The Home Department issued the directive onJuly 18) following a request from the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), Mumbai, which sought extension of operating hours for hospitality establishments on the night of the final
Sleep deprived? Blame it on climate change
Global citizens lose seven nights of sleep annually due to warmer temperatures. Climate change directly causes about ten percent of this lost sleep. Indian cities experience substantial sleep loss, with Chennai and Mumbai heavily affected. Climate change's impact on sleep loss has doubled since the early 1970s. This warming trend undermines fundamental human health requirements.
Bandras gaothans are open for business but at what cost to the community?
14-year-old dies in Airoli hospital, family go to police
SIR toh mera chakraaye, say many Mumbaikars citing confusion over documents
23-year-old man found dead with bullet injury at Badlapur farmhouse
Thane MP seeks action against railway canteen over alleged hygiene violations
Will lead Parliament protest as Sonam Wangchuk continues hunger strike: Angmo
Sonam Wangchuks wife, Gitanjali Angmo said that Wangchuk will end his indefinite hunger strike if political leaders visit him at Safdarjung Hospital and assure him that education accountability will be a key issue during the Monsoon Session of Parliament beginning on Monday
Scammers Steal Rs 78 Lakh via Gold Loan Firm Software Hack in Mumbai
18 fraudulent fund transfers were credited to nationalised and private banks in Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, Maharashtra and other states in hour-and-a-half
Speeding Porsche hits divider, car on Coastal Road, girl injured
Peru: Five killed after 5.5 magnitude earthquake hits Andes region
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake struck on Saturday at 9:24 pm local time, with its epicentre located 2 kilometres west-southwest of the city of Sicaya, in Huancayo province
Bhoiwada police reported 14 separate offences of cyber frauds in one day
Eight killed, 12 injured in multiple landslides in Nagaland's Mon
Wennyei Konyak, Deputy Commissioner of Mon district in Nagaland, said that so far, four bodies have been recovered, and four others are still under the debris
Fatal Collision Between Bus and Car on National Highway Claims Two Lives
Mumbai, July 19: A tragic accident occurred on Saturday in Basti district, Uttar Pradesh, where a bus and a car collided head-on on the National Highway. The impact was severe, resulting in the car being completely wrecked. Unfortunately, two individuals lost their lives in this incident. Chaos ensued at the scene following the crash. Bystanders ... Read more Fatal Collision Between Bus and Car on National Highway Claims Two Lives
Man killed, two injured as gang of robbers strike in Nagpur
Nagpur Police in Maharashtra said that the incidents occurred within a short span of time, prompting an overnight operation that led to the arrest of all seven accused
Citizens Campaign Raises Awareness on Smart Meters, Collects Consumer Complaints
Attack on doctors: After Bombay HC stays bail, Sena corporator surrenders; patients mom held
Remembering Geeta Dutt: The Enchanting Voice That Remained Unfulfilled
Mumbai, July 19: Geeta Dutt was a unique singer in the world of music, whose voice resonated with pain, love, and the myriad colors of life. Iconic songs like Babooji Dheere Chalna, Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam, and Mera Sundar Sapna Beet Gaya continue to define her legacy. Geeta Dutts story is not just ... Read more Remembering Geeta Dutt: The Enchanting Voice That Remained Unfulfilled
Slab collapses in dangerous building in Virar, no one injured
13 trekkers stuck between two forts in Navi Mumbai rescued
2 parked two-wheelers plunge into drain as Bhandup footpath caves in
Congress Leader Hussain Dalwai Highlights Key Issues for Monsoon Session
Mumbai, July 19: The Lok Sabhas Monsoon Session is set to commence on Monday. Senior Congress leader Hussain Dalwai stated that the parties within the INDIA alliance will unite to challenge the central government on various issues. In a conversation in Mumbai, Dalwai emphasized that the Congress party will vigorously raise topics such as the ... Read more Congress Leader Hussain Dalwai Highlights Key Issues for Monsoon Session
Blaze at Ghodbunder Business Park in Thane sparks fresh fire safety concerns
Advance bookings for Jana Nayagan have opened across several Indian cities, and the response has been strong even with premium ticket prices. In Bengaluru, some recliner seats are priced at 2,500 and several early shows have already sold out. Chennai has kept ticket prices capped, but theatres still reported thousands of bookings within minutes. Directed by H. Vinoth, Vijays much-anticipated film is set to release on July 23 after a seven-month delay.
