonly used words in colloquial language in North Karnataka region
Gaya DM releases Mahabodhi Mahaviharas annual calendar
In a ceremonial event, the District Magistrate of Gaya proudly presented the 2026 calendar for the Mahabodhi Mahavihara, emphasizing the recent initiatives aimed at enriching the visitor experience. Among these are the newly inaugurated BTMC facility, the implementation of solar power systems, and enhanced accessibility with wider ramps.
Four new regional offices of ATS to come up in state
In a decisive move to strengthen its fight against terrorism, Bihar Police is setting up four new regional offices for its Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in Gaya, Motihari, Darbhanga, and Purnia. This expansion is designed to enhance intelligence activities and improve operational capabilities throughout the state, with each office managed by a dedicated deputy SP.
Bihar minister Ashok Choudharys assistant professor appointment withheld amid UGC probe
PATNA: Bihar Education Minister Sunil Kumar on Monday clarified that the appointment of his ministerial colleague and Janata Dal (United) leader Ashok Choudhary as assistant professor has been withheld as an investigation is underway into some discrepancies in the relevant file. The probe is being conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The process of posting candidates will begin after receiving the inquiry report from the UGC, the minister said, adding that the report is still awaited. Although the minister did not disclose the reason for withholding Choudharys appointment, authoritative sources said that his educational certificates mention his name as Ashok Kumar, while the affidavit submitted to the Election Commission shows his name as Ashok Choudhary. This discrepancy led to confusion. As a result, the matter has been referred to the UGC seeking its opinion, a senior officer of the state education department said, adding that further action will be taken based on the UGCs report. Choudhary is among 274 candidates whose names were shortlisted for appointment as assistant professors in political science. The candidates were interviewed, and results were declared in June this year. The vacancy was advertised in 2020, yet successful candidates have not been posted. If the process moves as expected, Choudhary will join as an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science at Patliputra University. He will resign from his post as Minister of State for the Rural Works Department. Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Asit Nath Tiwari raised questions over Choudharys doctorate degree (Ph.D) from Magadh University, Bodh Gaya. I have doubts over his doctorate degree. It should be verified properly and without any pressure from the powers that be, he told the media. Earlier, Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav also questioned the authenticity of Choudharys educational qualifications. When did he appear for the examination? Did anybody see him in the examination hall? People would like to know, he said. Dismissing allegations, Choudhary said that he completed his masters degree from Patna University in 1991 and was awarded a Ph.D from Magadh University, Bodh Gaya, in 2005. His political career began with Congress, and he later became state president of the party. In 2018, he quit Congress and joined Nitish Kumars JD(U). He was elected legislator from the Barbigha Assembly constituency twice and is now a member of the State Legislative Council. He is also considered close to Chief Minister and JD(U) supremo Nitish Kumar. The appointment of Choudhary as an assistant professor while serving as a minister in the Nitish Kumar cabinet has raised many eyebrows.
Forest ranger injured in Gaya attack
Ek Murder Ho Gaya Hai: Pak Cop Trolled For Case Call During Podcast
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shehrbano Naqvi of Lahore was seen taking a phone call mid-interview and returning an hour later, having handled the case.
AP Dhillon's Mumbai concert went viral after a cheek-kiss moment with Tara Sutaria on stage and her boyfriend Veer Pahariya's serious reaction caught netizens' attention, leading to mixed online reactions.
Plan to double originating train capacity in 48 cities
NEW DELHI: In a first-of-its-kind initiative amid sustained growth in passenger travel demand, the Ministry of Railways has decided to expand coaching terminals and enhance sectional and operational capacities in a planned manner over the next five years. The objective is to meet emerging and projected travel demand by 2030 across 48 major cities in the country. After extensive deliberations covering all aspects, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has accorded priority to this long-pending requirement, setting a deadline for completion by 2030. The initiative aims to significantly ease congestion at busy stations that witness heavy footfalls of originating and terminating passengers. We are expanding coaching terminals, enhancing sectional and operational capacities in various cities to meet rising passenger demand and reducecongestions, Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Friday.Under this mega plan, the railways intend to double train-handling capacity in 48 major cities over the next five years. Short- and medium-term measures proposed by railway zones will contribute to the required capacity addition, particularly at high-density stations. The plan includes major infrastructure upgrades such as construction of additional platforms and terminals in and around urban areas, along with multi-functional facilities to handle new originating trains. Cities identified for these developments include Mumbai, Hyderabad, Jodhpur, Bangalore, Kolkata, Delhi, Pune, Chennai, Gaya, Patna, Puri, Jammu and several others. Existing infrastructure will be augmented to meet future requirements through the creation of additional platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and adequate shunting facilities. As part of the effort to double the number of originating trains, the railways will identify and develop new terminals in and around urban centres, supported by maintenance facilities. A critical component of the plan involves increasing sectional capacity through traffic facility works, signalling upgrades and multi-tracking, which will be essential to manage higher train volumes at key locations. For instance, in Pune, Hadapsar, Khadki and Alandi have been identified for capacity enhancement, alongside additional platforms and stabling lines at Pune station. Following the Railway Ministers directive, a comprehensive, city-wise plan for all 48 major cities is under consideration, covering works that are planned, proposed or already sanctioned to achieve the target of doubling train-handling capacity within a defined timeframe. The cities included in the plan are Delhi, Mumbai (CR, WR), Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Patna, Lucknow, Pune, Nagpur, Varanasi among others. Notably, a majority of these stations experience consistently high footfalls due to pilgrimage traffic throughout the year.
Ward member, husband found murdered in Gaya
In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through Gaya district, the brutal slaying of farmers Keshari Devi and Pradeep Yadav in their humble farm hut has raised alarming questions about safety in rural areas. Discovered in the early hours, both victims had their throats cut while they fiercely protected their hard-earned harvest.
Karkalas Yaksha Rangayana to perform three plays in Bengaluru
YakshaRangayana,establishedinKarkalainMarch2022,is among the sixbranchesofRangayanain the State.
IIM CAP 2026 explained: What CAT-qualified candidates need to know about the next admission stage
The CAT 2025 results have initiated the IIM admission process, with the Common Admission Process (CAP) 2026 serving as a primary route for many. This year, fewer IIMs like IIM Jammu, Bodh Gaya, and Sirmaur are expected to participate in CAP, streamlining the interview stage for shortlisted candidates. Final selection considers CAT scores, interview performance, academics, work experience, and diversity.
Airports witness 7% surge in passenger traffic during November 2025 over same period last year
NEW DELHI: Airports across the country have recorded a 7% increase in passenger traffic during November 2025 as compared to the same month last year, according to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Air Traffic data for last month has just been released by the Authority. Over 3.79 crore flyers were recorded in the country last month, of which a little over three crore were domestic flyers. The overall international growth in the month was 7.5% (70,60,493 vs 65,69,934) while the domestic growth was 7% (3,79,51,054 vs 3,54,52,122) over the compared month last year. The domestic passenger traffic in relatively smaller airports has been in healthy double digits highlighting the aspiration for air travel among the non-metro population. Despite the negative publicity for Goa due to its taxi monopoly, overpriced hotels and overcrowded beaches, international patronage to the tourist haven has shot up by 31. 4%. A total of 20,479 flyers travelled last month as compared to 15,581 flyers in November 2024. Its domestic patronage has taken a beating with a 10.5% dip in flyers with just 5.4 lakh passengers from other States visiting it last month. The number was 6.1 lakh visitors in November last year. While the biggies have seen moderate growth, relatively smaller airports have recorded a growth of over 30% international passengers in November this year over the patronage witnessed in the same month last year. Bhubaneswar has seen a growth of 30.5% (14,220 flyers) Tiruchirappalli has 39.9% (19,402 flyers), Varanasi 40.4% (16,070 flyers) and Mangaluru 35.4% (76,579 flyers), Indore has doubled its patronage with a 99.9% growth (8,902 flyers as compared to 4,454 earlier) while Pune has seen a 49% patronage with 30,633 flyers. Among the major airports in the country, Bengalurus Kempegowda International Airport continues its steady international growth with 6,42,647 passengers, a 27.3% increase in November 2025 vs November 2024. Hyderabad too has seen significant patronage with a 21% growth (4,86,126 flyers). Mumbai has seen a 6.5% (14,61,956 flyers) Chennai 6.1% (5,03,589) growth while Delhi has seen a 3% increase (19,07,845). Domestic picture On the domestic front, these airports have recorded a substantial growth with the patronage figure in the bracket Agra 77% (26470 flyers), Kozhikode 34.3% (16,90,918 flyers); Tiruchirappalli 50.9% (65,297); Tirupati 30.7% (1,08,441); Kannur 35.8% (35,637), Gaya 38.7% (27,862), Belagavi 32.1% (32118) and Indore 26.6% (27862). Hindon airport has seen a 2998% growth! It is 1,22,381 flyers versus 3,950 last November. Adampur (Jalandhar) has seen a 319.7% surge with 13,595 passengers, Rewa has recorded 179.9% surge (949 flyers) Jaisalmer 121.5% growth (43,971) while Bhuj has seen a 110% growth with 26,687 flyers. The Air Traffic Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have seen an increase of 7.3% with 40,909 ATMs recorded in November 2025 over November 2024. The freight growth too is a healthy 15.6% with 337.45 thousand tonnes versus 291.84 thousand tonnes in the compared period.
More than 1 thousand devotees participate on first day of Sakya Monlam
In the heart of Bodh Gaya, the 10-day Sakya Monlam is underway, gathering a vibrant community of over a thousand devotees from Tibet and the northeastern regions of India. Under the wise guidance of Kyabgon Gongma Trichen Rinpoche, these participants unite in prayer beneath the revered Bodhi tree, seeking universal peace and harmony.
Rape Survivor Attempts Suicide, Names Madhya Pradesh BJP Leader's Family In Note
In Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri, a woman who had accused Rajat Sharma, son of BJP leader and Shivpuri Municipal Council President Gayatri Sharma, of rape attempted suicide by consuming sleeping pills and rat poison, police said.
