News for 'Ayodhya'

PHOTOS: Diwali arrives early in Ayodhya, people light lamps

PHOTOS: Diwali arrives early in Ayodhya, people light lamps

Rediff.com6 Aug 2020

The road leading from Hanumangarhi to Naya Ghat wore an illuminated look in the evening, with several earthen lamps lit outside shops, houses, guest houses and dharamshalas.

Academician-turned-bizman from UP shot dead in US; kin suspect rivals

Academician-turned-bizman from UP shot dead in US; kin suspect rivals

Rediff.com21 Nov 2024

Dr. Shriram Singh, a 58-year-old Indian academic and entrepreneur, was shot and killed in Atlanta, Georgia. His family suspects business rivalry may be behind the murder. Dr. Singh, a native of Gonda, India, had been living in the US for nearly four decades and had built a successful business empire. His family is seeking justice and security after his tragic death.

Yogi holds cabinet meet at Maha Kumbh, takes holy dip at Sangam

Yogi holds cabinet meet at Maha Kumbh, takes holy dip at Sangam

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

The Cabinet meeting and the holy dip comes on a day that marks the first anniversary of the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to be ready by Jan 1, 2024: Amit Shah

Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to be ready by Jan 1, 2024: Amit Shah

Rediff.com6 Jan 2023

Addressing a public rally in Sabroom in poll-bound Tripura, Shah said that the Congress and the Communist Party of India-Marxist had put the Ram Mandir issue in the jurisdiction of the court for long, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for it after the Supreme Court's order.

Adityanath backs HC judge whose speech at VHP event triggered row

Adityanath backs HC judge whose speech at VHP event triggered row

Rediff.com15 Dec 2024

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has hit out at the Opposition for initiating impeachment notices against Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Allahabad high court's Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, saying 'whoever speaks the truth' is threatened in this way.

Maha Kumbh: Record turnout expected for first 'amrit snan' on Tuesday

Maha Kumbh: Record turnout expected for first 'amrit snan' on Tuesday

Rediff.com14 Jan 2025

A record number of devotees are expected to take part in the first 'Amrit Snan' of the Maha Kumbh Mela on Tuesday, coinciding with Makar Sankranti. The event is significant as it marks the participation of the 'Akharas' and is also the first 'snan' after the grand Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates a total of 35 crore devotees visiting Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela.

7 held for sacrilege at Ayodhya mosques in a bid to incite riots

7 held for sacrilege at Ayodhya mosques in a bid to incite riots

Rediff.com29 Apr 2022

The arrested belong to an outfit called the 'Hindu Yodha Sangathan', and the leader of the group is a history-sheeter with four criminal cases registered against him, police said.

2 UP officials dedicate their chairs to Lord Ram

2 UP officials dedicate their chairs to Lord Ram

Rediff.com7 Nov 2024

Seema Devi (53), who heads the Gadwara nagar panchayat, and Shesha Devi (65), the Sadar block head -- feel that they won the elections with the god's blessings, so they have decided to dedicate theirs chair to him, according to their supporters.

3-judge SC bench to hear pleas on Places of Worship Act on Thursday

3-judge SC bench to hear pleas on Places of Worship Act on Thursday

Rediff.com11 Dec 2024

The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear a batch of petitions challenging the validity of certain provisions of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits lawsuits to reclaim a place of worship or change its character from what prevailed on August 15, 1947. The pleas, including one filed by Ashwini Upadhyay, argue that these provisions violate the right to judicial remedy and create an arbitrary cut-off date. The matter will be heard in the backdrop of several ongoing cases related to places of worship, including the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and the Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura. The Muslim side has cited the 1991 law to argue that such suits are not maintainable. The Supreme Court had previously sought the Centre's response to Upadhyay's petition, which alleged that the law creates an "arbitrary and irrational retrospective cut-off date" for maintaining the character of places of worship.

70,000 cops turn Ayodhya into fortress

70,000 cops turn Ayodhya into fortress

Rediff.com24 Nov 2018

Drone cameras will monitor the crowds in real time.