Attack on doctors: Maha IMA calls off July 20 stir, but warns of indefinite strike from Aug 9
Bombay HC cancelled the bail granted to Ramesh Mhatre by the Kalyan Judicial Magistrate First Class Court; matter has been posted for further hearing on July 22
Iran claims US attacked under-construction Darkhovin nuclear power plant
According to the AEOI, the strike occurred at around 3.39 a.m. local time and involved multiple projectiles targeting the Darkhovin nuclear power plant, which is still under construction
CISF seizes 1,800 tonnes of coal worth Rs 1.08 cr in major crackdown
The crackdown was carried out over the past three weeks across coalfields protected by the CISF as part of efforts to prevent illegal extraction and coal leakage
'Health concern is a charade': Sonam Wangchuk's wife targets Centre
According to Angmo, if officials were genuinely concerned about his health, they could have informed the family and arranged for medical evaluation in a transparent manner rather than removing him from the protest site
UTT Juniors: Ahon and Somdev Shine as U Mumba TT Claims First Title
Mumbai, July 19: U Mumba TT has made history by winning its first title, thanks to the stellar performances of top draft pick Ahon Ray and one of Indias most promising young talents, Somdev Sengupta. On Sunday, U Mumba TT triumphed over Dabang Delhi TTC with a score of 5-2 at the Dr. Shyama Prasad ... Read more UTT Juniors: Ahon and Somdev Shine as U Mumba TT Claims First Title
Is he unwell?: Salman Khan's latest Mumbai appearance sparks concern among fans
Is he unwell?: Salman Khan's latest Mumbai appearance sparks concern among fans
Speeding Porsche crashes into divider, hits car on Mumbai's Coastal Road; minor girl hurt
Preliminary investigation suggests the Porsche driver lost control, crashing the vehicle into the divider and hitting another car, the official said
Vijay's Jana Nayagan Tickets Sell Like Hot Cakes
The advance bookings for Vijay's last film have opened in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kerala, Delhi and more. The tickets for the Tamil version of the film are priced between Rs 100 and Rs 800
Delhi HC declines relief to Wangchuk, says shift to hospital not arbitrary
Hearing the matter, Justice Mini Pushkarna issued notice to the Centre, the Delhi Police and other respondents, directing them to submit status reports before the next hearing scheduled for July 24
CBI conducts searches at 15 locations in Mumbai, Delhi in Reliance ADA Group cases
The CBI said it has registered seven FIRs, seized incriminating documents during the searches, and that the Supreme Court is monitoring the ongoing investigation
Wangchuk's hunger strike: Centre displaying dictatorial attitude, says Patole
Speaking to reporters in Maharashtra's Pune, Patole claimed the government's actions were undermining democratic values and questioned the manner in which Wangchuk was removed from the protest site
Rajesh Sharma discharged from hospital after health scare 'Fauzi' set
Veteran actor Rajesh Sharma has been discharged from the hospital after a health scare. He was admitted following an insect bite while filming Prabhas' upcoming movie 'Fauzi'. FWICE confirmed his recovery and return to Mumbai after treatment for complications. His sugar levels had risen, causing significant health issues during his recovery period. Sharma is expected to resume his work on the film sets in a few days.
Sanjay Mishra Honored with National Award for Bhakshak
Mumbai, July 19: Renowned Hindi cinema actor Sanjay Mishra has captivated audiences with a variety of memorable roles throughout his extensive career. His ability to seamlessly transition between serious characters and light-hearted performances has established him as a unique talent in the industry. Recently, he achieved another significant milestone by receiving the Best Supporting Actor ... Read more Sanjay Mishra Honored with National Award for Bhakshak
MP Cabinet approves Uniform Civil Code draft
The approval comes a day before the five-day Monsoon Session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly begins, where the government is expected to present the Bill for discussion and further legislative proceedings
Can builder's loose papers lead to an income tax notice? ITAT explains the law
A Mumbai ITAT ruling has held that the Income Tax Department cannot tax a property buyer merely because their name appears in a builder's seized cash records. The Revenue must prove an undisclosed cash payment with independent corroborative evidence before invoking Section 69A.