Blending graphite art and 'kutcheri'
While Margazhi remains rooted in tradition, the way it is being experienced is evolving. Across the city, artists are responding to the season with interdisciplinary projects that integrate music, visual art, and performance, reflecting a growing desire to engage with classical forms beyond conventional concert formats. It is within this evolving Margazhi that Rag Rekha, a three-day art exhibition by Carnatic vocalist and artist Jayakrishnan Unni, finds its place. Featuring over 100 hand-drawn pencil portraits of Indian classical musicians and dancers, the exhibition is to be held from December 26 to 28 at CP Arts Centre, Alwarpet, offers a quieter counterpoint to the seasons sonic abundance. Presented by Faber-Castell along with Poorvi, and supported by ACHEVE Foundation (USA), Rag Rekha positions itself as an invitation to immerse rasikas into multidisciplinary art this season. The show is the culmination of Jayakrishnans works that he has been creating over the last five years. For him, the coming together of music and visual art feels natural rather than experimental. Although these are of different facets, ultimately it is from the same person, he says. Everything that we do will have some taste that unites it, although the other things might be quite diverse in nature. Painting, sketching, music and rhythm, inevitably intersect because they stem from the same artistic impulse. The portraits themselves are rendered either in graphite on white paper or white pencil on black. While the medium may appear minimal, the intent is anything but superficial. Each portrait is not just the face. Its about them (the artists) exploring a raga , exploring a line, exploring a swara , he says, adding that he attempts to capture the inner world of performance. Many of these works took shape during the pandemic when Jayakrishnan returned to pencil after years of working with acrylic and oil. Working in pencil gives me a sort of meditative feel, he says. What began as an occasional exercise soon became habitual, especially as he started drawing portraits to mark remembrance days or significant moments in musicians lives. As musicians, we are always grateful to the great masters who have given us so much. They are our heroes, he says. The decision to stage Rag Rekha during Margazhi was deliberate. This is the time when the air in Chennai is filled with music, he notes, adding that the exhibitions resonance is inseparable from the city. During Margazhi, musicians are like superheroes. Nobody is looking at you strangely if youre holding a tambura and walking down the street. Outside Chennai, he feels the works would still be appreciated as portraits, but the deeper musical recognition comes alive here. The gallery space is designed to reflect this confluence. Portraits line the walls, while live Carnatic concerts unfold at the centre. We are trying to bring a confluence of art and music, he says. Its not just about looking at the paintings, its also about feeling the music that is there. Visitors can move and view the works or sit through performances surrounded by faces of musicians who have shaped the art form. Concerts form a key part of the exhibition, with performances by Sooryagayathri, Kalyanapuram Aravind, Sriranjani Santhanagopalan, and Jayakrishnan, with an interaction with dancer Meera Srinivasan on the creative process, on December 27. Ultimately, Jayakrishnan sees Rag Rekha as an offering to rasikas as much as to artistes. Quoting his guru , he says, For a lamp to be seen, there should be eyes. Otherwise, however much light the lamp spreads, there is no use.
B Tech student from Gaya found dead in Noida hostel
A Bengaluru electrician, Anant, has been arrested for allegedly killing his wife, Gayatri. He initially tried to pass off her death as a road accident. Police grew suspicious after doctors noted her injuries. Anant confessed to the crime, citing anger over neglect and financial disputes. Gayatri was a school teacher.
Man of the moment: K Gowtham speaks following his retirement announcement
The hall at the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) in the city briefly fell silent before it was filled with camera flashes and the sharp rhythm of shutter clicks. Standing under the lights, with KSCA president and former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad by his side, and in the presence of his close friends and family members on Monday, all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham announced his retirement from competitive cricket. As the noise of the press conference faded and the evening light settled, Gowtham, looking calmer and perhaps a little lighter than he was minutes before, sat down to reflect. Inside the hall, though emotions lingered, clarity began to take shape. Retirement does break hearts and it was emotional for me as well. But there are things Im genuinely looking forward to, especially spending a lot more time with my family, he says. As he looks back, theres one feeling that remains unshakable, the moment he wore Team India colours. Every cricketer dreams of playing for their country. I was fortunate to be one of those. At that moment, you just want to freeze time and hold on to it forever, he reflects with sparkle in his eyes. Even as he steps away from the pitch, Gowtham isnt stepping away from cricket. Instead, he will be staying within the system, mentoring, contributing and nudging the next generation forward. Cricket has given me everything. If there is an opportunity, I want to be around the game, he shares. Gowtham during his stint with CSK Starting with Rajasthan Royals, the 37-year-old ruled the Indian Premier League (IPL) and went on to be a part of league biggies, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kings XI Punjab. He became the most expensive uncapped player in the history of IPL back in 2021, when he was signed by CSK for a whopping `9.25 crore. CSK is also the one who instantly softens his tone. Choosing one is tough from the IPL teams. But, I would say CSK felt more like a family. Fun, surprises, ups and downs, just like a real family, he admits. Yet the format that leaves the deepest imprint on his heart is the long, quiet burn of red-ball cricket, which, he thinks, he has contributed towards quite decently and will also miss the most. Perhaps that explains the emotional resilience that shaped his journey, as he speaks about the low points and sporadic opportunities during his IPL appearances ,My life has been a lot more failure than success. But that made me mentally strong. It taught me to control only what I can. I lived by that, he reveals. The boy who walked into the academy at 13 never really left; he only grew up with the game. He smiles, remembering Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh as his childhood heroes, adding that he was nicknamed Bhajii for imitating Singhs style. I was a ball boy then. I was fortunate enough to bowl to Sachin during a series against Australia at Chinnaswamy. He was busy then, obviously. He is serious when he prepares and we would be fooling around. When I started bowling, he said, Arey Bhajji, tumhara competitor agaya! (Hey Bhajji, here comes your competitor!). With the retirement, Gowtham isnt saying goodbye, hes simply turning a page, toward family, mentorship and a quieter yet deeper connection with the game, with his future plan being to keep contributing to the game. And in that lies the grace of his next innings.
Three electrocuted in Gaya village
A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Khaira village as three young lives were tragically cut short due to an electrocution accident involving an 11KV overhead wire. The young men, two cousins and a friend, were attempting to navigate a low-tension line that intersected with the high-voltage wire, unaware of the deadly risks involved.
KOLKATA: Three persons, including a ruling Trinamool Congress leader and his son, were sentenced to life imprisonment after they were found guilty in the gang rape and death of a schoolgirl in Hanshkhali of Nadia district in West Bengal. The incident took place in April 2022, prompting Opposition parties like the BJP, CPI-M and Congress to intensify protests against the ruling party in the State, demanding Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees resignation. The nine convicted in the case are Trinamool leader Samarendra Gayali, his son Brajagopal aka Sohail and seven others Prabhakar Samaddar, Ranjit Mullick, Surajit Roy, Akash Baroi, Dipta Gayali, Pijush Kanti Bhakta, and Anshuman Bagchi. The court, today, pronounced the sentence giving Sohail, Prabhakar and Ranjit imprisonment till death, while Samarendra, Dipta and another were sentenced for five years jail each. One of the nine convicted is a minor boy who has been granted conditional bail for now. The court will makdecide him after a year. However, the family members of the victim are not happy with the verdict, as they expected that the court would sentence the convicts to death. We are not happy with the judgment because we had demanded their death sentences. I had so many expectations and dreams for my daughter, but the bastards ruined all, the victims mother said. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigated the case following a Calcutta High Court order. They were pronounced guilty under various sections of the BNSS related to gang rape, criminal conspiracy, criminal intimidation, destruction and suppression of evidence, along with Section 6 of the POCSO Act. According to the prosecution, on April 4, 2022, the minor girl attended a birthday party organised for Brajagopal, where she was gang-raped. She returned home bleeding profusely and died the next day. The victims parents said that they were prevented by the convicts from taking her to a hospital. Her body was forcibly taken away and cremated locally without a post-mortem. She did not even get a death certificate.
64-year-old man held for killing wife, trying to pass itoff as road accident in Bengaluru
BENGALURU: A 64-year-old man was arrested on Monday morning for allegedly killing his wife, a government school teacher, on Saturday afternoon and trying to pass it as a road accident. The victim has been identified as Gayathri, 55, a resident of Mittiganahalli. She was a physical education teacher. Her husband Ananth is a retired private firm employee. The victims daughter is a college student. According to police, the couple fought over family matters frequently. Ananth hatched a plot to kill Gayathri afewdaysago. He took her to Bagalur on Saturday on the pretext of cleaning his site there. He allegedly killed her by smashing her head with a stone. He then convinced passersby that his two-wheeler was hit by a motorcycle. His wife, who was riding pillion, fell off the two-wheeler and the motorcycle ran over her. Ananth later called 108 ambulance services and shifted Gayathri to the government hospital in Yelahanka. The doctors theredeclared that Gayathri was brought dead to the hospital. As it was a medico-legal case, the doctors informed the jurisdictional traffic police. The traffic police, who went to the mortuary, suspected it to be a murder. Theyalerted Bagaluru police, who took the accused into custody. During interrogation, the accused claimed to have killed his wife as he was unable to bear her harassment. Accusing his wife of threatening to kill him by poisoning, Ananth stated that he tried to divorce her, but couldnt, a police officer said.
Brief sunshine offers relief in city as cold day conditions continue in state
Patna and surrounding areas saw a brief respite from fog on Monday as the sun appeared after four days. Despite weak sunlight, chilly winds persisted, with Gaya experiencing severe cold day conditions. Dense fog is expected to continue across the state, impacting visibility and temperatures, though daytime warmth may slightly increase before nighttime lows drop further.