Govt sets up dedicated desk on Ayodhya

Govt sets up dedicated desk on Ayodhya

Rediff.com2 Jan 2020

The move bears significance in the wake of November 9 judgement of the Supreme Court which allowed construction of a Ram Temple in the disputed site in Ayodha.

Ayodhya on edge; elaborate security across country

Ayodhya on edge; elaborate security across country

Rediff.com8 Nov 2019

Authorities said social media posts will be monitored to ensure that no attempt is made to vitiate the atmosphere.

Rituals begin in Ayodhya ahead of Ram Temple event

Rituals begin in Ayodhya ahead of Ram Temple event

Rediff.com3 Aug 2020

Adityanath spent hours reviewing the arrangements for the ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi, where the temple will be constructed following the go-ahead last year by the Supreme Court.

Archaeologist B B Lal, who unearthed Ram Temple at Ayodhya, passes away

Archaeologist B B Lal, who unearthed Ram Temple at Ayodhya, passes away

Rediff.com10 Sep 2022

Lal was the director general of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and had found temple-like pillars during excavation at the Ayodhya site where the Ram temple is now being built. Officials said that he was one of the youngest directors general of ASI and served from 1968 to 1972.

From Ayodhya to adultery: CJI Chandrachud's landmark verdicts

From Ayodhya to adultery: CJI Chandrachud's landmark verdicts

Rediff.com9 Nov 2022

Counted as a judge who enriched the 'verdict docket' of the apex court, Justice Chandrachud is viewed as sharp, articulate and forward looking.

Win MP govt's Ramayana quiz, get air ticket to Ayodhya

Win MP govt's Ramayana quiz, get air ticket to Ayodhya

Rediff.com18 Oct 2021

A general knowledge competition based on the 'Ramayana' will be organised at national and international levels, an official statement on Sunday said quoting the minister.

Why INDIA bloc to fight UP bypolls on 'cycle' symbol

Why INDIA bloc to fight UP bypolls on 'cycle' symbol

Rediff.com24 Oct 2024

Akhilesh said the alliance's decision was not informed by any seat-sharing math but its pursuit of victory.

Can rising temple-mosque disputes shape UP polls in 2027?

Can rising temple-mosque disputes shape UP polls in 2027?

Rediff.com29 Dec 2024

With the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls scheduled for 2027, political experts are observing an increasing trend of temple-mosque disputes in the state, leading to heightened polarization. Recent bypolls saw the use of divisive slogans, and analysts believe this trend will intensify as the 2027 elections approach. The recent surge in claims about the existence of Hindu temples at the sites of mosques in various cities has fueled this polarization. The BJP-led government has been accused of promoting communal polarization, while opposition parties like the SP have criticized the ruling party's actions. The RSS chief has called for restraint in raising new temple-related disputes. Experts predict that communal polarization is likely to escalate in the coming days.

Ram temple darshan timings extended amid huge rush

Ram temple darshan timings extended amid huge rush

Rediff.com25 Jan 2024

The extended timing to offer prayers at the new Ram temple in Ayodhya came into effect on Thursday with 'darshan' being allowed from 6 am as key roads leading to the temple town remained closed to regulate vehicular movement.

Muslim bodies spar over legality of Ayodhya's upcoming mosque

Muslim bodies spar over legality of Ayodhya's upcoming mosque

Rediff.com23 Dec 2020

AIMPLB member Zafaryab Jilani on Wednesday said the proposed mosque in Ayodhya following last year's Supreme Court verdict is against the Waqf Act and 'illegal' under the Shariat laws.

PM performs 'bhoomi pujan' for Ram temple in Ayodhya

PM performs 'bhoomi pujan' for Ram temple in Ayodhya

Rediff.com6 Aug 2020

The event brings to fruition the Bharatiya Janata Party's 'mandir' movement that defined its politics for three decades and took it to the heights of power.