Speeding Porsche crashes into divider on Mumbai's coastal road after driver loses control
A speeding Porsche crashed into a divider on Mumbai's Coastal Road. The driver allegedly lost control of the luxury vehicle while traveling at high speed. Airbags deployed, and the driver sustained only minor injuries from the impact. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. No other injuries were reported in the incident.
Police question key accused Tinnu, nephew in alleged Ram Mandir donation scam
The probe into the alleged theft of Ram Mandir donations has intensified, with police questioning key accused Ramshankar Yadav alias 'Tinnu' and his nephew Manish Yadav during custody remand. Investigators are examining unauthorised access to donation box keys and alleged irregularities
A Mumbai man has sparked an online discussion after saying that earning more than Rs 2 lakh a month can become a rap if people continue chasing higher salaries at the cost of their health, family and personal life. In a viral video, Mohit Talreja advised professionals to focus on long-term well-being and develop independent income-generating skills instead of staying caught in the endless race for promotions and bigger paychecks.
New Delhi Police Commissioner vows crackdown on corruption in first meeting
The meeting marked Kumar's first major interaction with senior police officers since assuming charge as the Delhi Police Commissioner
Viral video of Gaurav Gupta and Ananya Panday triggers social media debate
A video of designer Gaurav Gupta placing his hand on Ananya Panday's waist during a post-show photo session in Mumbai has gone viral. While some netizens called the gesture inappropriate, others defended it as a harmless interaction, sparking debate online
Five of Indias Top Ten Companies See Market Cap Surge of 1.54 Lakh Crore
Mumbai, July 19: In a remarkable week for the Indian stock market, five of the top ten companies have witnessed a market capitalization increase of 1.54 lakh crore. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and ICICI Bank have benefited the most. TCS experienced the highest valuation growth, with its market cap rising by 72,072.3 crore to reach ... Read more Five of Indias Top Ten Companies See Market Cap Surge of 1.54 Lakh Crore
Amarnath Yatra suspended as IMD forecasts heavy rain in Jammu and Kashmir
Authorities have temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra and the pilgrimages to Mata Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori shrines after the IMD forecast widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir. The precautionary move aims to ensure pilgrims' safety amid adverse weather conditions
Mumbai police are examining a social media threat against actor Aamir Khan. The post, attributed to the Bishnoi gang, accuses him of promoting 'love jihad'. Gangsters Tyson Bishnoi and Aarzoo Bishnoi allegedly issued the warning on Facebook. The police are investigating the veracity of the social media post and voice clip. Lawrence Bishnoi is currently lodged in Gujarat's Sabarmati jail.
Reddit User Questions Rs 40,000 Internship In Mumbai As Rent Takes Most Of His Stipend
The fresher would have to depend on their parents for additional money every month just to continue with the internship.
Salman dodges Maatrubhumi queries with a humorous response
Salman Khan visited Mumbai's SRA office, inaugurated a new IT centre, and distributed house keys. He playfully dodged 'Maatrubhumi' questions, saying, Ask me anything, not that one. SKF denied reports of CBFC issues with the film. Salman's next, an actioner with Nayanthara, is set for Eid 2027.
One killed, 61 hurt in Ukraine drone attack on Moscow region
One person was killed and 61 others were injured after a Ukrainian drone attack struck Russia's Moscow region, with Elektrostal suffering the heaviest damage. Russian authorities said air defence systems intercepted hundreds of Ukrainian drones, while Moscow also reported fresh strikes on military-related targets in Ukraine.
Rahul, Kharge seek probe into Ram Temple donation case
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking an independent probe into the alleged Ram Temple donation theft case. They demanded transparency in the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust's finances and called for public disclosure of donations, accounts and accountability for those f
UP STF arrests Nigerian in Delhi over cyber fraud racket
The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) arrested a Nigerian national in Delhi for allegedly running an online fraud racket that duped victims through fake social media profiles. Officials also seized 5.085 kg of methamphetamine worth over Rs 10 crore and uncovered links to an organised cybercrime and drug trafficking network.