Global Maitri Festival 2025: Celebration of Sanskriti, Maitri Bhaav and Seva Bhaav
The Global Maitri Festival, one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year with an audience over 12000 is happening on 27 December 2025 at Police Parade Ground, Mumbai. Organised by the MaitriBodh Parivaar , and supported by Ministry of Culture, Government of India, this 7th annual celebration of the festival brings forth the larger-than-life display of our rich Sanskriti and foundational values of Maitri Bhaav and Seva Bhaav. The Global Maitri Festival is an invitation to all wanting to witnessthe pride of our Bharatin motion. Global Maitri Festival 2025 to Celebrate Sanskriti, Maitri Bhaav, and Seva Bhaav Joining this years celebration are esteemed dignitaries including Shri. Arjun Meghwal, Union Minister of Law and Justice; Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of AYUSH, Health and Family Welfare; Shri Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra; and many more. The occasion will also be graced by veteran celebrities such as Jackie Shroff, Smita Jaykar, and Kajal Aggarwal. Global Maitri Festival is honored to have theMaitri Cultural Economy Summitas our Cultural Partner for the year. With their participation, we bring culture to the forefront on this grand stage through a one-of-a-kind cultural performance that highlights Indias unique cultural identity, celebrates oursanskriti, and contributes to the revival of our rich cultural heritage on a scale like never before Each year, the celebration reflects Bharats inclusive spirit and the timeless message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Guided by the physical presence of Maitreya Dadashreeji, Visionary of the Festival and Founder of MaitriBodh Parivaar, the event draws its depth and purpose from His leadership.The 2025 edition revolves around the theme Ek Bharat Hum Bharat, emphasising unity and shared identity at a time when collective consciousness is vital. This message reflects a renewed call for citizens to rise above differences and recognise their origin as one family.This year, the festival showcases four transformative initiatives driving lasting social reform.Maitri Adarsh Gram for rural development, Chinta Mukt Bharat 2032 a national initiative for mental and emotional well-being, Yuva Parivartan for youth development, and Vishwa Shanti Maha Yagnya in association with Akhil Vishwa Gayatri Parivaar for global peace and harmony. The highlight of the festival is the annual address by Maitreya Dadashreeji, offering profound guidance and inspiration to help individuals overcome mental health challenges and navigate the year ahead with clarity and strength. www.maitribodh.org/gmf , or you can call 8929 707 222 for more information.
Rajat Bedi met Koi Mil Gaya director Rakesh Roshan after 22 years, and he took the opportunity to thank him for casting him as a baddie in Hrithik Roshan's blockbuster.
Kangana Ranaut joined the bandwagon to hail Dhurandhar, calling it a 'masterpiece'. tagged Aditya Dhar as the ultimate 'Dhurandhar of this show'.
Dense fog and severe cold wave hit normal life in Bihar, red alert issued for 12 districts
PATNA: Normal life in Bihar has been largely hit by dense fog and severe cold wave conditions, prompting authorities concerned to change the timing of schools for children. Severe cold wave condition is expected to persist till December 22. Bihar deputy chief minister Samrat Chaudharys helicopter could not take off due to bad weather conditions and poor visibility. He was scheduled to attend official functions at Sugauli and Raxaul in East Champaran district. According to authoritative sources, a pair of flights of Air India from Patna to Delhi and vice versa was cancelled, while 16 pairs of flights got delayed due to bad weather conditions and poor visibility in Patna. Similarly, more than 12 trains were running behind schedule. Officials said that the trains, including Vibhuti Express, Shramjivi Express, Sampoorna Kranti Express, Barauni-Danapur Memu, Vaishali-Kodarma Fast Memu, Danapur-Jhajha Fast Passenger and Bhagalpur Garib Rath Express, were running from three hours to 30 hours behind schedule. According to notifications issued by the authorities, classes in schools will run from 9 am and 4.30 pm till December 27. The order will apply to all government and private schools across the State. However, pre-board and board examinations have been exempted from the new order. The school authorities have been asked to adhere to the order strictly, failing which action would be initiated against them as per the rule. Humidity levels have crossed 90 per cent, significantly narrowing the gap between maximum and minimum temperatures. A red alert has been issued for 12 districts of north Bihar, warning of extremely dense fog and severe cold wave conditions. In addition, a yellow alert has been issued for 24 other districts, including Patna, cautioning residents about cold weather conditions. The State witnessed a sharp drop in both day and night temperatures, throwing normal life out of gear. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cold spell is expected to persist until December 22, with the possibility of a further decline in temperatures. The districts largely hit include West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Vaishali, Samastipur, Siwan and Gopalganj. In these districts, extremely dense fog is likely to disrupt road traffic both during the day and night hours. Travelling by road will be risky under such conditions, said a police officer assigned to regular traffic in Muzaffarpur in north Bihar. He said an advisory has been issued for vehicle drivers. A yellow alert has been issued for 24 districts, including Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur and Purnea. In Araria, two youths were killed in a head-on collision between a speeding car and a motorbike. The third person injured in the accident has been admitted to a local hospital.
Rice millers in Kangayam demand government warehouse
Even before the crack of dawn, Chennaiites wake up to the musical notes of birds, the winter wind so chilly that it demands a woolen armour to brave the streets that stir to life as the day progresses. Men, women, and children gather to sweep their respective thresholds and sprinkle water as a ritual and then create pattern of curves, grids, dots, lines, and loops. This art form kolam holds a special significance during the Tamil month of Margazhi , which falls in December. Traditionally, kolam is believed to symbolise prosperity, good luck, and welcome goddess Lakshmi into homes. It is also said that kolam wards off evil energies and spirits. Kolams are practised differently in different parts of the country: Pookalam in Kerala, Muggulu in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Alpana in West Bengal, Rangoli in Karnataka, and Sathiya in Gujarat. Mention of this practice in Tamil lit can be traced back to Sangam literature, dating from the third century BCE to third century CE. In this literature, the description of drawing kolam s exactly matches the visuals seen on the streets of Chennai today. This shows how age-old the practice of kolam is, shares historian Meenakshi Devaraj. The 15th verse of the second chapter, 518th verse overall, in revered poet and saint Andals Nachiyar Thirumozhi reads, Vellai nunmanal kondu sittril visiththirapada , which roughly translates to: using fine white sand, we carefully draw beautiful kolams on the streets. There are also literary sources that show men indulging in this exercise. A 12th century poem mentions a ghost, presumably male, making decorative patterns from pearl dust. According to Meenakshi, The practice of drawing kolam has evolved over centuries. This shows the dynamic nature of this custom. The other characteristics include constantly changing in terms of its designs and colours. Adding to the list, Meenakshi notes, It is therapeutic. It brought some healing in me. Sacred patterns on streets This ever-evolving art form finds its expression during Margazhi as this Tamil month brings with it positivity and happiness. Vardhani KL, a software analyst (@kolamveri on Instagram), shares, I always look forward to Margazhi . It is one of my favourite months because it is winter. When you wake up, you see how beautiful the climate is. It is also the season of bhajans and keerthans . And when you do the kolam , you hear them. She describes kolams as a habit of decorating our homes. It is an extension to the decoration we do inside. Vardhani urges that everyone should come forward and take up this habit and it shouldnt be restricted to a particular religion or region. Meenakshi echoes the same thoughts. Schools should recognise this practice and encourage kids to take it up. Kolam shouldnt be shrunk to a particular religion, and to women, she says. Usually there is a gender restriction that it should be done only by ladies in the family but the case is not like that for us because its just an art form. The main point here is that tradition should not be lost, says Jayashankar Sreenivasan (@mrsandmrkolam on Instagram). Jayashankar learnt this skill from his chithi (aunt) and his mother. He shares, Every morning, they put kolam on the threshold. Sitting there and watching them raised an interest in me. I thought this form should not be restricted only to the female community. Why should girls have all the fun? His family was supportive and encouraged him in building this talent and excelling. With respect to my wife, she has the leverage of doing it. Nobody is going to stop her, he remarked. His wife keeps the dots and he continues the kolam , he says, adding, We discuss what kind of designs to draw the next day. It brought a uniqueness in our collaborative creativity. Visual grammar In any pattern, keeping a symmetric dot is pivotal. If the dots are haywire, your design goes haywire, points out Jayashankar. The dots are then followed by designs and patterns. I bring geometry into my designs. Celtic designs are popular in foreign countries especially in Europe and the UK. Its looked upon as a symbol of oneness. Our temple carvings have celtic designs. We brought such kinds into our kolam designs, he shares. Once the intricate designs are outlined, it is then filled with colours, not every but a select few, each carrying a symbolic meaning. The popular kaavi (red) colour represents auspiciousness. When added with white, it brings in the value of Shiva and Shakti. The white is Shiva and the red is the Shakti, explains Jayashankar. Additionally, manjal (yellow) adds a devotional aspect to the kolam . To please the eyes, green and blue colours are included. Green is pasumai . Blue is water, neer . It is also associated with agayam, he says. Nowadays using grey and black has become a common practice. The 2025 Margazhi This Margazhi season, while Meenakshi will follow her tradition of showing the verses of Thiruppavai in her kolams , Varadhini is excited about her chikku kolams , Jayashankar and his wife are are working on a series of new designs, something on aspects of Andal Pasurams . We want to depict it in the chikku kolam and padi kolam . Ensuring we keep it traditional rather than trying something with the latest trend, he concludes.
Dense fog envelops state; no relief in sight
Bihar finds itself enveloped in a thick blanket of fog, with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a cautionary alert. In western Bihar, temperatures have dipped significantly, Gaya experiencing the coldest lows. The local government has initiated warmth measures, setting up bonfires and emergency shelters to aid those affected by the harsh winter chill.
ABVPs state convention to begin in Gaya from Dec 28
Gaya is set to host the 67th state convention of ABVP from December 28, with Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar performing the 'bhoomi pujan'. Over 1,200 volunteers will attend the event, the first in 27 years, focusing on youth and societal issues.
Jasprit Bumrah was involved in a viral incident with a fan at an airport after the fan ignored his request to stop recording. Bumrah snatched and threw the phone. Despite the controversy, he's been performing well in India's T20I series against South Africa, with India leading 2-1 in the series.
Theatre brings together diverse social experiences, philosophies and linguistic traditions
Four-day multilingual theatre festival organised by Rangayana concludes in Kalaburagi
K. Gayatri brought alive her guru Suguna Purushothamans diverse oeuvre in her tribute concert
Gayatris performance showcased the lyrical depth and rhythmic innovations in the legendary musicians Carnatic compositions.
Thane textile businessman duped of Rs 35 lakh; 4 booked
Thane: Police have registered a case against four Mumbai-based traders for allegedly cheating a textile businessman from Maharashtras Thane district of Rs 35 lakh, officials said on Tuesday. The accused purchased consignments of grey (unprocessed) cloth from the 42-year-old victim, a resident of Gayatri Nagar in Bhiwandi town, between June and November this year. However, 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 | How great composers shaped the Carnatic music repertoire | K. Gayatri
In this Margazhi season, vocalist Dr. K. Gayatri begins a special series celebrating four iconic South Indian composers across four languages. In this episode, she explores the life and musical brilliance of Kavi Kunjara Bharathi, the 19thcentury Tamil poetcomposer behind masterpieces like Alagar Kuravanji and the soulful padam Even Yaro Ariyen.
