News for '-holi'

Pak bombs terror camps in Afghanistan, claims to kill 70

Pak bombs terror camps in Afghanistan, claims to kill 70

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

Pakistan launched a military operation targeting terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan following a series of attacks, including a suicide bombing that killed Pakistani soldiers. The action comes after repeated calls for the Afghan Taliban to prevent terrorists from using Afghan soil to launch attacks against Pakistan.

After row, AMU says students can play Holi 'freely'

After row, AMU says students can play Holi 'freely'

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

Amid demands for allowing Holi celebration on the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) campus, its administration has decided that students can do so "freely" at the Non-Resident Students Centre Hall. The decision came after a controversy erupted when members of a right-wing group accused the university administration of denying permission to Hindu students to organize a 'Holi Milan' function on campus. However, the university administration clarified that the decision to allow Holi celebrations at the NRSC Hall was taken because of an AMU board examination scheduled for March 9. The administration further stated that March 10, 11, and 12 are working days and there will be classes, while March 13 and 14 are holidays, making them suitable for celebrations.

Bareilly ex-magistrate threatens Delhi stir over SC/ST Act

Bareilly ex-magistrate threatens Delhi stir over SC/ST Act

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

Alankar Agnihotri said several organisations of the upper-caste community would participate in the stir if the central government fails to withdraw the SC/ST Act by February 6.

Iran War Exposes Washington's Strategic Chaos

Iran War Exposes Washington's Strategic Chaos

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

What we are watching is something different: A fog manufactured and maintained by the people who started the war, so that the question of why it was started never has to be answered, observes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the war in the Middle East.

When I Attended The Bachchans' Holi Party

When I Attended The Bachchans' Holi Party

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

The Bachchan family have this knack of going out of their way to make you feel extremely comfortable.

Playing Holi? 9 Tips To Protect Your Skin, Hair

Playing Holi? 9 Tips To Protect Your Skin, Hair

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

We all love Holi but the festivity can damage our skin. Beauty expert Bhavya Sharma shares essential pre-Holi care tips to help protect your skin and hair.

Bollywood's Next Generation Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Ananya Panday, Suhana Khan, Shanaya Kapoor Get Another Year to Shine

Bollywood's Next Generation Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Ananya Panday, Suhana Khan, Shanaya Kapoor Get Another Year to Shine

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Ananya Panday, Suhana Khan and Shanaya Kapoor continue to shine in Bollywood in 2026, reinforcing their presence as the industry hunts for reliable next gen talent.

Holi, Friday namaaz pass off peacefully in Sambhal

Holi, Friday namaaz pass off peacefully in Sambhal

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Holi and Friday prayers passed peacefully in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh amid tight security, officials said.

Why Is Putin Celebrating Christmas Now?

Why Is Putin Celebrating Christmas Now?

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

President Vladimir Putin attended an early Wednesday Russian Orthodox Christmas service and hailed his troops' 'holy mission' to defend Russia, pairing the ceremony with a holiday address on unity, charity and support for the armed forces.

Flight tickets to be cheaper this Holi

Flight tickets to be cheaper this Holi

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

With only a few days to go before the country celebrates Holi, several airline companies offered discounts on fares on the occasion of the festival of colours. While two airlines are providing discounts on both domestic and international networks, another has the offer only for the domestic sector. Low-cost airline Akasa Air said it is offering an all-inclusive one-way fare starting at Rs 1,499 on domestic routes.

9-judge SC bench to hear Sabarimala women entry plea in April

9-judge SC bench to hear Sabarimala women entry plea in April

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has announced that a nine-judge bench will begin final hearings on petitions related to discrimination against women in religions, including the Sabarimala Temple case, starting April 7.

Archie and friends celebrate Holi in new comic book

Archie and friends celebrate Holi in new comic book

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Archie Comics has released a new story featuring the celebration of Holi in India. The 10-page story, titled "Celebration Surprise," appears in "The World of Betty & Veronica digest #38." Co-CEO of Archie Comic Publications Nancy Silberkleit said the story was inspired by her own experiences celebrating Holi in India and her desire to celebrate Om Arora, the owner of Delhi-based Variety Book Depot, who has been a long-time distributor of Archie Comics in India.

Sabarimala gold theft case: No HC relief for TDB ex-chief; pulls up SIT

Sabarimala gold theft case: No HC relief for TDB ex-chief; pulls up SIT

Rediff.com19 Dec 2025

The Kerala High Court denied bail to former TDB president N Vasu and others accused in the Sabarimala gold loss case, citing laxity in the investigation and potential impediment to the probe if bail is granted.