Sonam Wangchuk stable, needs round-the-clock care
Activist Sonam Wangchuk remains in a stable condition at Safdarjung Hospital after being shifted from Jantar Mantar following a 21-day hunger strike. Doctors said he requires continuous medical supervision as prolonged fasting has caused physiological stress and marginal changes in his blood parameters despite stable vital signs.
Panama's Foreign Minister arrives in India on five-day official visit
Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Eduardo Martinez-Acha Vasquez arrived in New Delhi on a five-day official visit to boost India-Panama relations. He will hold talks with S. Jaishankar, Piyush Goyal and Sarbananda Sonowal on trade, maritime cooperation, connectivity and bilateral ties
Sonam Wangchuk's health deteriorates on Day 20 of hunger strike
Activist Sonam Wangchuk, admitted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital after 20 days of fasting, is suffering from dehydration, low potassium and rising ketone levels, doctors said. Hospital authorities are urging him to accept treatment as concerns grow over possible kidney and metabolic complications
Chandrashekhar Azad joins Jantar Mantar protest
Azad Samaj Party (Kanshiram) chief and MP Chandrashekhar Azad joined protesters at Jantar Mantar after activist Sonam Wangchuk was removed by Delhi Police and admitted to Safdarjung Hospital. Student groups and CJP members also gathered in solidarity, while doctors warned Wangchuk's health could worsen without immediate medical intervention.
Weather today, July 19: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for many Indian states on Sunday, the IMD has said. Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim anticipate extremely heavy rain in isolated areas. Thunderstorms with gusty winds and lightning are also expected across several regions. Delhi-NCR remains under a yellow alert with light rain and humid conditions.
Mumbai, July 19: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is vigorously campaigning for the upcoming by-election in Bankipur, Bihar. On Sunday, BJP candidate Neeraj Kumar Sinha, along with Minister Shailendra Kumar and former Minister Jivesh Mishra, took to the streets to rally support in the Bankipur assembly constituency. Sinha asserted that he is receiving overwhelming love ... Read more BJP Intensifies Campaign in Bankipur By-Election, Candidate Neeraj Sinha Claims Strong Public Support
Mid-Day Opinion: The Rise of Nava-grahas
This second-wave Jyotisha was fundamentally different from its Vedic ancestor: no longer about measuring time but about predicting fortune.
Mid-Day Opinion: Lobo Lobo and the Odyssey
On another note, why are you dressed in this armour and what is this vessel that you have parked outside?
Mid-Day Opinion: Sobers, the greatest cricketer to walk the Earth
Sir Garfield never even wore a thigh pad against the fastest of bowlers. There was nothing he could not do on the cricket field. He was truly the original God of cricket
Russian psychics offer witchcraft to cut fuel costs
As fuel prices remain high, some Russian psychics and self-proclaimed clairvoyants are reportedly offering paid witchcraft services that claim to reduce a vehicle's fuel consumption. The unusual trend has drawn attention for targeting motorists hoping to save money on rising fuel costs.
Pune tops Maharashtra in unhygienic food complaints: FDA
Pune: Pune district has reported the highest number of complaints about unhygienic food in Maharashtra since the state Food and Drug Administration launched a complaint-reporting portal, FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has said. The senior IAS officer was in the city on Saturday to attend a food safety conference organised by the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, 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 .
Eight killed in Ukrainian drone attacks on Russia
Eight people were killed and more than 60 injured in overnight Ukrainian drone attacks across Russia, officials said. The strikes reportedly targeted energy infrastructure, military facilities and warehouses, while Ukraine said it hit key logistical sites supporting Russia's military operations
China builds 500 J-20 stealth fighters, says report
China has reportedly produced around 500 J-20 'Mighty Dragon' stealth fighter jets, strengthening the People's Liberation Army Air Force. The development comes as India continues work on its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is expected to take about a decade to become operational.
Mount Olympus set for UNESCO World Heritage status
Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the 12 Olympian gods in Greek mythology, is set to be considered for inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage List as a mixed cultural and natural site. The proposal will be discussed during the World Heritage Committee meeting in Busan, South Korea
Ken-Betwa project protest enters 15th day
The indefinite hunger strike against the Ken-Betwa Link Project entered its 15th day as protesters continued to raise concerns over displacement and rehabilitation. The agitation has also included jal satyagraha, chita satyagraha and faansi satyagraha, while the administration says additional rehabilitation funds have been sanctioned
Mumbai weather: IMD issues Yellow alert as rains return
Heavy showers returned to Mumbai and Thane on Saturday evening. The India Meteorological Department issued a yellow alert for these areas. Moderate rainfall is expected to continue through July twenty-second. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions during this period. The weather department warned of heavy rainfall at isolated places.
