News for 'Culture Department'

Traffic Chaos: Woman's Fury Shakes Up BJP Rally

Traffic Chaos: Woman's Fury Shakes Up BJP Rally

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

A viral video of a woman confronting a Maharashtra minister over traffic jams caused by a BJP rally has sparked a backlash, forcing the ruling party to defend its actions and prompting apologies for the inconvenience caused to commuters.

Eminent historian K N Panikkar passes away at 90

Eminent historian K N Panikkar passes away at 90

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Eminent historian and academic K.N. Panikkar, known for his Marxist interpretation of history and advocacy for secularism, has passed away at the age of 90. His contributions to historical research and defence of secular values are widely recognised.

Transgender Icon Urges Amendment to Protect Independent Identities

Transgender Icon Urges Amendment to Protect Independent Identities

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Maya Thakur, a transgender icon, advocates for amendments to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026, to include self-identification and protect transgender individuals who wish to remain independent from traditional eunuch communities.

Afghan cricketers visit Kabul blast victims after deadly airstrikes

Afghan cricketers visit Kabul blast victims after deadly airstrikes

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Afghanistan national cricket team players visited injured civilians in Kabul hospitals after deadly airstrikes, as calls grow for an international investigation.

Noida International Airport Gears Up for Grand Opening

Noida International Airport Gears Up for Grand Opening

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Noida International Airport is set for its grand opening as roads are fixed and infrastructure preparations near completion. Here's what's ready and what to expect from the launch.

'People Voted In Anger Against Mamata Banerjee'

'People Voted In Anger Against Mamata Banerjee'

Rediff.com4 May 2026

'The nepotism, corruption, bad governance and 15 years of rampant crime that has happened across West Bengal under her rule led to her ouster.'

Gulf War: 'If America Wants An Exit, It Can'

Gulf War: 'If America Wants An Exit, It Can'

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

'US and Iran have not annulled the ceasefire, and the possibility of continuing negotiations remains open.'

Urged Modi in 2010 to conserve Great Indian Bustard: Jairam Ramesh

Urged Modi in 2010 to conserve Great Indian Bustard: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh recalls writing to Narendra Modi in 2010 about conserving the Great Indian Bustard, amid recent announcements of successful conservation efforts.

'Ashaji, Your Music Will Live On Forever'

'Ashaji, Your Music Will Live On Forever'

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

'Ashaji was unlike any other, a voice that defined not only one generation but across a span of cinematic universe! I was and have been the massive fan of her voice, her art, her personality...'

India Sends First Delegation to Youth Delphic Games

India Sends First Delegation to Youth Delphic Games

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

India is sending its first national delegation of youth artists to the Youth Delphic Games of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Member Nations in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Stunning Tableaux Dazzle Republic Day Parade

Stunning Tableaux Dazzle Republic Day Parade

Rediff.com26 Jan 2026

India's 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi featured vibrant tableau, representing the nation's cultural diversity and achievements.

Double-Decker Buses Set To Boost Delhi Tourism

Double-Decker Buses Set To Boost Delhi Tourism

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The 63-seater open-top bus, manufactured by Ashok Leyland's arm Switch Mobility, was gifted to the city's tourism department as a corporate social responsibility initiative.

Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala to Keralam

Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala to Keralam

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

The Union Cabinet has reportedly approved the Kerala government's proposal to officially change the state's name to Keralam, following a resolution passed by the Kerala Assembly.

Gujarat to amend marriage registration rules, minister flags 'love jihad'

Gujarat to amend marriage registration rules, minister flags 'love jihad'

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The Gujarat government plans to amend the Gujarat Registration of Marriages Act to address loopholes and prevent exploitation, particularly concerning "love jihad" cases. The proposed changes include mandatory parental notification and detailed information requirements for marriage registration.

Hormuz Blockade Is The New Battlefield

Hormuz Blockade Is The New Battlefield

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The clock on the ceasefire is running out. But everyone's already whispering about round two, possibly as soon as this weekend.

Didn't approve singing of Vande Mataram at schools: Omar

Didn't approve singing of Vande Mataram at schools: Omar

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that he did not authorize the celebration of the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' in schools, emphasizing the need for autonomy in governing the Union Territory and rejecting outside interference.

My Mother, Asha Bhosle

My Mother, Asha Bhosle

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Asha Bhosle's only daughter Varsha Bhosle, who died in 2012, had penned this beautiful ode to her mother.

Christmas event in Haridwar cancelled after Hindu groups protest

Christmas event in Haridwar cancelled after Hindu groups protest

Rediff.com23 Dec 2025

A Christmas event scheduled to be held at a hotel run by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar has been cancelled following objections from Hindu outfits, a hotel official said on Monday.

Kerala CM Discusses Gulf Crisis with Loka Kerala Sabha Members

Kerala CM Discusses Gulf Crisis with Loka Kerala Sabha Members

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan held an online meeting with Loka Kerala Sabha members in the Gulf region to discuss support for the expatriate community amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia.

Violence erupts during protest over Hadi's murder in B'desh; 50 hurt

Violence erupts during protest over Hadi's murder in B'desh; 50 hurt

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

Witnesses said the police in riot gear turned tough as the protestors tried to break through security barricades in front of Jamuna from a nearby sit-in demonstration, defying the earlier announced ban on rallies adjacent to Jamuna.