Muslim men can wear 'tarpaulin hijab' on Holi: UP minister

Muslim men can wear 'tarpaulin hijab' on Holi: UP minister

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

A BJP leader in Uttar Pradesh has sparked controversy by suggesting that Muslim men cover themselves with tarpaulins to avoid being sprinkled with colors on Holi. The remarks, made by Raghuraj Singh, come days after a police officer in Sambhal made similar comments. The festival of Holi coincides with the second Friday of the month of Ramzan this year, leading to concerns about potential clashes. The controversy has fueled tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities in the state, highlighting the sensitive nature of religious festivals in India.

'My character questioned': Influencer Harsha quits promoting Sanatan Dharma

'My character questioned': Influencer Harsha quits promoting Sanatan Dharma

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Influencer Harsha Richhariya, known for promoting Sanatan Dharma, has decided to step away from the religious path due to continuous criticism and mental stress.

Budget themes paint it as a reformative exercise

Budget themes paint it as a reformative exercise

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

The 2026-27 Budget, seeking to harmonise the government's imperative to grant certainty while ensuring a rational tax policy, had several notable announcements to usher in halcyon days, says Mukesh Butani.

Boong, The Manipur Film That Won A BAFTA

Boong, The Manipur Film That Won A BAFTA

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

'This story has been always there since my childhood because of missing people.' 'I remember a family member who disappeared and I kept wondering what happened to him.'

Holi celebrated at reopened Sambhal temple after 46 years

Holi celebrated at reopened Sambhal temple after 46 years

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Devotees celebrated Holi at the Kartikeya Mahadev Temple in Khaggu Sarai, Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh for the first time in 46 years. The temple, which was reopened last December after being closed since 1978, saw enthusiastic participation from social and Hindu organisations. The event was held under tight security following communal violence in the area in 2024.

What Sushma Seth, 89, Is Doing These Days

What Sushma Seth, 89, Is Doing These Days

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

'Despite acting in some 100 films and television plays, people still remember the daadi of Hum Log.'

'Are they playing Big Boss?': Cong on new BJP president

'Are they playing Big Boss?': Cong on new BJP president

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

The Congress party has criticized the BJP's appointment of Nitin Nabin as its new president, questioning the election process and mocking the role of the Election Commissioner.

No one can stop Holi celebrations inside AMU: Aligarh BJP MP

No one can stop Holi celebrations inside AMU: Aligarh BJP MP

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

Aligarh BJP MP Satish Gautam has sparked a controversy over the celebration of Holi at Aligarh Muslim University, declaring that "no one can stop anyone from celebrating Holi inside the AMU campus". The controversy erupted after members of right wing Hindu groups accused the AMU administration of denying permission to the Hindu students to organise a 'Holi Milan' function on campus. Gautam has extended his support to Hindu students, saying, "If any Hindu student faces any problem in celebrating Holi inside the campus, then I am there to help him."

Holi processions in Sambhal to end by 2:30 pm for Friday prayers

Holi processions in Sambhal to end by 2:30 pm for Friday prayers

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

The mosques in Aligarh and Jama Masjid in Sambhal were covered with tarpaulin sheets as a precautionary measure following a decision by the local administration.

Ajit Pawar's mid-air scare tale with Fadnavis resurfaces after death

Ajit Pawar's mid-air scare tale with Fadnavis resurfaces after death

Rediff.com28 Jan 2026

A video of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recounting a tense helicopter ride with Devendra Fadnavis in July 2024 has resurfaced after Pawar's death in a plane crash. Pawar humorously described his fear during the flight due to bad weather, while Fadnavis remained calm.

Cop who danced on Tej Pratap's order during Holi celebrations, shifted

Cop who danced on Tej Pratap's order during Holi celebrations, shifted

Rediff.com16 Mar 2025

Tej Pratap Yadav, an RJD leader and former Bihar minister, has been criticized for ordering his security guard to dance during Holi celebrations. The constable was sent to the police lines after he danced in uniform during the festivities at Yadav's residence. The incident has sparked controversy, with many criticizing Yadav's behavior. The incident also highlights the blurring of lines between personal and official duties in India, where politicians often use their positions to exert influence over subordinates.

BJP MP displays artificial legs in RS, appeals to Opposition

BJP MP displays artificial legs in RS, appeals to Opposition

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

BJP MP C Sadanandan Master addressed the Rajya Sabha, appealing for unity and highlighting the government's achievements while raising concerns about migration in Kerala.

Prez Murmu takes holy dip at Maha Kumbh

Prez Murmu takes holy dip at Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, is the world's largest spiritual and cultural gathering, attracting devotees from across the globe. It will continue until Mahashivratri on February 26.

Holi Or Jumma? Bihar Politicos Heat Up Festival Time

Holi Or Jumma? Bihar Politicos Heat Up Festival Time

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Ahead of Holi, controversial statements by leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and its ally Janata Dal-United in Bihar have heated up politics in the state which goes to the polls this winter.

