News for 'Festival of India'

Modi lays roadmap for India's fintech companies

Modi lays roadmap for India's fintech companies

Rediff.com30 Aug 2024

He said the transformation brought about by the fintech sector in India is not just limited to technology, but its social impact is far-reaching. He also stressed that fintech has dented the parallel economy and is bridging the gap between villages and cities on the financial services front. The prime minister also said that in the last 10 years, the fintech space has attracted investments of more than $31 billion and fintech startups have grown by 500 per cent.

Modi calls Maha Kumbh 'Maha Yagya of unity', hails UP govt

Modi calls Maha Kumbh 'Maha Yagya of unity', hails UP govt

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government has said that over 65 crore people visited the sacred site in Prayagraj since the Maha Kumbh began on January 13.

From Alps To Underwater Vows, Weddings Turn Extravagant & Unique

From Alps To Underwater Vows, Weddings Turn Extravagant & Unique

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

There's clearly no limit to how dramatic a wedding can be.

All We Imagine As Light Gets Critics Choice Awards Nom

All We Imagine As Light Gets Critics Choice Awards Nom

Rediff.com13 Dec 2024

Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light continues to shine on the global stage.

Rural markets drive FMCG sector; outpace urban areas

Rural markets drive FMCG sector; outpace urban areas

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

The FMCG industry in India achieved a 10.6% growth in value terms in the December quarter of 2024, driven largely by rural markets, which have surpassed the large urban markets in growth for the fourth consecutive quarter. Festive demand and consumption-driven growth played a key role, with overall volume up 7.1% despite inflationary pressures. However, the industry also saw a "preference shift of consumers towards smaller packs" due to high food inflation. Local manufacturers continue to outperform larger FMCG companies, fueled by consistent volume growth.

OTT Expands The Geography Of Storytelling

OTT Expands The Geography Of Storytelling

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Writers and creators are telling more authentic stories based in states and cities that we may not have seen much of in mainstream media, such as Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. Or ones that we have some mistaken notions about like Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, highlights Vanita Kohli-Khandekar.

'We Sometimes Underestimate Our Parents'

'We Sometimes Underestimate Our Parents'

Rediff.com4 Feb 2025

'But when we actually express ourselves, sometimes our parents can surprise us, because they just love their children.' 'Sometimes it's just that simple. That is what I wanted to show in this film.'

World champ Gukesh becomes highest ranked Indian

World champ Gukesh becomes highest ranked Indian

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

Norway's Magnus Carlsen continues to be the undisputed world No.1 with 2832.5 points, followed by United States' Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura (2802) and country-mate Fabiano Caruana (2798).

'Maha Kumbh is not a hub of glamour and 5-star culture'

'Maha Kumbh is not a hub of glamour and 5-star culture'

Rediff.com9 Feb 2025

Since the beginning of the Maha Kumbh last month, many influencers, models and actors have had their brief moment in the sun of virality: model-turned-sadhvi Harsha Richaria, garland seller Mona Lisa, 'IIT baba' Abhay Singh and actor Mamata Kulkarni to name a few.

BJP sweeps Haryana civic polls, big setback for Cong

BJP sweeps Haryana civic polls, big setback for Cong

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

The BJP registered emphatic victories in seven municipal corporations in Haryana, while its nominees were leading in two other civic bodies in the recently held elections. The Congress, which was hoping to improve its electoral fortunes after a defeat in the 2024 Assembly polls, suffered another setback. The BJP candidates won with large margins in Faridabad, Gurugram, Hisar, Karnal, Rohtak, Sonipat, and Ambala. The BJP was also leading in Yamunanagar and Panipat. In Manesar, an Independent candidate, Inderjeet Yadav, won the mayoral election. The results are seen as a major setback for the Congress, which has been facing internal turmoil and factionalism.

'I Was Thinking Of Quitting Acting'

'I Was Thinking Of Quitting Acting'

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

'I hadn't worked for three-and-a-half years.' 'I felt industry was based on who you knew.' 'I didn't belong to a network.'

