News for 'Diwali'

Illegal Firecracker Haul In Dwarka Ahead Of Diwali

Illegal Firecracker Haul In Dwarka Ahead Of Diwali

Rediff.com7 days ago

Delhi Police seized approximately 570 kg of illegal firecrackers from a residential premises in Dwarka, southwest Delhi, ahead of Diwali. A 79-year-old man was booked for storing the firecrackers for clandestine sale without a valid licence.

Diwali Muhurat Trading: NSE, BSE Set Special Session for Nov 8

Diwali Muhurat Trading: NSE, BSE Set Special Session for Nov 8

Rediff.com5 hours ago

Leading Indian stock exchanges, NSE and BSE, will conduct a special Muhurat trading session on Sunday, November 8, from 2:20 pm to 3:30 pm, to mark Diwali and the beginning of the new Hindu calendar year.

Rashmika, Athiya's Early Diwali Sparkle

Rashmika, Athiya's Early Diwali Sparkle

Rediff.com4 days ago

Swarovski's Diwali celebration in Mumbai transformed the city's festive glow into a full-blown fashion moment.

UPI MDR on transactions over Rs 2,000 deferred until after Diwali

UPI MDR on transactions over Rs 2,000 deferred until after Diwali

Rediff.com6 days ago

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has deferred the implementation of a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on Person-to-Merchant (P2M) UPI payments above Rs 2,000, originally set for October 15, until after Diwali.

Influencer asks for Diwali sweets online; gets TVs, fridges on COD

Influencer asks for Diwali sweets online; gets TVs, fridges on COD

Rediff.com6 days ago

Madurai-based content creator Veeramani faced an unprecedented ordeal, being forced to abandon his home after a simple online request for Deepavali sweets led to an overwhelming barrage of expensive cash-on-delivery pranks from mischievous followers.

Man Apprehended For Storing Illegal Firecrackers In Delhi

Man Apprehended For Storing Illegal Firecrackers In Delhi

Rediff.com3 days ago

Delhi Police seized 167.94 kg of illegal firecrackers from a house in Sangam Vihar and arrested a 34-year-old man for storing them without a licence. The seizure was part of a drive against illegal firecracker storage ahead of Diwali.

Amazon Now hits $1 billion annualised gross sales in India, eyes 100 cities by Diwali

Amazon Now hits $1 billion annualised gross sales in India, eyes 100 cities by Diwali

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Amazon's ultra-fast delivery service, Amazon Now, has achieved $1 billion in annualised gross sales in India over the last three months, marking it as the fastest-growing e-commerce business in Amazon India's history, with orders doubling every quarter.

Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'

Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A LinkedIn post by Pooja Sahu, detailing her husband Sourabh's sudden layoff from Oracle after 12 years of dedicated service, including working through holidays and even from a hospital, has gone viral, capturing the emotional toll of the tech giant's latest job cuts.

85% of Maha declared drought-hit; farmers to get Rs 5,000 aid

85% of Maha declared drought-hit; farmers to get Rs 5,000 aid

Rediff.com5 days ago

Maharashtra is grappling with an escalating drought crisis, with 305 talukas now declared drought-hit, prompting the state government to announce Rs 5,000 in financial aid for farmers before Diwali and extend comprehensive relief measures.

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Preparing For Another UPI U-Turn

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Preparing For Another UPI U-Turn

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Congress party has questioned the Modi government's decision to defer the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions, alleging a potential "U-turn on the U-turn." Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh highlighted previous denials by the finance minister regarding MDR imposition, only for it to be announced later and now deferred. He expressed concerns about future charges on UPI transactions.

NPCI Defers UPI MDR On Transactions Over Rs 2,000

NPCI Defers UPI MDR On Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Rediff.com6 days ago

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has deferred the implementation of a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on Person-to-Merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. Originally set for October 15, the new date will be announced after Diwali, providing relief to users and merchants, especially during the festive season. The decision came amidst opposition concerns about the levy burdening consumers.

Delhi traders urge Modi, Rahul, Kejriwal to defer protests till Jan 31

Delhi traders urge Modi, Rahul, Kejriwal to defer protests till Jan 31

Rediff.com3 days ago

Amid the ongoing protests in the national capital, the Bharatiya Udyog Vyapar Mandal (BUVM), Delhi Pradesh, has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, appealing for political demonstrations in the capital to be postponed until January 31, 2027, citing the festival and wedding season.

Mutual Funds Suspend Gold FoF Subscriptions Ahead of Festive Season

Mutual Funds Suspend Gold FoF Subscriptions Ahead of Festive Season

Rediff.com3 days ago

Over a dozen mutual fund houses in India have temporarily suspended fresh subscriptions in their gold fund of funds (FoFs) and gold-silver FoFs, a move believed to be influenced by directions from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) ahead of the festive season.