FIFA finale frenzy: Mumbaikars turn homes into mini stadiums
Mumbai's football fans are transforming homes into viewing parties for the late-night World Cup final. Many are setting up big screens and gathering friends to avoid pub closures. Some professionals will watch the match from their offices due to late work shifts. The event includes a Super Bowl-style halftime show with major international artists. Mumbai residents show divided support between Spain and Argentina for the championship game.
ICICI Bank Q1 profit jumps 13.8% on high loan growth, core income
Mumbai, Jul 18:ICICI Bank on Saturday reported a 13.88 per cent jump in June quarter consolidated profit at Rs 15,440 crore, up from Rs 13,558 crore in the year-ago period on the back of faster credit growth. In an exchange filing, the second-largest private sector lender said its standalone net profit grew 15.95 per cent to Rs 14,804 crore for the April-June quarter on a standalone basis, up 15.95 per cent from Rs 12,768 crore in the year-ago period. The net interest income (NII) increased 12.7 per cent on-year to Rs 24,384 crore in the quarter under review, on the back of a nearly 20 per cent jump in advances and a slight widening in the net interest margin to 4.36 per cent. Its Executive Director Sandeep Batra said the bank was able to buck a system-wide trend and report an expansion in NIMs courtesy a income tax refund and also repricing of term deposits. Going forward, channeling-in inflows from the FCNR(B) will be dilutive on the NIMs front, he said, but the bank is confident of keeping it ange-bound for FY27. Declining to share a target on the FCNR(B) front, Batra said the bank has activated its international network and also looking for partners to ramp up and make the FCNR (B) a success. The bank did not offer a guidance on its comfort on the maximum leverage that it is planning for, saying that it depends on a number of factors, including the call taken by its local partners as well. In the quarter under review, the other income excluding treasury income increased by 16 per cent on-year to Rs 8,425 crore for the reporting quarter and the bank also reported a treasury gain of Rs 151 crore. The deposit growth came at 14 per cent for the lender. From an asset quality perspective, the gross non-performing assets ratio improved to 1.38 per cent from 1.67 per cent a year ago and 1.40 per cent at the end of March this year. Fresh slippages came at Rs 5,500 crore, which was down from Rs 6,200 crore in the year-ago period but higher when compared to the preceding quarter. Bank officials explained that there is seasonality every year, where the first quarter tends to have higher stress primarily because of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) accounts. Provisions, excluding money set aside as tax, was Rs 1,260 crore in Q1, down from Rs 1,815 crore in Q1FY26. The bank does not see any material impact of the transition to the expected credit loss-based system from April 1, 2027 and has adequate covers in place for the same, he said. The bank disclosed that it continues to carry a Rs 13,100-crore provision on its books. From a sustenance of the loan growth perspective, the bank said it sees adequate opportunities to lend in the corporate book, where the banking system has been slow to grow due to variety of factors over the last many years, Batra said. The bank does not have any preferences or a list of sectors it wishes to avoid either, he said, stressing that the high credit growth of nearly 20 per cent -- one of the highest reported by any bank so far in Q1 -- is a function of the economic activity and also policy initiative, Batra said.