HC rejects plea claiming ownership of land for Ayodhya mosque

HC rejects plea claiming ownership of land for Ayodhya mosque

Rediff.com8 Feb 2021

The Allahabad high court on Monday dismissed a petition filed against the allotment of land in Ayodhya's Dhannipur village for the construction of a mosque, following the Supreme Court verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute.

'Unfortunate' to refer to Gyanvapi as mosque: UP CM

'Unfortunate' to refer to Gyanvapi as mosque: UP CM

Rediff.com14 Sep 2024

The Gyanvapi issue has been at the centre of a long-drawn legal battle with the Hindu side arguing that the Gyanvapi mosque was allegedly built on the remains of a pre-existing temple, while the Muslim side has contested the claim.

Will BCCI Give Kohli Permission For...

Will BCCI Give Kohli Permission For...

Rediff.com17 Jan 2024

Virat Kohli has sought the BCCI's permission to attend the ceremony in Ayodhya, which is three days ahead of the opening Test against England in Hyderabad on January 25.

UP using drones for surveillance in Ayodhya

UP using drones for surveillance in Ayodhya

Rediff.com8 Nov 2019

RSS to interact with Muslim professionals ahead of Ayodhya verdict.

After fulfilling Ayodhya, Kashi promises, work has begun in Mathura: Yogi

After fulfilling Ayodhya, Kashi promises, work has begun in Mathura: Yogi

Rediff.com30 Dec 2021

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that after fulfilling Bharatiya Janata Party's poll promise on Ram Temple construction in Ayodhya, work has begun in Mathura and Vrindavan as well.

Bengaluru caf blast: NIA charges 4, says BJP office was first target

Bengaluru caf blast: NIA charges 4, says BJP office was first target

Rediff.com9 Sep 2024

It said two of the key accused were Islamic State of Iraq and Syria radicals, who used fraudulently obtained "Indian SIM cards and Indian bank accounts" besides "various Indian and Bangladeshi Identity documents downloaded from the dark web (which is accessible only through specialised browsers) in carrying out their nefarious activities.

Art 370 won't be restored even if Indira Gandhi returns: Amit Shah

Art 370 won't be restored even if Indira Gandhi returns: Amit Shah

Rediff.com13 Nov 2024

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday asserted that Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, will not be restored even if Congress stalwart and late PM Indira Gandhi comes down from heaven.

RSS-linked magazine contradicts Bhagwat on Sambhal dispute

RSS-linked magazine contradicts Bhagwat on Sambhal dispute

Rediff.com26 Dec 2024

The latest issue of "Organiser", an RSS-linked magazine, has argued that the ongoing dispute over the Shri Harihar Mandir in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, is not about religious supremacy but about seeking "civilisational justice" by uncovering historical truth. The editorial, penned by Prafulla Ketkar, editor of "Organiser", contends that the debate should not be limited to a Hindu-Muslim perspective but should encompass a wider discussion on historical truths and social justice. The magazine further criticizes the Congress's handling of caste and religious issues, accusing it of whitewashing historical injustices and promoting a false narrative about Mughal rulers.

With crackers and sweets, India celebrates Ayodhya bhoomi pujan

With crackers and sweets, India celebrates Ayodhya bhoomi pujan

Rediff.com6 Aug 2020

The excitement on the foundation laying ceremony of Ram Temple reverberated across the country as Ram bhakts gathered to to celebrate the groundbreaking occasion. People across the country were seen chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' and waving saffron flags. Fireworks were also burst and sweets were distributed to mark the day.

Meet the members of Ayodhya Ram temple trust

Meet the members of Ayodhya Ram temple trust

Rediff.com6 Feb 2020

The government on Wednesday named nine out of 15 members of the 'Shri Ram Janambhoomi Teertha Kshetra' trust constituted for the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya as mandated by the Supreme Court. Here's all you need to know about the members of the trust who have been named so far.