Auto retail sales up 11.21% in Nov riding on two-wheeler demand: FADA

Auto retail sales up 11.21% in Nov riding on two-wheeler demand: FADA

Rediff.com9 Dec 2024

Retail sales of vehicles across categories in India grew by 11.21 per cent at 32,08,719 units in November, as compared to 28,85,317 units in the same month last year riding on two-wheeler demand, Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations said in Monday. Retail sales of two-wheelers were at 26,15,953 units last month, as compared to 22,58,970 units in November 2023, a growth of 15.8 per cent buoyed by the festive spillover.

Delhi records over 60% voter turnout amid fake voting charges

Delhi records over 60% voter turnout amid fake voting charges

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

Delhi recorded a voter turnout of over 19 per cent in the first four hours of polling on Wednesday across 70 assembly constituencies, with the highest voter participation witnessed in North East district.

Private consumption is back; to boost economy: RBI Bulletin

Private consumption is back; to boost economy: RBI Bulletin

Rediff.com20 Nov 2024

Private consumption is back driven by festive spending, and the medium-term economic outlook remains bullish as the innate strength of the macro-fundamentals reasserts itself, the Reserve Bank Bulletin said on Wednesday. Global economic activity remained resilient during Q4:2024 amidst fragile confidence and rising protectionism, said an article on 'State of the Economy' published in the November Bulletin.

Goodbye Bappa, Says India

Goodbye Bappa, Says India

Rediff.com18 Sep 2024

Across the nation, Lord Ganeshas large and small make their way to the sea, to lakes, ponds or man-made water bodies where the Visarjan ceremony takes place.

Does Modi Want Sharad Pawar On His Side?

Does Modi Want Sharad Pawar On His Side?

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

Political sources say Modi is 'keen' on getting the NCP (SP) over to the Mahayuti to counter Eknath Shinde's 'demands' and to act as a cushion against his present allies, Nitish Kumar and N Chandrababu Naidu, 'in case their relationship became untenable'.

'Nobody Has The Right To Criticise My Dance Because Of My Skin Colour'

'Nobody Has The Right To Criticise My Dance Because Of My Skin Colour'

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

This is the story of a man who fought racism and casteism throughout his life to become a professor of Bharata Natyam at the premier centre for performing arts in India, the Kerala Kalamandalam.

Consumer firms see double-digit growth on festive shopping

Consumer firms see double-digit growth on festive shopping

Rediff.com1 Nov 2023

Consumer durables firms and fashion retailers expect double-digit growth in value terms in the ongoing festival season as consumers have stepped up purchases during this period. They expect to see value sales growth upwards of 15 per cent, which is especially coming in from cities. However, volume growth may lag behind value growth.

IIT Madras director's cow urine remark sparks row; apology demanded

IIT Madras director's cow urine remark sparks row; apology demanded

Rediff.com19 Jan 2025

The director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, V Kamakoti, has sparked controversy after making a remark about the "medicinal value" of cow urine, or "gomutra." Kamakoti, while speaking at an event celebrating Maatu Pongal (a festival dedicated to cows and bulls), cited an anecdote about a sanyasi who was cured of a fever by consuming gomutra. He also claimed that gomutra has "anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive properties." The remark has been widely condemned by rationalist organizations, political leaders, and medical professionals who have criticized Kamakoti's statements as "pseudoscience" and "regressive." The controversy highlights the ongoing debate in India around traditional beliefs and scientific evidence.

'Systematic pattern': India on attack on temples in B'desh

'Systematic pattern': India on attack on temples in B'desh

Rediff.com12 Oct 2024

The MEA has taken strong exception to the two reported incidents in Bangladesh.

Indo-Bangla talks: What BSF, BGB have discussed on Day 1

Indo-Bangla talks: What BSF, BGB have discussed on Day 1

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

The Director General of Bangladesh's Border Guard (BGB), Maj Gen Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, has denied reports of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024, calling them "exaggerated." He cited the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja as evidence and pointed to the security provided by BGB to minority communities. The BGB also raised objections to India's fencing along the border during the bi-annual talks with the BSF.