Shamanur: Senior-most MLA, Lingayat leader, industrialist and more
Senior-most incumbent MLA in India and a Lingayat strongman of the Congress, 94-year-old Shamanur Shivashankarappa, who passed away on Sunday, will be remembered not just for the empire he built as an industrialist and educationist, but also for his politics and the work he did as president of the All India Veerashaiva Lingayat Mahasabha
Congress leader Shamanuru Shivashankarappa passes away at 95; tributes pour in
Shamanuru Shivashankarappa, a seasoned politician and revered six-time MLA, has sadly passed away at the age of 95 after battling age-related ailments. His commitment to the upliftment of education and community service marked his illustrious career. His departure is a significant loss for Karnataka's political landscape and the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community, prompting leaders from all sides to express their condolences.
Veteran Congress leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa passes away at 94
The Karnataka Congress leader was the National president of the Akhila Bharata Veerashaiva Mahasabha and a prominent face of the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community
Flautist C.A. Sreedhara is known for blending the gayaki and tantrakari styles of playing
The multifaceted scholar will receive the Musicologist Award for 2025 from The Music Academy, Chennai.
There is an urgent need for Veerashaiva-Lingayat unity, says Minister Eshwar Khandre
On Thursday, Hema Malini held a prayer meet in Delhi, and while remembering her late husband, she revealed his unfulfilled wish.
Bihar cabinet clears three new departments to drive youth jobs, higher education push
RANCHI: The newly formed Bihar cabinet on Tuesday approved the creation of three new departments to ensure better and effective implementation of its schemes and policies, aimed at providing jobs and employment opportunities to one crore youth over the next five years. For this purpose, three new departments, youth, employment and skill development, higher education, and civil aviation. have been created. These are in addition to the existing 45 government departments, cabinet secretariat departments additional chief secretary (ACS) Arvind Kumar Chaudhary told the media in a post-cabinet briefing. A total of 19 decisions were taken at the meeting chaired by chief minister Nitish Kumar. Notably, CM Nitish Kumar had on December 5 announced the creation of three new departments as part of his governments target to generate one crore jobs and employment opportunities in the next five years. Taking to X, CM Nitish said, We set a target to provide jobs and employment to one crore youth in the next five years (202530). For this, it is necessary that maximum youth of the state be given training for skill development and quality higher and technical education. Youth, Employment and Skill Development has been created for the all-round development of youth by equipping them with skills to improve employability. The higher education department will ensure quality education in the state, while the civil aviation department will focus on the expanding aviation sector and enhancing air travel services, the ACS said. The cabinet also rechristened the animal and fisheries resources department as the dairy, fisheries and animal resources department. Similarly, the labour resources department will now be known as the labour resources and migrant workers welfare department. The art, culture and youth department has been renamed art and culture department, Chaudhary added. DA hiked for employees, pensioners under 5th & 6th pay The cabinet approved a five per cent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for employees, pensioners, and family pensioners drawing salary or pension under the 6th Pay Commission. The DA has been increased from 252% to 257%, effective July 1, 2025. Similarly, DA for those under the 5th Pay Commission has been increased by eight per cent, from 466% to 474%, also effective July 1, 2025. New Directorate of MSME formed In another decision, the cabinet approved the industries departments proposal to rename the Directorate of Technical Development as the Directorate of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSME) to strengthen the sector and make it globally competitive, the ACS said. Directorate of Mines & Geology reconstituted The cabinet also reconstituted the Directorate of Mines and Geology into two separate directorates the Directorate of Mines and the Directorate of Investigation. The Directorate of Mines has been further divided into two deputy directorates: mines and security. The restructuring is expected to speed up investigation processes, Chaudhary said, adding that certain posts have been created for the purpose. Gaya Ji & Munger declared Civil Defence Districts The disaster management departments proposal to declare Gaya Ji and Munger as Civil Defence Districts was approved. Fourteen posts have been created to support the move, which will strengthen strategic and internal security and improve response to natural and man-made disasters. The cabinet also approved the appointment of Mohammad Imdad Raza on compassionate grounds. Raza is the son of BSF Sub-Inspector late Mohammad Imtiyaz, who was martyred during Operation Sindoor. Other decisions The cabinet sanctioned Rs 400 crore for payment of electricity dues of urban local bodies to the two power distribution companies North Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd -- for FY 202526. It approved the Bihar Dastavej Lekhak Anugyapti (Sanshodhan) Niyamawali 2025 (Bihar Deed Writers Licence Amendment Rules 2025), under which leprosy-affected persons will be eligible to obtain licences as deed writers. The move aims to support their social and financial empowerment. The finance departments proposal to sign an MoU with the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSEIL) to empower youth and run the Student Skilling Programme was cleared. An MoU with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Ltd (NIIFL) was also approved for assistance in various state projects. The cabinet approved a corpus fund of Rs 15 crore for the Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve Foundation/Trust. The foundation will utilise the amount for conservation and management activities. It also approved the constitution of the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park Management and Development Society, which will oversee the parks upkeep. Additionally, the cabinet approved the Bihar Electronic Order (Issuance, Execution and Disposal) Rules 2025 and the Bihar E-Sakshya Prabandhan Niyamawali 2025 (Bihar E-Evidence Management Rules 2025). The e-summon rules will streamline digital processes, while the E-Sakshya rules cover electronic evidence, video conferencing, digital signatures, and the management of witness testimony under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
ASI Finds Pillar Inscription Of 13th Century At Gandamcharla Village In Prakasam District
The inscription is written in Telugu language and belonged to the 13th century. It gives the eulogy of the chief and records the gift of the village Maraduru and also some lands for conducting the service to the god Sringadevara by Gangaya Sahini.
Bihar government to set up 100 fast-track courts to dispose of pending cases
PATNA: Bihar deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, who is also holding the portfolio of home department, on Sunday announced that 100 fast track courts (FTCs) would be established in Bihar for speedy disposal of pending cases in the courts. The fast track courts aim to reduce the burden on the judiciary and provide due attention and time to cases of a sensitive nature. Chaudhary said that these fast-track courts would lessen the burden on courts considerably, considering that more than 18 lakh cases were pending in various courts of the state. He informed eight fast-track courts have been proposed in Patna, while four courts each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur. Home Minister said that three fast-track courts each would be set up in Nalanda (Biharsharif), Rohtas (Sasaram), Saran (Chapra), Begusarai, Vaishali (Hajipur), East Champaran (Motihari), Samastipur, and Madhubani. Similarly, two fast-track courts each will operate in West Champaran (Bettiah), Saharsa, Purnea, Munger, Nawada, Jehanabad, Arwal, Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabua), Buxar, Bhojpur (Ara), Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, Banka, Jamui, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Khagaria. In addition, it is proposed to establish one fast-track court each in the Naugachhiaand Bagaha sub-divisional courts. Chaudhary said, cases jointly identified by the district magistrates and superintendents of Police will be disposed of on a priority basis. A large-scale recruitment of personnel will also be undertaken for the establishment of a total of 100 fast-track courts across 38 districts and sub-divisions of the state. A total of 900 positions are proposed for each court, comprising eight types of posts -- bench clerk, office clerk, stenographer, deposition writer, data entry operator, driver, process server, and peon or orderly. As many as 79 courts will be specially set up for the speedy disposal of cases pending under the Arms Act. Bihar government was of the opinion that quick resolution of serious cases like those under the Arms Act would improve law and order in the state, Chaudhary added.
Bihar to establish 100 Fast Track Courts for quicker disposal of pending criminal cases
Mr. Choudhary also informed that eight fast track courts are proposed in Patna, while four each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur.
Bihar plans CISF-style force to protect industrialists as state launches major investment push
PATNA: The Bihar government is considering the creation of a specialised police unit on the lines of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to boost investor confidence and attract large-scale investments to the state. Industries Minister Dilip Kumar Jaiswal said on Sunday that a proposal to establish the Bihar Industrial Security Force (BISF) would soon be sent to the state government. The new force would be tasked with providing dedicated security to major industrialists and investors. The government will ensure complete security and safety for investors so that they can set up industrial units without any fear. We are ready to provide land for industries. The government will take care of all investors and industrialists, Jaiswal told reporters. The announcement comes a day after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar chaired a high-level review meeting with top administrative officials to discuss the states industrial development plans. This was the first such meeting since the new government took office in November. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, Industries Minister Jaiswal, senior bureaucrats and departmental heads attended the meeting. Nitish later shared details of the discussions on X, noting that the industries department will organise investors meets across major commercial centres in India and abroad to draw large industries to Bihar. The goal, he said, is to place Bihar among the countrys top five investment-friendly states in the coming years. Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit presented a five-year roadmap aimed at positioning Bihar among the top-performing states, with an investment target of Rs 50 lakh crore over the next five years. The meeting reviewed a comprehensive industrial development blueprint, including plans for new manufacturing clusters, sector-specific parks and expanded skill training. Key decisions included promoting Ease of Doing Business reforms, establishing five mega food parks, developing 10 industrial parks and creating 100 MSME parks over the next five years. Work is being fast-tracked on the Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) at Dobhi in Gaya, spread over 1,700 acres. Additionally, 31 new industrial parks covering 14,036 acres across 29 districts are planned, 10 of which will be sector-specific, including parks dedicated to textiles and pharmaceuticals. The state has allocated Rs 26,000 crore for the next phase of industrial development. Emphasising the importance of rapid industrialisation, Nitish said large investments were essential to accelerating economic growth and generating employment in the state.
Panchamasalis to protest silently before Suvarna Soudha on Dec. 10
In a bid to raise their demand for 2A reservation again, members of Lingayat Panchamasali community will stage a silent protest during the winter session in Belagavi on December 10.
Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya: Cong Takes Dig At Modi Govt Over New US National Security Strategy
New Delhi, Dec 6: In a swipe at the Modi government over the new US National Security Strategy, the Congress on Saturday said it marks a notable shift in the American approach to Pakistan, and avoids the explicit criticism that defined the 2017 Donald Trump-era strategy document, which openly accused Islamabad of supporting militants targeting US partners. The opposition party also pointed out that the document reiterates US President Donald Trumps claim that he settled the raging conflict between India [] The post Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya: Cong Takes Dig At Modi Govt Over New US National Security Strategy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Kya se kya ho gaya...': Congress takes dig at Modi as US softens line on Pakistan
The Congress party has criticised the Modi government regarding the new US National Security Strategy. They note a change in America's stance on Pakistan, with less direct criticism compared to the 2017 document. The strategy also reiterates US President Donald Trump's assertion of resolving the India-Pakistan conflict. This shift has drawn sharp remarks from the opposition.