India's Largest Phenol-Acetone Plant Inaugurated In Haldia

India's Largest Phenol-Acetone Plant Inaugurated In Haldia

Rediff.com5 days ago

A new Rs 6,000 crore integrated phenol and acetone plant, India's largest, has been inaugurated in Haldia, West Bengal. Developed by Adperma Private Limited, a subsidiary of Haldia Petrochemicals Limited (HPL), the facility aims to reduce India's reliance on imported industrial chemicals and boost the domestic specialty chemicals sector. West Bengal's Chief Minister announced a new industrial policy following the inauguration.

Asian Games Gold Medallist Sujeet Kalkal Eyes 2028 Olympics Gold

Asian Games Gold Medallist Sujeet Kalkal Eyes 2028 Olympics Gold

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Asian Games gold medallist Sujeet Kalkal is focusing on improving his ground game, identified by coaches as a crucial area for his 2028 Los Angeles Olympics aspirations.

Alia's Pictures With Her 'Cutie'

Alia's Pictures With Her 'Cutie'

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Alia Bhatt's heartfelt birthday post for Ranbir Kapoor includes a glimpse of baby Raha.

Kerala Assembly Passes Motion Against UPI MDR

Kerala Assembly Passes Motion Against UPI MDR

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Kerala Legislative Assembly has passed a motion urging the central government to completely withdraw the proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000. Chief Minister V D Satheesan and CPI MLA K Rajan highlighted concerns that the MDR would increase business costs, harm small businesses, and reduce the appeal of digital payments, while the BJP argued it would not affect general public or small merchants.

Jailer 2 Leads Box Office, Nayyi Navelli-Prahaar Follow

Jailer 2 Leads Box Office, Nayyi Navelli-Prahaar Follow

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Rajinikanth's latest film Jailer 2 has defied expectations by achieving a remarkable score at the box office over its extended four-day weekend, despite a limited release and competition from new Bollywood offerings.

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Rediff.com6 days ago

Ramlila Maidan, recently designated as one of Delhi's new protest sites, is proving to be a costly and difficult option for demonstrators. With no free dates for the next two and a half months and booking fees exceeding Rs 1 lakh, it contrasts sharply with the previously free Jantar Mantar. The ground, rich in political history, also poses logistical challenges due to its busy commercial location and impact on traffic.

AC, TV, & Appliance Prices to Increase by Up to 8% from October 1

AC, TV, & Appliance Prices to Increase by Up to 8% from October 1

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Leading appliance and consumer electronics manufacturers are set to increase prices of air conditioners, LED TVs, washing machines, and other products by 5 to 8 per cent from October 1, citing rising input costs for metals like copper and steel, crude derivatives, and currency exchange volatility due to the West Asia crisis.

'Sonali, Tu Khoop Honest Aahe': Madhuri Hugs, Dances on KBC Marathi

'Sonali, Tu Khoop Honest Aahe': Madhuri Hugs, Dances on KBC Marathi

Rediff.com6 days ago

It was beautiful to watch two successful actors speak about their career and personal journeys -- the highs and lows -- with such mutual admiration, notes Divya Nair.

Nana Patekar's helping hand made this village 'tanker-free'

Nana Patekar's helping hand made this village 'tanker-free'

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Following the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar, a Maharashtra village, Dhondalgaon, recalls how his NAAM Foundation funded a water conservation project ten years ago, transforming it from a drought-prone area to a 'tanker-free' and economically thriving community. The project, which involved desilting barrages, boosted agriculture and dairy farming, and eliminated farmer suicides.

Meet American Singer Mary Millben, Modi Supporter

Meet American Singer Mary Millben, Modi Supporter

Rediff.com4 days ago

American singer Mary Millben has become a prominent figure in Indian political discourse due to her outspoken support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, using social media to defend him against critics and appeal to young Indians, despite her musical career being less known in the country.

Ramayana: When MrBeast Met Lord Ram!

Ramayana: When MrBeast Met Lord Ram!

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Ramayana event was a mixed bag. Here's why.

Passenger Vehicle Sales Jump 21% in September, Driven by Festive Demand

Passenger Vehicle Sales Jump 21% in September, Driven by Festive Demand

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Domestic passenger vehicle dispatches in India are estimated to have grown by approximately 21 per cent to 4.60 lakh units in September, with major carmakers like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, M&M, and Hyundai all reporting double-digit growth, driven by increased supplies for the upcoming peak festival season and healthy demand.

Ajay Devgn's 10 Biggest Openings At Box Office

Ajay Devgn's 10 Biggest Openings At Box Office

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Drishyam - The Conclusion has made history by becoming Ajay Devgn's biggest box office opener with an astounding Rs 62.03 crores, also securing a spot among the Top-5 Bollywood openers of all time.