Glued to TV sets, Ayodhya relives 'Ramayana' days

Glued to TV sets, Ayodhya relives 'Ramayana' days

Rediff.com5 Aug 2020

Some jewellery shops in the famous Shringaar Haat area turned into places for community television spots as passers-by and even some security personnel and mediapersons joined shopkeepers to watch the live telecast of 'bhoomi poojan' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the temple and his speech. Many recalled that these scenes were similar to ones quite common in late 1980s when 'Ramayana' serial was telecast on Doordarshan and people used to gather at few houses and shops having TV sets.

Revealed: How the Ayodhya dispute was almost solved

Revealed: How the Ayodhya dispute was almost solved

Rediff.com14 Mar 2019

'Chandra Shekhar used to say that some people may oppose such a decision from their mouth, but all will accept it from their heart as the best solution to the dispute.'

'Bharat' Atishi Is In Charge!

'Bharat' Atishi Is In Charge!

Rediff.com25 Sep 2024

What some of our politicians were up to on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

Why are Debina and Gurmeet in Ayodhya?

Why are Debina and Gurmeet in Ayodhya?

Rediff.com18 Feb 2021

Seen Anil Kapoor like this? What is Rana celebrating?

35 cr pilgrims may attend Maha Kumbh Mela: UP govt

35 cr pilgrims may attend Maha Kumbh Mela: UP govt

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government is expecting over 35 crore pilgrims to attend the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, a significant increase from the 24 crore who attended the 2019 Kumbh Mela. The event, which will take place over 45 days, will feature extensive security and sanitation measures, as well as a digital component. The state government has allocated Rs 7,000 crore for the event.

ASI surveys newly discovered temple, wells, pilgrimage sites in Sambhal

ASI surveys newly discovered temple, wells, pilgrimage sites in Sambhal

Rediff.com20 Dec 2024

A four-member team from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a survey of the recently-discovered Shri Kartik Mahadev temple, five pilgrimage sites, and 19 wells in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India. The survey followed the discovery of three damaged idols inside a well of the Bhasma Shankar temple, which was reopened after being shut for 46 years. The Shri Kartik Mahadev temple, also known as the Bhasma Shankar temple, was reopened on December 13 after authorities found the covered structure during an anti-encroachment drive. The temple houses an idol of Lord Hanuman and a Shivling and had remained locked since 1978. The district administration has requested carbon dating of the temple, including the well, from the ASI. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has restrained courts across India from entertaining new lawsuits or passing any orders in pending ones seeking to reclaim religious places, especially mosques and dargahs, until further notice. This action halts proceedings in approximately 18 lawsuits filed by Hindu parties seeking surveys to determine the original religious character of 10 mosques, including the Gyanvapi at Varanasi, the Shahi Idgah Masjid at Mathura, and the Shahi Jama Masjid at Sambhal, where four individuals died in clashes. The Supreme Court will examine the legality, scope, and boundaries of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits the conversion of places of worship and ensures the preservation of their religious character as it existed on August 15, 1947.

Complaint against Salman Khurshid for defaming Hinduism in his Ayodhya book

Complaint against Salman Khurshid for defaming Hinduism in his Ayodhya book

Rediff.com11 Nov 2021

Former Union Minister and Congress leader Salman Khurshid is facing legal issues with the release of his book, Sunrise over Ayodhya -- Nationhood in our times. Two Delhi lawyers have filed complaints with Delhi Police against Khurshid, for allegedly defaming and comparing Hinduism with terrorism in his book.

Brilliant! A Toy Themed GaneshUtsav

Brilliant! A Toy Themed GaneshUtsav

Rediff.com12 Sep 2024

You can e-mail your pictures to getahead@rediff.co.in (My Lord Ganesha Pix) with your name, location, details about your Lord Ganesha and what this festival means to you. We will publish the best entries right here on Rediff.com.

PIX: Ayodhya lights up for Ram's 'homecoming'; breaks world record

PIX: Ayodhya lights up for Ram's 'homecoming'; breaks world record

Rediff.com14 Nov 2020

As dusk fell, volunteers lit up nearly six lakh diyas lined up on the Saryu riverbank. 'Representatives of the Guinness Book of World Records witnessed this grand festival. With 5,84,372 earthen lamps, the event made the world record,' a state government statement said.