Title defence in Lucknow boosts GayatriTreesa's push back to world top 10
The two-time All England semifinalists opened 2025 in promising fashion, reaching the All England quarterfinals and then the Swiss Open semifinals
When RaGa resonated at the Royal Albert Hall
Ranjani and Gayatri take Carnatic music to the iconic stage for the Darbar Festival.
Video: Chairs, Kicks, Punches Fly After 'Rasgulla Shortage' At Bihar Wedding
A wedding in Bihar's Bodh Gaya descended into a chaotic battlezone between the bride and the groom's families over shortage of rasgulla.
From teen in RSS shakha to Speaker's Chair: Bihar BJP leader Prem Kumar's long journey
PATNA: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Prem Kumar was elected unanimously as Bihar Assembly Speaker on Tuesday, a day after he filed his nomination papers for the post. Pro-tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav announced Kumars election as the 18th Speaker of the Bihar Assembly. Soon after the formal announcement, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and leader of Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav escorted 70-year-old Prem Kumar to the Speakers chair amid clapping from both treasury and opposition benches in the House. This is the first time since 2015 that the Speaker has been elected unopposed. Prem Kumar, who won for a record ninth time from Gaya Town assembly constituency, later said that he would give equal treatment to the ruling dispensation and the Opposition in the House. For the chair, both Treasury and Opposition benches are equal. There will be no disparity at all, he added. He said that the House should be a place for meaningful discussions that contribute to Bihars development. Later chief minister Nitish Kumar and LoP Tejashwi Yadav congratulated Prem Kumar for being elected as new Speaker. Nitish said, I request all the members to cooperate with him in the smooth conduct of the House. Before his election as Speaker, Kumar had served in various capacities, including as minister and LoP since 1990. Prem Kumars political journey started from Dulhinganj locality of Gaya town where he used to attend RSS sponsored shakhas. Hailing from the Dhanuk caste, which is part of the OBC, Prem Kumar later became a member of the Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). His schoolmate Prabhat Kumar Sinha recalled that Prem Kumar was sent to jail during the 1974 movement. After spending eight months in Gaya central jail, he was released on bail. However, he continued his fight against the Emergency imposed by the Congress in 1977. After the Emergency, he joined the BJP and was appointed as district general secretary of Gaya. He worked for strengthening the party at block and panchayat levels, which drew senior leaders attention, and he was fielded as the BJP candidate from Gaya in the 1990 assembly polls. He emerged victorious in the elections and since then he has never lost from the seat. It is hard to believe that a teen-aged boy who used to attend RSS sponsored shakhas in the premises of Mahavir High School and Azad Park is now Speaker of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha. It is a journey full of dedication, perseverance and organisational skill, said Rakesh Kumar, a resident of Gaya.
BJP leader Prem Kumar unanimously elected Speaker of Bihar assembly
PATNA: Veteran BJP leader Prem Kumar was on Tuesday unanimously elected as the Speaker of the Bihar assembly. Pro-tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav informed the House that Kumar was the only candidate whose name figured for the post. Thereafter, he was declared unanimously elected following a voice vote. As per custom, Kumar, who recently won the Gaya Town seat for a record eighth term, was escorted to the Chair by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav.
Sri Lankas opposition walks out of Parliament over floods disaster
COLOMBO, Dec 1: Sri Lankas main opposition party, the SJB, walked out of Parliament here on Monday to protest the Governments refusal to extend the session to discuss the aftermath of the Cyclone Ditwah disaster that left over 300 dead. Kabir Hashim, from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), said they wanted to place on record the lack of preparedness of the Anura Kumara Dissanayake-led government despite pre warnings of severe weather hitting the island. The National Peoples Power (NPP) [] The post Sri Lankas opposition walks out of Parliament over floods disaster appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bihar legislature's winter session likely to be stormy, newly elected MLAs to take oath on Dec 1
PATNA: The Winter Session of the Bihar legislature, beginning from Monday, is likely to be stormy as the Opposition is expected to raise issues related to promises made to people by the National Democratic Alliance during the recently concluded assembly elections. Issues like one crore jobs, financial aids of Rs 2 lakh each to women associated with Jeevika and opening of new sugar factories and closed units will dominate the five-day session of the state legislature being held after the formation of a new government. The issue of setting up industrial units will also be raised. The winter session assumed significance as the ruling NDA won 202 seats in the election, while the Oppositions seat tally reduced to 35. Of the 35, 25 are from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) alone. It does not matter how many members are in the Opposition bench. The opposition will play its role as usual, said RJD MLA Bhai Virendra. The five-day winter session of state legislature will begin on Monday. On the first day, Pro-Tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav will administer oath to all 243 members, followed by the election for the Speaker on December 2. The state assembly will adopt a largely paperless system, with newly installed tablets allowing members to submit questions and motions digitally. Power of Six! How the NDA succeeded in hitting the MGB out of the park in Bihar polls BJP leader Prem Kumar is likely to file a nomination for the post of Speaker on the first day itself. If more than one candidate files nominations, the election for the Speaker will be held on December 2. If Prem Kumar, an eight-time MLA from Gaya town, is elected uncontested, then the BJP will be able to retain the Speakers post. In the previous assembly, Nand Kishore Yadav of the BJP served as Speaker in the House. Governor Arif Mohammad Khan will address a joint session of the state legislature on December 3. On December 4, MLAs and MLCs will debate on Governors address, and the government will reply. On December 5, both Houses will present the second supplementary bill and the Appropriation bill. After that, the winter session will come to an end. On Saturday, RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav was elected as the leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, at a meeting of the Opposition legislature party held at the 1 Polo Road residence of the RJD leader. Congress MLAs were not present at the legislature party meeting held for the first time after the elections. Meanwhile, first-time MLAs are enthusiastic about their oath-taking ceremony and formally becoming members of the Lower House. We are more enthusiastic about oath oath-taking ceremony. We will enter Bihar Vidhan Sabha as its member for the first time, said Anand Mishra, a first-time BJP MLA from Buxar.
Rangayana to conduct weekend theatre festival from Nov. 30
Srikanth to take on Gunawan in the final
Both players battle past their opponents to make it to the summit clash; Unnati and Tanvi bow out; facile victory for Treesa-Gayatri duo
ED Searches 15 Locations in NMC Bribery Case
The entities from Telugu states include Gayatri College in Visakhapatnam, related to Dr Hari Prasad and Ankam Rambabu of Hyderabad
In change of tack, Manjhi calls Bihar's liquor ban 'great', but slams implementation process
ARRAH: In a change of tack, Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi on Thursday lavished praise on the prohibition law that has been in place in Bihar for nearly a decade, but pointed out that implementation has left much to be desired. The former chief minister was responding to queries from journalists in Arrah, the headquarters of Bhojpur district, about the ban on sale and consumption of liquor imposed by the Nitish Kumar government in April 2016. Prohibition is great. We cannot conceive of a better law. I am myself a living example of the benefits of shunning liquor. My father used to deal in intoxicants made out of the mahua fruit. He gave up the business at my insistence, which helped me complete my education and see where I have reached today, said Majhi, the founder of Hindustani Awam Morcha (S). But, I have always maintained that implementation has not been up to the mark. There is a nexus between bureaucrats and bootleggers, which is giving 'sharab bandi' a bad name. That must be addressed, said the Gaya MP. Manjhi, whose son Santosh Kumar Suman is a minister in the state government, had earlier been critical of the complete ban on alcohol in the state. Hailing from the Mahadalit community of rat-catchers (Musahar), he had been of the view that the stringent law in Bihar was affecting the poor, who should be allowed to enjoy their drink in reasonable limits. He had also been alleging that, despite the ban, well-heeled people in the state were getting the liquor of their choice delivered to their homes.
Wherever there is tragedy, Rakhi Sawant will jump on to it to grab media attention. Rakhi made a snarky comment on Dharmendra's demise, and it has left netizens irked.
Pocso case: Court acquits Lingayat mutt head
A Chitradurga court acquitted Murugha Mutt head Shivamurthy Muruga Sharanaru and two others in a sexual assault case involving two minor girls. This acquittal pertains to one of two POCSO cases registered against the seer and others. The investigation into a second case remains stayed by the high court.
Taking to his X handle, 'Master Blaster' Sachin Tendulkar paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actor and 'He-Man' of Bollywood, Dharmendra.
JD(U) leader Narendra Yadav appointed Pro-tem speaker of Bihar Assembly
BJP leader, Prem Kumar, who won from Gaya town for the ninth time, may be elected as Speaker
Hundreds take part in presentation of saare to Krishna river
Around 400 women volunteers carry saris from Gandhi Bomma Centre in the town to the riverbank at Nagayalanka
Celebrating a Decade of Kuchipudi Excellence and Reviving Indian Art Forms in Modern Living
ASBL, a leading name in creating future-forward living spaces, has partnered with NrityaPriya Dance Academy as the Cultural Partner for its 10th Anniversary Celebration at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, King Koti. The milestone event, themed around Lord Sri Krishna, brought together over 500 students, alumni, and art enthusiasts to commemorate a decade of excellence in the classical Kuchipudi dance form. ASBL strengthens its cultural initiative by partnering with NrityaPriya Dance Academy The evening featured soulful performances such as Ambaparaku, Ganesha Pancharatnam, Jayadeva Ashtapadi, and Nauka Charitam capturing the divine grace and storytelling essence that define Indias classical traditions. The event also included felicitations for esteemed guests, including cultural icons like Dr. Maddali Usha Gayatri (Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee) and ASBLs Founder and CEO, Ajitesh Korupolu, who attended as Chief Guest. Speaking at the event, Ajitesh Korupolu said, Culture is the soul of a community. As we build modern living spaces, we believe its equally important to build emotional and cultural connections within them. Our partnership with NrityaPriya is an expression of this belief to celebrate the richness of Indian heritage and ensure that art, tradition, and togetherness remain part of contemporary life . ASBL Landmark and upcoming projects, the brand aims to create spaces where residents dont just live, they belong. For ASBL, art and architecture share the same purpose: to inspire, connect, and create meaning. By supporting institutions like NrityaPriya, ASBL continues to nurture Indias cultural heritage while empowering communities to rediscover the joy of shared experiences. This partnership marks another step in ASBLs vision to bridge heritage and modernity reminding us that true progress is built not just with structures, but with stories, traditions, and a shared sense of identity.