Urvashi Rautela Meets Tom Hiddleston at Wimbledon 2026: A Bollywood-Hollywood Connection
Mumbai, July 18: Actress Urvashi Rautela recently met Hollywood star Tom Hiddleston during the Wimbledon 2026 Mens Final. She shared insights about their conversation, highlighting their discussions on cinema. Rautela expressed, Attending the Wimbledon 2026 Mens Final was one of my most memorable experiences. Watching Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner and German player Alexander Zverev ... Read more Urvashi Rautela Meets Tom Hiddleston at Wimbledon 2026: A Bollywood-Hollywood Connection
Key Issues for Discussion in Upcoming Monsoon Session, Says Anand Dubey
Mumbai, July 19: Anand Dubey, spokesperson for Shiv Sena (UBT), emphasized the need for serious discussions on critical national issues during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, starting July 20. He stated that the functioning of Parliament is funded by taxpayer money, making it essential for both the ruling and opposition parties to ensure smooth ... Read more Key Issues for Discussion in Upcoming Monsoon Session, Says Anand Dubey
Bihar Agricultural University Declares Ramasi Village as Indias First Sindoor Village
Mumbai, July 19: Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, has officially designated Ramasi village in Bhagalpur district as Indias first Sindoor Village. This initiative is seen as a significant step towards rural development, womens empowerment, and promoting agriculture-based employment. The event was led by Vice-Chancellor Dr. D.R. Singh, with participation from local representatives, scientists, women farmers, ... Read more Bihar Agricultural University Declares Ramasi Village as Indias First Sindoor Village
Pune Set to Become a Development Engine by 2030, Says CM Devendra Fadnavis
Mumbai, July 19: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Saturday that Pune is on track to become a major global hub for Deep Tech and Global Capability Centers (GCC) by 2030. He emphasized that the city will establish itself as a leading modern city and a growth engine for the country. During the inauguration ceremony ... Read more Pune Set to Become a Development Engine by 2030, Says CM Devendra Fadnavis
Mumbai tribunal orders mother, insurer to Pay 40 lakh in teen scooter crash case
Nashik astrologer opened 60 bank accounts using followers documents: ED chargesheet
Ashok Kharat, wife among six charged in money laundering case
Four-year programmes face bumpy rollout in Mumbai University
The Final Sanctuary: How the Living House the Dead across Earth, Sky, and Sea
The 16th of July marked the 34th death anniversary of my dear father. In this connection, I attended the Fatiha prayer at his grave, and standing there, I was deeply reminded of how much our loved ones matter to us, even long after they have departed. The relationship between the living and the dead is one of the oldest stories of human civilization. It is written not just in our hearts, but in the very soil, air, and water of the places we call home. As the world grows more crowded and our environments change, the ways we say our final goodbyes are evolvingreflecting a delicate balance between sacred tradition and modern necessity. The Close Neighbors of Mallaratta: Kashmirs Intimate Lands In the historic quarters of Srinagar, death has never been segregated from daily life. To this day, my ancestral home, Yarkand House in Mallaratta, stands tall and firm after 115 years of construction. Just twenty feet away lies our family graveyard, Maqbara Sadat Andrabis, where my parents, grandmother, and paternal uncles rest in peace. Purchased by my great-grandfather in mid-1916 from his pious Andrabi father-in-law for the princely sum of rupees eighteen, this plot remains beautifully maintained by the family. In those good old days, keeping graveyards close to residential houses was a comforting philosophya daily, grounding reminder of mortality, love, and continuity. On a grander scale, the historic Malkha graveyard was established centuries ago as a central repository of memory for the Muslims of Srinagar. Originally a vast grape orchard spanning a thousand kanals, it was centrally located. Tragically, modern urbanization and political short-sightedness have reduced it to less than two hundred kanals. Encroachmentsranging from schools and mosques to slum colonies, stadium spaces, a gondola take-off stand, and the Rainwari Hospitalhave slowly fractured this collective heritage. Yet, Kashmirs land laws historically accommodated this sacred geography. In rural areas, freshly converted communities utilized abundant state or grazing lands, recorded in revenue registers as Kachari, Shamilat, or Abadi Deh. These final resting places were legally protected under designations like Maqbooza Qabristan or Ahli-Islam. Similarly, the Kashmiri Pandit community utilized designated lands for their last rites, formally recorded as Maqbooza Ahli-Hinoo, Shamshan Ghat, or Awarin. Whether through burial or fire, the departed remained rooted in the land. The Birdless Skies: The Changing Rituals of the Parsis While Kashmir looks to the earth, the Parsi community traditionally looked to the sky. Holding the elements of nature in absolute veneration, Zoroastrian tradition dictates