Mosques covered for 'Laat Saheb' Holi procession in UP town

Mosques covered for 'Laat Saheb' Holi procession in UP town

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

The city of Shahjahanpur in India celebrates Holi with a unique procession called "Laat Saheb," where revellers hurl footwear at a man impersonating a British Lord. The tradition dates back to the 18th century and has evolved over time. The procession involves a seven-kilometer route, prayers at a temple, and a symbolic bribe offered to the police. The event is marked by strict security measures, including barricades, CCTV cameras, and the covering of mosques with tarpaulins. The procession is seen as a way to commemorate the city's history of freedom fighters and to discourage the British colonizers.

Kites, Til, Turmeric And Dancing: Makar Sankranti Across India

Kites, Til, Turmeric And Dancing: Makar Sankranti Across India

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Makar Sankranti is one of the year's first festivals of India. The country joyfully kicks off the year with a tapestry of colours and traditions: Gujarat's soaring kites. Punjab's blazing bonfires. Tamil Nadu's bubbling Pongal pot....

MP: Denied Holi celebration, college students take 150 hostage

MP: Denied Holi celebration, college students take 150 hostage

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

A college in Madhya Pradesh's Indore has expelled four student leaders after they were found guilty of holding 150 people, including the female principal and professors, hostage for denial of permission to a Holi programme on the campus, its top official said on Friday.

UP on high alert as Holi coincides with Friday namaaz; drones deployed

UP on high alert as Holi coincides with Friday namaaz; drones deployed

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Uttar Pradesh is on high alert as Holi coincides with Friday namaz, prompting authorities to implement additional security measures in the state, including enhanced patrolling, surveillance drones, and strict monitoring of social media. The decision follows controversial remarks made by some politicians and a police officer, raising concerns about potential incidents in mixed population localities. The administration has also decided to cover mosques to prevent them from being stained with colors, while several mosques have shifted the timing of Friday prayers.

Bihar mayor's '2-hr Holi break' for namaaz call sparks row

Bihar mayor's '2-hr Holi break' for namaaz call sparks row

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

The mayor of Darbhanga, Bihar, has sparked a controversy by suggesting a two-hour break in Holi celebrations to accommodate Friday prayers during Ramzan. Her proposal has drawn criticism from a BJP MLA, who accused her of calling for 'Ghazwa-e-Hind'. Meanwhile, other politicians have condemned the mayor's suggestion and emphasized the need for communal harmony.

Man beaten to death during Holi celebration over objection to loud music

Man beaten to death during Holi celebration over objection to loud music

Rediff.com16 Mar 2025

"Deepu Kewat was playing loud music on DJ (popular term for sound amplifiers) as part of Holi celebrations. His neighbour Shankar Kewat requested him to lower the volume since his children were studying for exams. In response, Deepu and five of his kin attacked Shankar and his family, including father Munna Kewat," he said.

President Murmu to take holy dip at Maha Kumbh today

President Murmu to take holy dip at Maha Kumbh today

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

President Droupadi Murmu will visit the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Monday and take a holy dip at the Sangam, her office said.

India rings in 2026 with prayers, parties

India rings in 2026 with prayers, parties

Rediff.com1 Jan 2026

Indians across the country welcomed the New Year 2026 with celebrations, religious observances, and gatherings at tourist spots. The President, Vice President, and Prime Minister extended greetings for peace and prosperity.

Noel Tata's mother Simone Tata passes away

Noel Tata's mother Simone Tata passes away

Rediff.com5 Dec 2025

Simone Tata, the mother of Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata, died in a Mumbai hospital on Friday after a brief illness. Simone, the stepmother of the late Ratan Tata, was 95.

Bareilly magistrate Alankar Agnihotri resigns over UGC rules, alleges 'anti-Brahmin campaign' in UP

Bareilly magistrate Alankar Agnihotri resigns over UGC rules, alleges 'anti-Brahmin campaign' in UP

Rediff.com27 Jan 2026

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has suspended Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri on charges of indiscipline after he resigned from service in protest against government policies.

Hyderabad Police's guidelines for Holi draw BJP's ire

Hyderabad Police's guidelines for Holi draw BJP's ire

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Hyderabad police have imposed restrictions on Holi celebrations, prohibiting group vehicle movement and throwing colors on unwilling individuals. BJP MLA Raja Singh criticized the notification, calling it a "Tughlaq farman " and accusing the Congress government of favoring a particular community. He questioned the lack of similar restrictions during Ramzan and alleged that the Congress government is anti-Hindu.

8 States Most Visited By Domestic Tourists

8 States Most Visited By Domestic Tourists

Rediff.com5 Jan 2026

These 8 states emerged as the country's most-travelled destinations for local Indian visitors, according to Ministry Of Tourism's most recent statistics which are from 2024.

When US Invaded Countries In The Americas

When US Invaded Countries In The Americas

Rediff.com5 Jan 2026

That a country thinks it has the right to randomly invade another country has repercussions that will for sure be played on the global arena in the years to come.