Bihars comeback king: Nitish Kumar to swear in for 10th term, NDA gears up for fresh power play
JD(U) supremo Nitish Kumar is set to take oath as Bihars chief minister for a record 10th time today, days after the NDA secured a decisive victory in the assembly elections. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled at Patnas historic Gandhi Maidan, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several top NDA leaders are expected to attend. In addition to the main stage, several pandals have been erected to accommodate VIPs, while elaborate security arrangements have been put in place, with over three lakh people anticipated to be present, according to a senior BJP leader. Kumar submitted his resignation as the outgoing chief minister to Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Wednesday. He was accompanied by Union Minister Chirag Paswan, RLM chief Upendra Kushwaha, and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. State BJP chief Dilip Jaiswal told reporters that the governor accepted the resignation and asked Kumar to continue as caretaker CM until the new government was formed. Ahead of the ceremony, Nitish Kumar on Thursday took to X to share his thoughts, I, Nitish Kumar, swear by God This sentence is a symbol of the unwavering faith and self-confidence of crores of Biharis. Today, from the historic Gandhi Maidan, this voice will echo once again, and Bihar will embark on a new journey of development, he wrote. He extended his congratulations and best wishes to all Biharis on the occasion, calling it a historic moment for the state. Earlier, JD(U) had shared a post stating, History is about to be made in Bihar. Honorable Nitish Kumar ji will take the oath for the post of Chief Minister, a symbol of Bihar's development and trust. Bihar will write another new chapter of development; this moment will be a moment of pride for all Biharis. Let us all witness this historic moment. Following meetings of newly elected MLAs, Kumar was elected leader of the NDA legislature party. Senior BJP leader Samrat Choudhary was chosen as the partys legislature leader, with Vijay Kumar Sinha appointed deputy leader. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, appointed as central observer by the BJP for the legislature party election in Bihar, was present at the meeting, alongside Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and former Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, who were co-observers for the process. Lobbying among NDA allies to finalise cabinet berths continued throughout the day. Sources said the new Bihar Cabinet is expected to include 16 ministers from the BJP and 14 from JD(U), including CM Nitish Kumar. Consensus has reportedly been reached among NDA partners to appoint BJPs Prem Kumar as Assembly Speaker, with the Deputy Speakers post likely going to JD(U). Sources indicate that five to six new faces are expected in the cabinet from the main NDA constituents BJP and JD(U). Umesh Singh Kushwaha, JD(U) state chief and Mahnar MLA, is likely to be inducted. While JD(U) is expected to retain most of its current ministers, the BJP may bring in a few new faces. Smaller allies LJP(RV) led by Union Minister Chirag Paswan, HAM-S led by Jitan Ram Manjhi, and RLM led by Upendra Kushwaha will also get representation. The LJP(RV) is expected to get three berths, HAM-S and RLM one berth each. In total, 16 BJP ministers, 14 JD(U) ministers, and CM Nitish Kumar will take oath on November 20. JD(U) leaders likely to be part of the cabinet include Bijendra Prasad Yadav, Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Shrowan Kumar, Sunil Kumar, Lesi Singh, Sheila Mandal, Madan Sahni, Ratnesh Sada, Mohammad Zama Khan, Jayant Raj, Umesh Singh Kushwaha, Ashok Chowdhary, Rahul Kumar Singh, Sudhanshu Shekhar, Kaladhar Prasad Mandal, and Panna Lal Singh Patel. Outgoing BJP ministers expected to continue include Samrat Choudhary, Prem Kumar, Mangal Pandey, Vijay Kumar Sinha, Nitish Mishra, Renu Devi, Jibesh Kumar, Neeraj Kumar Singh, Janak Ram, Hari Sahni, Kedar Prasad Gupta, Surendra Mehta, Santosh Kumar Singh, Sunil Kumar, and Motil Lal Prasad. Potential new faces from BJP include former IPS officer Anand Mishra (elected from Buxar), Rana Randhir, Gayatri Devi, and Vijay Kumar Khemka. JD(U) leaders highlighted that, given the partys sharp rise in MLA count since 2020, more cabinet berths were expected this term. In the outgoing government, BJP had 15 ministers, JD(U) 12 including CM Nitish Kumar, HAM-S had one, and one Independent minister. The NDA stormed back to power in Bihar, winning 202 seats in the 243-member assembly. BJP secured 89 seats, JD(U) 85, LJP(RV) 19, HAM 5, and RLM 4. Meanwhile, Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor described his decision not to contest the Bihar polls as a mistake, noting that his party received less than 4% of votes. In an interview with NDTV , he said, My decision not to contest polls can be considered a mistake. We have to do a lot to achieve a satisfactory result. I had never expected that our party would get less than 4% votes in the assembly polls. Kishor also asserted his commitment to future electoral efforts, stating, I will not back down without winning Bihar. I dont know how much time it will take.
Bihar: BJP may retain Speaker; JD(U) Home
NEW DELHI/PATNA : Amid hard bargaining among NDA allies over plum portfolios in the new Bihar ministry on Tuesday, the Speakers post is expected to stay with the BJP, while Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may retain Home despite the BJP pressing him to part with it. Sources said on the names of two prominent BJP leaders for the position of Speaker have already been considered, one of whom will be finalised at Wednesdays BJP legislature party meeting in Patna. While earlier it was speculated that Chirag Paswans party might get a deputy CMs post, it now appears that the BJP would pocket both deputy CM posts, with the party considering appointing new faces for that position. Initially, the JD(U) wanted the Speakers post. It however, yielded and then pitched for a deputy CMs post. Prem Kumar, an eight-time BJP MLA from Gaya Town, is the frontrunner for the post of Speaker. Potential candidates for the deputy CM include Mangal Pandey, who has the backing of the RSS and served as health minister in the outgoing government, and Sanjiv Chaurasia or Vijay Kumar Sinha. After a three-hour meeting JD(U) leaders had with home minister Amit Shah, a formula for ministerial berths was agreed in principle. Apart from the CM, the ministry will have 16 from the BJP, 14 from JD(U), three from Chirags LJP(RV) and one each from Jitan Ram Manjhis Hindustani Awam Morcha and Upendra Kushwahas Rashtriya Lok Morcha. Nitish visited Gandhi Maidan to inspect preparations of the oath-taking ceremony on November 20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and others are expected to attend. Nitish to resign today Nitish will resign as head of the outgoing govt on Wednesday to start the formal process of forming a new government, which will take its oath of office the following day.
Pay Up Rs.110 Cr BSNL Dues, All Government Deptartments Told
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International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony to begin at Bodh Gaya in December
NEW DELHI, Nov 15: The annual Tipitaka chanting ceremony and a commemorative walk symbolically retracing the footsteps of the Buddha from Jethian Valley to the sacred bamboo grove of Venuvana at Rajgir is set to take place in December in Bihar, according to officials. The spiritual gathering at Bodh Gaya will be organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, and the Light of Buddha Dharma Foundation International (LBDFI), US. The International Tipitaka Chanting [] The post International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony to begin at Bodh Gaya in December appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
VIP beacons are meant to signal the presence of public officials, and using them without approval violates government rules.
Bangalore Gayana Samaja to host 55th music conference from November 16-23
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Bihar Assembly Elections: NDA falls one short of a full ministerial sweep
As the ruling NDA steamrolled the Mahagathbandhan to retain power in Bihar, all but one of the 25 state ministers in the fray secured their seats. Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from the BJP, won Tarapur and Lakhisarai assembly seats. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar , who has been a member of the legislative council (MLC), did not contest the assembly elections. Altogether 15 ministers from the BJP had contested the polls and emerged victorious. Agriculture minister Prem Kumar, a BJP veteran, retained Gaya Town for an eighth consecutive term, a record equalled by his JD(U) cabinet colleague Bijendra Yadav (Supaul). Another minister Raju Kumar Singh, who had been elected from Sahebganj in 2020 on a ticket of Vikassheel Insan Party and later defected to the BJP, retained the seat. He contested the assembly segment this time on a saffron party's ticket. Sanjay Saraogi (Darbhanga) and Nitin Nabin (Bankipur) retained their seats for a fifth consecutive term. Other BJP ministers, who emerged victorious, were Renu Devi (Bettiah), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Neeraj Kumar Singh 'Bablu' (Chhatapur), Kedar Prasad Gupta (Kurhani), Jibesh Kumar (Jale), Krishnanandan Paswan (Harsidhi), Vijay Kumar Mandal and Krishna Kumar Mantoo (Amnour) and Sunil Kumar (Bihar Sharif). However, Sumit Kumar Singh, who had been elected in 2020 as an independent candidate and inducted into the state cabinet, failed to retain the Chakai assembly seat when he sought reelection on a JD(U) ticket. Singh lost by a margin of nearly 13,000 votes to RJD candidate Savitri Devi, whom he had defeated five years ago from Chakai in the Jamui district. Son of late Narendra Singh, a former state minister and a close aide of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Sumit had held the science, technology and technical education portfolio in the outgoing government. Victorious JD(U) ministers included Sheela Kumari (Phulparas), Leshi Singh (Dhamdaha), Ratnesh Sada (Sonbarsha), Madan Sahni (Bahadurpur), Vijay Kumar Choudhary (Sarairanjan), Jayant Raj (Amarpur), Shrawon Kumar (Nalanda) and Mohd. Zama Khan (Chainpur). The ruling NDA decimated the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar on Friday to retain power, reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's enduring appeal and dealing a body blow to the Congress and ally RJD. The massive scale of the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) can be gauged from the fact that its two main constituents--BJP and JD(U) -- clocked a nearly 85% strike rate in 101 seats each they had contested. The alliance secured a 200 paar win for a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party. Power of Six! How the NDA succeeded in hitting the MGB out of the park in Bihar polls
Bihar Results LIVE: These Bihar Ministers Became MLAs In 1990, Now Headed To 9th Straight Win
They became MLAs in 1990, when Tejashwi Yadav was three months old. Since then, they have won every election in Bihar from the same seats. BJP's Prem Kumar and JDU's Bijendra Prasad Yadav are now set for ninth straight win from Gaya Town and Supaul
Bihar: On the Margins of Indias Energy Transition
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Gaya Town Election Results 2025: Will BJP's Prem Kumar hold his fort again in Assembly Elections?
Gaya Town Election Results 2025: As per the latest trends, Bharatiya Janata Party's Prem Kumar is leading in the Gaya Town constituency and seemingly winning the seat again.