India's Archery Prodigy Kumkum Mohod Aims For Olympic Glory

India's Archery Prodigy Kumkum Mohod Aims For Olympic Glory

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Teenaged Indian archer Kumkum Mohod made history at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games by winning India's first-ever women's individual recurve archery gold medal and securing an Olympic quota place. Her coach and association secretary highlight her dedication, academic inclination, and long-term goal of winning an Olympic medal, despite financial challenges.

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Digital money is gradually starting to behave like software. It's no longer inert -- sitting passively in accounts. In the not-so-distant future, your money could become 'smart' and 'active,' understanding your preferences, paying your bills automatically, optimising your returns, and managing your risks -- all without you having to manage the details.

Drought grips 74% of Maharashtra as 265 talukas declared affected

Drought grips 74% of Maharashtra as 265 talukas declared affected

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Maharashtra government has declared 265 out of 358 talukas as drought-affected, covering 74% of the state, due to significant rainfall deficit. This declaration activates 'Trigger-1' of the state's drought management framework, leading to the announcement of various relief measures for farmers and residents, including loan restructuring, revenue concessions, and provisions for water and fodder.

FMCG firms to hold prices through festive season despite rising commodity costs

FMCG firms to hold prices through festive season despite rising commodity costs

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies in India are committed to maintaining current prices through the festive season, despite facing increased commodity costs and geopolitical disruptions. This strategy aims to protect consumer demand and sustain volume growth, even as margins remain under pressure.

Maha FDA unveils permanent food safety calendar for festivals

Maha FDA unveils permanent food safety calendar for festivals

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced a permanent, year-round food safety calendar to ensure public health during major festivals. This first-of-its-kind initiative categorises festivals into three levels and implements a four-stage inspection mechanism, focusing on preventing adulteration and unsafe food practices for high-demand products like sweets, dairy, and edible oils.

India, China armies hold crucial talks on LAC in Arunachal sector

India, China armies hold crucial talks on LAC in Arunachal sector

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Indian and Chinese military officials have held corps commander-level talks in Arunachal Pradesh to review the Line of Actual Control (LAC) situation, following recent Special Representative discussions aimed at de-escalating border tensions and fostering bilateral ties.

Daayra Review: Potent Kareena, Prithviraj

Daayra Review: Potent Kareena, Prithviraj

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Its unresolved, noncommittal conclusion is exactly the sort of anticlimactic reality Daayra wants to bring our attention to. Neither justice nor revenge can undo the fate met by the world's Nirbhayas or Arushis, observes Sukanya Verma.

Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor's Vacation With Daughter Raha

Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor's Vacation With Daughter Raha

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Alia Bhatt delighted her fans by sharing a collection of vacation photos with her husband Ranbir Kapoor and their adorable daughter Raha.

'Hope Music Of Ramayana Matches Music Of Adipurush'

'Hope Music Of Ramayana Matches Music Of Adipurush'

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

'It is better not to compare Ramayana with Adipurush. There should be no shame in admitting that Adipurush couldn't meet expectations. People who are associated with the film made it with a lot of effort, but it was a failed attempt.'

Ranbir To Attend Ramayana Launch Despite Conjunctivitis

Ranbir To Attend Ramayana Launch Despite Conjunctivitis

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Despite contracting conjunctivitis, Ranbir Kapoor is set to attend the grand trailer launch of Ramayana: Pratham Sankalp in New Delhi, marking the beginning of promotions for the highly anticipated two-part epic.

Triple whammy for Mumbaikars: Milk, CNG, taxi-auto fares rise

Triple whammy for Mumbaikars: Milk, CNG, taxi-auto fares rise

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Mumbaikars are set to face a significant financial burden as the prices of milk, CNG, and taxi-rickshaw fares have all seen a substantial increase from September 1, 2026, impacting household budgets ahead of the crucial festive season.

India imposes sugar stock limits on bulk consumers to curb price rise

India imposes sugar stock limits on bulk consumers to curb price rise

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Indian government has imposed stockholding limits on bulk sugar consumers, restricting them to a 15-day supply if they use over 10 tonnes monthly, effective September 1 to November 30, to stabilise prices ahead of the festival season.

Carmakers ramp up production for festive season, but high base and inventory risks loom

Carmakers ramp up production for festive season, but high base and inventory risks loom

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Indian passenger vehicle manufacturers are significantly increasing production and stocking dealerships in anticipation of strong festival season demand, with new launches planned and supply bottlenecks being addressed. However, the industry faces potential moderation in growth during the second half of FY27 due to a high base from last year's post-GST surge, commodity inflation, and elevated inventory levels.

Shubman Gill's Sister Shahneel Gill Set For The Traitors 2

Shubman Gill's Sister Shahneel Gill Set For The Traitors 2

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Shahneel has 450,000 followers on Instagram, and her account is mainly focused on travel and lifestyle.