that burying a body desecrates the earth, and burning it pollutes sacred fire. Thus, they constructed Dakhmas, or Towers of Silence, where the dead were left open to the elements and to vulturesa system designed as the ultimate eco-friendly act of giving back to nature. However, these ancient towers are losing their sheen. The vulture population across India has dwindled catastrophically due to inadvertent poisoning from veterinary drugs like diclofenac. With the skies suddenly empty, the community has had to adapt. Today, many Parsis are shifting their attitudes toward modern technology, turning to electric crematoriumsparticularly in Mumbai and parts of Gujaratmarrying ancient prayers with contemporary realities. The Automated Vaults of Japan Farther east, in the hyper-dense urban centers of Japan, the challenge is sheer space. The Japanese have innovated an incredibly advanced, scientific approach to handling the dead. In modern, multi-story indoor cemeteries, they utilize deep, rounded well-like pits designed with state-of-the-art engineering. Each family possesses their own automated vault box. When a body is placed inside, specific, highly regulated chemical compounds are introduced to accelerate decomposition safely and rapidly. Within a remarkably short period, the physical remains are reduced to clean ashes. The vault is then thoroughly cleansed and prepared, efficiently making room for the next family member. It is a striking blend of profound ancestral respect and futuristic spatial efficiency. Rest in the Deep: The Ancient Law of Sea Burials For those who spent their lives moving across the vast expanse of the oceans, the final resting place is neither earth nor sky, but the deep blue. Sea burial is a time-honored tradition, particularly for sailors, explorers, or travelers who pass away at sea. Steeped in maritime protocol, the body is carefully prepared, weighted, sewn into a canvas shroud, and lowered into the ocean depths. Out of sight of land, the body gently descends to the seabed, where marine life naturally consumes the physical form, returning the traveler to the great cradle of the worlds waters. Sky Burials of Ladakh and Tibet: The Frozen Horizons In contrast to the warm oceans, the high-altitude, freezing ecosystems of places like Ladakh and Tibet offer unique challenges. In these arid, rocky, and timber-scarce environments, digging a grave into frozen earth is nearly impossible, and there is little wood available for large funeral pyres. Here, the ancient practice of Sky Burial (Jhator) takes a different form than that of the Parsis. On designated sacred mountaintops, specialized practitioners gently prepare the body, which is then offered to Himalayan vultures. In the Buddhist philosophy of these regions, the body is seen as an empty vessel once the soul leaves. Offering the physical remains to the birds is considered a final, supreme act of generosity and compassion toward other living creatures, ensuring that the lifecycle continues even on the barren, cold roofs of the world. Conclusion: A Shared Journey Home From the rose-rimmed walls of Yarkand House in Mallaratta to the automated towers of Tokyo, and from the deep ocean trenches to the windswept peaks of Ladakh, humanitys diverse funeral customs reveal a beautiful truth. We may use earth, fire, air, or water to return our loved ones to the universe, but the underlying intent remains identical: to honor our past, to respect our environment, and to ensure that those who shaped our lives are never truly forgotten. (The author is a former civil servant from the administrative service.Email: nisargilani57748@gmail.com )
Lonavala Chikki Receives GI Tag, Elevating the Tourist Destinations Prestige
Mumbai, July 18: Lonavala, a prominent tourist destination nestled in the lush Sahyadri mountains, has achieved a significant milestone. The world-famous Lonavala Chikki has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition provides official status to Lonavalas traditional chikki, ensuring the preservation of this historical food products uniqueness. It is expected to boost local ... Read more Lonavala Chikki Receives GI Tag, Elevating the Tourist Destinations Prestige
IMA to decide on statewide strike over assault on doctors on Sunday
Fourth-year programmes face bumpy rollout in Mumbai University
Residents hold protest against Amazon data centre in Thane
Amazon's large data centre project in Thane faces significant local and political opposition. Residents protested, citing concerns about noise, environmental hazards, and resource shortages. Local leaders voiced worries about water scarcity and the project's impact on existing infrastructure. Political parties, including Shiv Sena, have also raised objections and sought project reviews. Maharashtra aims to develop the Mumbai Metropolitan Region into a major data centre investment hub.
NCP SPs Jayant Patil: No talks on merger with NCP
Bombay high court suo motu stays bail granted to Shiv Sena corporator in doctors assault case
Aamir Khan receives alleged threat from Lawrence Bishnoi gang, police verifying social media post
No formal complaint has been lodged by the actor or his representatives regarding the alleged threat so far
Man drowns in Tansa river near Vasai in Maharashtra