'Disastrous If US Halts War Leaving Iran Hardliners In Power'

'Disastrous If US Halts War Leaving Iran Hardliners In Power'

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

'In such a scenario, Iran could proclaim itself victor, rebuild, re-enforce its diminished regional proxies to further destabilise neighbouring nations and take control of the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz.'

77th Republic Day parade to witness many firsts

77th Republic Day parade to witness many firsts

Rediff.com17 Jan 2026

The upcoming Republic Day Parade will center around the sesquicentenary of 'Vande Mataram,' featuring themed decorations, performances, and special guests.

'Right To Die With Dignity Is A Fundamental Right'

'Right To Die With Dignity Is A Fundamental Right'

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

'Why can't we work towards a dignified end of the person when a cure is not possible and the end is inevitable?'

The Woman Behind The Fiery Theyyam Picture

The Woman Behind The Fiery Theyyam Picture

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

Chennai-based photographer Ramya Sriram explains how she captured the fiery and hypnotic Theyyam image that won her the National Geographic India Contest

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Assam To Honour 818 Young Writers

Assam To Honour 818 Young Writers

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

Books will be included as part of gifts at government functions, alongside the traditional gamusa, to underline the government's message that books must return to the centre of public life.

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey met in Islamabad in what analysts say is the formal opening of a new diplomatic formation that could reshape the post-war regional order. Their immediate goal is a ceasefire; their larger ambition is to ensure that neither Iran nor Israel emerges from this war in a dominant position. Pakistan's foreign minister then flew directly to Beijing and mooted a Chinese role as guarantor of any eventual agreement. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Another name change in Yogi's UP; Mustafabad to be renamed...

Another name change in Yogi's UP; Mustafabad to be renamed...

Rediff.com27 Oct 2025

Following the alleged molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore, a Madhya Pradesh minister advises players to inform local authorities when going out due to their popularity in India.

Another name change in Yogi's UP; Mustafabad to be renamed...

Another name change in Yogi's UP; Mustafabad to be renamed...

Rediff.com27 Oct 2025

Following the alleged molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore, a Madhya Pradesh minister advises players to inform local authorities when going out due to their popularity in India.

'This Isn't Day One Of AI; It Is Hour One'

'This Isn't Day One Of AI; It Is Hour One'

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

'When a technology is this fundamental, a country should have its own version of it, rather than relying on whether someone else chooses to build it for you.'

Lucknow earns UNESCO recognition for culinary heritage

Lucknow earns UNESCO recognition for culinary heritage

Rediff.com1 Nov 2025

Lucknow has been officially inducted into UNESCO's Creative Cities Network (CCN) under the 'Gastronomy' category, recognizing its culinary heritage.

Popular Odia music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar dies at 54

Popular Odia music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar dies at 54

Rediff.com25 Jan 2026

Popular Odia music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar passed away at the age of 54 while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. He had been suffering from hypertension, hypothyroidism, and chronic liver disease.

10-day Ganeshotsav begins in Maharashtra

10-day Ganeshotsav begins in Maharashtra

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

The 10-day Ganesh festival has begun in Maharashtra, with devotees welcoming Lord Ganesha into their homes and public pandals. The state government has declared the celebrations a state festival for the first time.

Boos, cheers and fireworks mark Milan Olympics opener

Boos, cheers and fireworks mark Milan Olympics opener

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony, showcasing Italian culture and athletic spirit, while also highlighting global political tensions through crowd reactions and protests.

Republic Day 2026: Op Sindoor, defence prowess displayed at 77th R-Day parade

Republic Day 2026: Op Sindoor, defence prowess displayed at 77th R-Day parade

Rediff.com26 Jan 2026

Around 100 artistes heralded the parade, on the theme 'Vividata Mein Ekta (Unity in Diversity) that featured a grand presentation of musical instruments, demonstrating the nation's unity and rich cultural diversity.

10 Human-Forward Work Skills You Must Master in 2026

10 Human-Forward Work Skills You Must Master in 2026

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

Here are ten human-forward skills that will quietly but decisively shape professional growth in 2026.

India, Israel upgrade ties to 'strategic partnership'; Modi backs Gaza peace

India, Israel upgrade ties to 'strategic partnership'; Modi backs Gaza peace

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

India and Israel have elevated their relationship to a special strategic partnership, focusing on enhanced cooperation in trade, technology, and defense, while also addressing regional peace initiatives.

Coming Soon! Prada's Made in India Kolhapuri Chappals

Coming Soon! Prada's Made in India Kolhapuri Chappals

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

Prada's Kolhapuri chappals will debut globally in February across 40 Prada stores and on the brand's e-commerce platform.

Typhoid outbreak in Gujarat's Gandhinagar, infections surge to 108

Typhoid outbreak in Gujarat's Gandhinagar, infections surge to 108

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

The number of suspected typhoid infections linked to a water pipeline leak in Gandhinagar has risen to 108. Authorities are working to resolve the issue and provide treatment.

Swing collapses at Surajkund fair in Faridabad, cop dies, operator held

Swing collapses at Surajkund fair in Faridabad, cop dies, operator held

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

The tragedy struck the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela on Saturday evening, when about 19 people were riding the swing before it suddenly tilted and then crashed onto the ground.