Gaya Town result 2025: In BJP's Prem Kumar vs Congress' Akhaury Onkar Nath, check who is winning
Gaya Town constituency sees a familiar contest as BJP's Prem Kumar, MLA since 1990, faces Congress's Akhaury Onkar Nath again. Kumar, a strong contender with support from Kanu and EBC communities, aims to defend his seat. Jan Suraaj's Dhirendra Agarwal enters the fray, potentially influencing the outcome.
What high voter turnout mean for the incumbent govt in Bihar
NEW DELHI: Bihar is a state where high voter turnout has consistently acted as a catalyst for changes in governance, and this years strong participation of voters may not necessarily be a source of comfort for the NDA, nor a greater shock for the Opposition, than what both sides, the ruling alliance and the Opposition, appear to be claiming based on exit poll predictions. With just a few hours remaining before the counting begins on Friday, the fate of candidates who contested across the state on tickets from various parties will be revealed. Despite exit polls heavily projecting results in favour of the NDA, Bihar appears to be caught in uncertainty. Es baar ka election fas gaya hai aisa lagta hai. Majorty NDA and Opposition ke bich bahut kam se hone ki sambhvana lag rahi (This time, the Bihar legislative assembly election seems to have got stuck in uncertainty. The margin of majority between NDA and the Opposition seems likely to be very narrow), remarked a senior leader of the NDA, preferring anonymity, who had closely monitored the election. In 2025, according to official data, Bihar recorded an overall voter turnout of more than 68%, sparking speculation both for and against the ruling NDA, which faced the Opposition under the Mahagathbandhan alliance. The state saw a 65.08% turnout in the first phase of polling held on November 6, which rose to 68.76% in the second phase. Overall, voter turnout increased by 9.62 percentage points compared with the 2020 Assembly elections, when it stood at 57.29%. As the record shows, Bihar has witnessed a change in power three times when voter turnout rose by about 5%. For instance, in the 1967 Assembly elections, the Congress government was ousted following an increase in voter turnout to 51.5% from 44.5% in 1962, an almost 7% rise. Similarly, in the 1980 Bihar Assembly elections, turnout rose to around 57.3% compared with 50.5% in 1977, again resulting in a change of government. More recently, in 1990, another shift in power occurred as turnout increased to 62%, a rise of about 5.7% from 56.3% in 1985. Consequently, the Janata Dal ousted Congress from power. Since then, voter turnout in Bihar has continued to rise more or less in every election. One of the key factors on which the NDA particularly relies for retaining power in Bihar is the participation of women voters. According to data, out of 3.51 crore registered women voters, 2.52 crore cast their votes in both phases, around 71.60% of those enrolled, while only 62.80% of the total registered and eligible male voters, numbering around 2.47 crore, exercised their franchise in both phases of the election.
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68.79% Turnout marks final phase of Bihar Assembly polls
PATNA: The enthusiasm of Bihars voters touched a new high on Tuesday as the state recorded its highest-ever voter turnout of 68.79% in the second and final phase of the Assembly elections. Voting took place for 122 constituencies across 20 districts, completing polling for all 243 seats. In the first phase, Bihar registered a turnout of 65.08%. The second phase, however, saw even greater participation, pushing the overall turnout across both phases to 66.9%nearly 10% higher than in the last Assembly polls. Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiyal said that figures from about 2,000 polling booths were still awaited, and the final percentage could rise further. Nearly 3.74 crore voters, including 1.95 crore men and 1.74 crore women, were eligible to vote at 45,399 polling stations, most of them in rural areas. More than half of the electorate (2.28 crore) was aged 30-60. Only 7.69 lakh were in the 18-19 age group. Women turned out in large numbers once again. Voters in the Muslim-dominated Seemanchal region also participated actively, while Maoist-affected areas in Rohtas, Gaya, and Jamui reported heavy turnout without incident. Significantly, no polling station was relocated in any of the Naxal-hit districts. The high-stakes contest is mainly between the ruling BJPJD(U)-led NDA and the RJDCongress Mahagathbandhan, with Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party seen as a potential spoiler. The AIMIM of Asaduddin Owaisi is also contesting several seats in Seemanchal. Prominent candidates in the fray include JD(U) veteran Bijendra Prasad Yadav, who is seeking ain eighth consecutive win from Supaul, BJP leader Prem Kumar, who has held the Gaya Town seat since 1990. Others are Renu Devi of BJP (Bettiah), and JD(U)s Leshi Singh (Dhamdaha). Minor clashes were reported in Nawada and Araria districts, but police quickly brought the situations under control. Over 1,600 companies of central and state armed police were deployed to ensure peaceful polling. Authorities said 590 people were arrested for disrupting the process, while 844 illegal weapons were seized. The counting of votes will take place on November 14.
2 Maoist-hit villages vote for first time since 47
SASARAM: What is common to Rehal village in Rohtas district and Pichhulia village in neighbouring Gaya? Voters of the two Maoist-affected villages exercised their franchise for the first time after Independence. Polling stations were set up at Rehal, situated on the Kaimur Plateau, for the first time. It was like a dream come true for me when I cast my vote at a polling booth located at Rehal government primary school, said Pramod Oraon, a local resident. Oraon in his early 50s is all praise for the Election Commission (EC) for setting up the booth for the second phase of the assembly elections. Polling and security personnel earlier refused to visit the village for security reasons. On February 15, 2002, a young DFO, Sanjay Singh, was killed by Maoists at Rehal for his tough action against mining mafia. Since then, security personnel stopped visiting the village. Earlier people had to go down to the plains to vote. For the first time polling booths have been up at the village, Oraon he told this reporter. Shyam Narain, 60, a former Pipardiha panchayat head, said, People of Rehal participated in the democratic process this time without fear. Security arrangements have been made by the EC and district administration for peaceful polling. Rehal is part of Chenari constituency. People mostly from Yadav, Oraon, Ravidas and Kharbar communities reside at the village, which till recently lacked basic amenities like electricity and drinking water. Panchayat head Yogendra Oraon said that so far, no party has given ticket to tribal candidates despite Chenari being a reserved seat. ADG (HQ) Kundan Krishnan said, In Gaya, voters of Maoist-hit Pichhulia village in Chakarbandha area participated in the democratic process for the first time after Independence.
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Bihar Election 2025 voter turnout: 14.55% recorded by 9 am as final phase underway
Voting for the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly elections commenced across 122 constituencies on Tuesday morning. By 9 am, the state recorded a voter turnout of 14.55%, with Gaya leading at 15.97%. This final phase involves over 1,302 candidates, and the results will be declared on November 14.
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Fresh faces, land of Sita, Seemanchal: Key battles shaping Bihar elections phase 2
After a record 64.66% voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar elections, the state is gearing up for the second phase, where political temperatures are set to rise. A total of 122 constituencies across 20 districts will go to the polls, featuring a mix of ministers, celebrities, and first-time contenders. Each seat carries its own local narrative and power equation. This phase will see 1,302 candidates, including 136 women, contesting roughly 10% of the total. In the 2020 assembly polls, the BJP won 42 of these seats, followed by the RJD with 33, JD(U) 20, Congress 11, and Left parties five. Below are key constituencies to watch: Chakai: Sumit Kumar Singh (JD(U)) vs Savitri Devi (RJD) Bihars Science and Technology Minister Sumit Kumar Singh is eyeing another term, this time as a JD(U) candidate under the NDA. Known for frequently shifting parties, he first entered the assembly in 2010 as a JMM candidate and made a comeback in 2020 as an Independent. His rival, RJDs Savitri Devi, previously won the seat in 2015. The constituencys sizeable Santhal tribal population adds complexity, with Alijaveth (Elizabeth) Soren commanding loyal support despite never winning. Adding to the mix is Chandan Kumar Singh, a philanthropist-turned-Independent, who initially backed Chirag Paswan before contesting on his own. Jamui: Shreyasi Singh (BJP) vs Mohammad Shamsad Alam (RJD) Shooter-turned-politician Shreyasi Singh seeks a second term as the BJP candidate. A gold medallist and member of a powerful political family, she defeated RJDs Vijay Prakash in 2020 by over 41,000 votes. This time, the Grand Alliance has fielded Mohammad Shamsad Alam against her. Lauriya: Ran Kaushal Pratap Singh (VIP) vs Binay Bihari (BJP) Ran Kaushal Pratap Singh, the richest candidate this election, has drawn attention in Lauriya with declared assets of 368.98 crore and his wifes 131 crore. He faces BJPs Binay Bihari, the sitting MLA. Bihar elections 2025: Voting begins for second phase, State on high alert after Delhi explosion Gaya Town: Dhirendra Agrawal (Jan Suraaj Party) vs Prem Kumar (BJP) vs Akhaury Onkar Nath (Congress) Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party has fielded Dhirendra Agrawal, a three-time former MP from Chatra, against BJPs Prem Kumar, who has held Gaya Town for eight consecutive terms. Agrawal, son of former RSS South Bihar chief Daya Prakash, represents Kishors attempt to project Jan Suraaj as a credible alternative. Congress has nominated Akhaury Onkar Nath. The wider Gaya district is key to Kishors experiment, where his party has also fielded ex-NDA figures in several seats. Phulparas: Sheela Kumari Mandal (JD(U)) vs Subodh Mandal (Congress) In Madhubanis Phulparas, Transport and Communication Minister Sheela Mandal is defending her seat. Known for her grassroots presence, she stirred controversy in 2020 after remarks comparing freedom fighters Veer Kunwar Singh and Ramphal Mandal triggered caste-based debate. She now faces Congresss Subodh Mandal. Amarpur: Jayant Raj Kushwaha (JD(U)) vs Jitendra Singh (Congress) Young cabinet minister Jayant Raj Kushwaha, son of former MLA Janardan Manjhi, is seeking re-election from Amarpur. A BBA graduate, he narrowly beat Congresss Jitendra Singh in 2020 and was later inducted into Nitish Kumars cabinet. The two face each other again this year. Dhamdaha: Leshi Singh (JD(U)) vs Santosh Kumar (RJD) In Purnias Dhamdaha, veteran JD(U) leader Leshi Singh, Bihars Food and Consumer Protection Minister, is eyeing another term. A consistent winner since 2000, she retained her seat in 2020 by about 34,000 votes. RJDs Santosh Kumar is her challenger this time. Kargahar: Ritesh Ranjan Pandey (Jan Suraaj) vs Santosh Mishra (Congress) vs Vashishth Singh (JD(U)) Popular Bhojpuri actor-singer Ritesh Pandey, known for hits like Balma Bihar Wala and Hello Kaun , is contesting from Kargahar under Jan Suraaj. He faces Congresss Santosh Mishra and JD(U)s Vashishth Singh. Pandeys entry surprised many who expected Prashant Kishor himself to contest from this seat. Chhatapur: Neeraj Kumar Singh Bablu (BJP) vs Dr Vipin Kumar Singh (RJD) Neeraj Kumar Singh, popularly known as Bablu, and cousin of late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, is contesting again from Chhatapur in Supaul district. Currently Bihars Environment and Forest Minister, he gained prominence after vocally demanding justice for Sushant in 2020. He now faces RJDs Dr Vipin Kumar Singh. Bettiah: Renu Devi (BJP) vs Washi Ahmad (Congress) Former Deputy Chief Minister Renu Devi, currently Minister for Animal and Fisheries Resources, seeks re-election from Bettiah. A long-time BJP figure who began her political career in 1981 through social work, Devi has risen through the ranks of the BJP Mahila Morcha since 1988. She faces Congresss Washi Ahmad this time. Muslim women vote in large numbers in first phase of Bihar polls after SIR exercise Sitamarhi: Sunil Kumar Pintu (BJP) vs Sunil Kumar (RJD) Sunil Kumar Pintu, a four-time MLA and former MP, is contesting again from Sitamarhi. Pintu, who also heads the Shri Bhagwati Sita Tirtha Kshetra Samiti, wields significant cultural and political influence His campaign was hit by controversy after an alleged private video resurfaced online a clip he dismissed as an old opposition trick. Despite this, he has the BJPs full backing, with Amit Shah campaigning for him. He faces RJDs Sunil Kumar. Chainpur: Mohammad Zama Khan (JD(U)) vs Brij Kishor Bind (RJD) vs Balgovind Bind (VIP) In Chainpur, Minority Affairs Minister Mohammad Zama Khan faces opposition from both allies and rivals. Khan, who won in 2020 as a BSP candidate before joining JD(U), has faced criticism from sections of the Muslim community over the Waqf Bill controversy. The RJD has fielded Brij Kishor Bind, while the VIP has nominated Balgovind Bind, resulting in a three-cornered contest. Parihar: Gayatri Devi (BJP) vs Ritu Jaiswal (Independent) vs Smita Purbe (RJD) In Sitamarhis Parihar, three women are in the fray. The seat, near the Ma Janki temple at Punaruadham, gained national attention after Amit Shah announced its 800 crore renovation plan. Sitting MLA Gayatri Devi (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive win. In 2020, she narrowly defeated Ritu Jaiswal (RJD) by about 2,000 votes. Denied a ticket this time, Ritu is contesting as an independent, while the RJD has fielded Smita Purbe, daughter-in-law of veteran leader Ram Chandra Purbe. The Seemanchal Equation The politically sensitive Seemanchal region comprising Purnea, Araria, Kishanganj, and Katihar will be a crucial battleground in this phase. Home to a large portion of Bihars 17% Muslim population, Seemanchal has seen intense campaigning from all major parties, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Rahul Gandhi. In 2020, the BJP won eight of the regions seats, JD(U) four, Congress five, CPIML and RJD one each, while AIMIM won five before four of its MLAs joined the RJD. Friendly Fire Several constituencies will witness intra-alliance clashes within the Grand Alliance. In Narkatiaganj, Congresss Shashwat Kedar Pandey faces RJDs Deepak Yadav, while the NDA has fielded BJPs Sanjay Pandey. In Kahalgaon, Congresss Praveen Singh Kushwaha takes on RJDs Rajnish Bharti, with JD(U)s Shubh Anand Mukesh representing the NDA. In Pipra, CPI(ML)s Anil Kumar faces CPI(M)s Rajmangal Prasad, while BJPs Shyambabu Prasad Yadav contests for the NDA. Bihar polls: Legacy, family feuds and fresh faces shape key battles in Phase 1
Bihar assembly election: Litmus test for NDA, Mahagathbandhan in second and final phase
PATNA: The second phase of Bihar assembly polls will be like a litmus test for both ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition Mahagathbandhan, as both alliances are apparently evenly poised in the first round. The second phase of polling will take place in 122 constituencies across 20 districts of Bihar. After the first round of the election , held on November 6, which finished with a record voter turnout, the second phase polls to be held on Tuesday will decide which alliance will finally form the government in the state. As many as 40 seats in Tirhut, 24 in Seemanchal, 26 in Magadh, and 22 seats in Shahabad regions will go to the polls in the second phase. The 122 seats going to polls in the second and final phase are spread across 20 districts of Bihars central, western and northern regions. BJP traditionally dominated Tirhut, Saran, and northern Mithilanchal regions, whereas JD(U) has a strong ground in Bhagalpur. Mahagathbandhan , on the other hand, has dominant base in Magadh and Shahabad regions covering the districts of Jehabanad, Gaya, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Kaimur, Arwal, and Nawada. Congress, however, does not have a strong influence in this region and it largely rallied on its allies. While the opposition Mahagathbandhan faces the challenge of repeating its performance in Shahabad and Magadh regions, the ruling NDA will have to perform better in these regions and also hold its electoral bastions intact. In the 2020 assembly elections, the NDA dominated in Tirhut, while the Mahagathbandhan performed better in Magadh and Shahabad regions. During that election, Mahagathbandhan won only seven out of the 24 assembly seats in Seemanchal, whereas NDA won 31 out of the 40 seats in Tirhut region. Opposition shielding infiltrators for vote bank politics: Shah Tirhut played a significant role in bringing the NDA to power. The Mahagathbandhan won only nine seats here in 2020 assembly election. This crushing defeat in this region kept the party away from power. If the NDA retains its grip on Tirhut and succeeds in breaching the Mahagathbandhans bastions in Magadh and Shahabad or if the Mahagathbandhan defends its hold in Magadh while making gains in Tirhut the overall electoral dynamics could shift significantly. The 24 seats in Seemanchal are crucial in determining the formation of the government. In the last assembly elections, out of the 24 seats in Seemanchal, the BJP won eight, JD (U) four, Congress five, RJD and CPI (ML) one each, while AIMIM won five seats. The Mahagathbandhan is trying to consolidate its core voters in Seemanchal, while the NDA is working to further strengthen its position there. The presence of AIMIM and Jan Suraaj Party has made the election a triangular contest. This time too, Seemanchal has witnessed a power-packed campaign by all political parties. From rallies by BJP bigwigs, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, to the Rahul Gandhi-led Voter Adhikar Yatra, all parties have walked the extra mile to woo the Seemanchal voters. The Magadh region includes Gaya, Aurangabad, Nawada, Jehanabad, and Arwal districts. In 2020, Jitan Ram Manjhi's HAM party held the Imamganj, Tikari, and Barachatti seats in Gaya district. In 2025, HAM candidates are facing tough competition on all three seats. BJP is contesting from Gaya Town, JD (U) from Belaganj, Congress from Wazirganj, and LJP from Sherghati. Similarly, the prestige of the state Congress president Rajesh Ram is at stake in Kutumba, Aurangabad. The situation has changed for NDA as union minister Chirag Paswans LJP (RV) and former union minister Upendra Kushwaha`s RLM are contesting the polls this time as allies of the ruling alliance. In addition to it, Bihar governments scheme, 'Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojan' may also tilt the balance in faovur of the NDA this time, remarked political analyst. Under the scheme, women have received Rs 10,000 for opening their own businesses as the government would provide subsequent support up to Rs 2 lakh. In the 2020 Assembly election, the Mahagathbandhan won 20 seats, though its performance in Magadh, like in Shahabad, was weakened by rifts among its Kushwaha and Scheduled Caste supporters. The NDA failed to win any seats in Magadhs three districts Jehanabad, Aurangabad, and Arwal. This time, the NDA has replaced several candidates in the region and allotted six seats to its new ally, LJP (RV), which had contested independently in 2020. Nitish Kumar was, is, and will be Bihar's CM: BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad
RJD rebel sets up a battle of three women in land of Sita
SITAMARHI: Bihars women power has been a subject of animated discussion during the assembly election campaign, but the Parihar assembly constituency in Sitamarhi district stands out as three women are in the fray. Its a contest among three influential women in the constituency, close to Maa Janki temple near Punaruadham, which caught nations attention after Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation for renovation of the temple at `800 crore. The seat is now held by BJP MLA Gayatri Devi, who is seeking re-election to make a hat-trick. She defeated Ritu Jaiswal of the RJD by a margin of about 2000 votes in 2020 polls. In 2010, Gayantris husband Ram Naresh Yadav had won from Parihar that came into existence after delimitation in 2008. In 2015, Gayatri as a BJP nominee defeated Ram Chandra Purbe, then RJD state chief. In 2020, she retained the seat. Ritu Jaiswal, RJD womens wing state president, is contesting as a rebel (Independent) as the party denied her ticket and fielded Smita Purbe, daughter in-law of Ram Chandra Purbe, from the seat. Rita had unsuccessfully contested 2019 Lok Sabha election from Sheohar. I decided to contest the election on the demand of my supporters and residents, who give me love and affection. How can I forget their fight for me in the previous assembly election which I lost by a slender margin, she told this reporter during her campaign. Smita is trying to restore her father-in-laws legacy who represented neighbouring Sonbarsa many times. She is mainly relying on RJDs traditional MY (Yadav-Muslim support base) combination. Both Smita and Ritu belong to Vaishya community with a sizable population in the constituency. Gayatri, a Yadav, has put RJDs Yadav voters in a fix. I have supporters among Yadavs who will vote for me, she said, adding that the fight between Ritu and Smita has brightened her victory chances. Ritu started her political journey as a Singjvahini panchayat chief after quitting her job in Delhi. Married to a civil servant, she chose to stay in village. Muslim voters are by and large in favour of RJDs Smita. Had RJD fielded Ritu Jaiswal, she would have won, said Mohammad Javed of Indarba village. Migration, unemployment, and floods are key issues. Roads are in good condition, electricity is available 24x7 and there a Kendriya Vidyalaya. But lack of job and job opportunities are the major problems here, said RBP Sinha, a retired engineer of Sithihara village.