Diwali Shopping Still Sluggish

Diwali Shopping Still Sluggish

Rediff.com24 Oct 2024

While there was a 6 to 7 per cent increase in volume compared to last year in the first few days of the month which coincided with festivals, a large part of the demand is yet to hit the market.

'In quest for moksha': Foreigners take dip in Sangam

'In quest for moksha': Foreigners take dip in Sangam

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

Among a sea of humanity that took the holy dip in the Sangam in their quest for 'moksha' on Monday was a large number of overseas visitors, soaking in the spiritual fervour at the world's largest gathering of humans.

'If There Was A Stock Market For Love, This Was The Bull Run'

'If There Was A Stock Market For Love, This Was The Bull Run'

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

'We saw 581 chocolate orders per minute and 324 rose orders per minute.'

Foreign secretary Misri reaches Beijing for talks with Chinese officials

Foreign secretary Misri reaches Beijing for talks with Chinese officials

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has arrived in Beijing for a two-day visit during which he will hold talks with Chinese officials. The visit comes amid ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and to resume bilateral cooperation in various fields, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

99 And Seven Decimal Points

99 And Seven Decimal Points

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

'Does 99 percent guarantee character and capacity for an independent awareness of life or does it make you -- barring exceptions -- a compliant careerist beholden to governments and corporations?' 'What kind of political and social choices would such minds make?' asks Shyam G Menon.

SC defers hearing on pleas against CEC appointment as per 2023 law

SC defers hearing on pleas against CEC appointment as per 2023 law

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court has adjourned pleas challenging the appointments of the chief election commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (ECs) under the 2023 law. The court indicated the matter would be listed after the Holi festival break due to a paucity of time. Petitioners, including the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms, argued for an urgent hearing, emphasizing the importance of the issue and the potential impact on democratic processes. The appointment of the new CEC and ECs under the 2023 law, which excludes the Chief Justice of India from the selection panel, has been a point of contention, with petitioners alleging it undermines the independence of the election commission.

Qcom industry may add 150,000 gig workers in 2025

Qcom industry may add 150,000 gig workers in 2025

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

Quick commerce (qcom) industry is poised to lead gig workforce hiring in 2025, propelled by a surge in demand for faster deliveries, expansion by existing players, entry of new competitors, and evolving consumer preferences in the post-pandemic era, according to industry experts. The qcom industry currently employs nearly 260,000 people - around 200,000 delivery personnel and 60,000 dark store workers, according to TeamLease Staffing.

Union minister Suresh Gopi booked for 'misusing' ambulance in Kerala

Union minister Suresh Gopi booked for 'misusing' ambulance in Kerala

Rediff.com3 Nov 2024

The case was registered following a complaint filed by KP Sumesh, a local Communist Party of India leader, seeking legal action against Gopi for allegedly misusing an ambulance to reach the Pooram venue flouting police restrictions.

Manu Bhaker's Diwali Surprise!

Manu Bhaker's Diwali Surprise!

Rediff.com31 Oct 2024

Manu Bhaker chose to illuminate her home with traditional clay diyas, supporting local vendors and promoting the 'Vocal for Local' initiative.

The Shyam Benegal I Knew

The Shyam Benegal I Knew

Rediff.com23 Dec 2024

His cinema of compassion inspired me, gave me tools to develop empathy for others. But it also made me understand that serious, socially committed cinema with deeply engaging narratives and great performances is an art form to admire, appreciate and explore. Aseem Chhabra remembers Shyam Benegal, who passed into the ages on Monday evening.

India, China complete disengagement; exchange of sweets on Diwali

India, China complete disengagement; exchange of sweets on Diwali

Rediff.com30 Oct 2024

Following the disengagement, both sides will soon start the coordinated patrolling in their respective areas, sources added.

'Not To Titillate'

'Not To Titillate'

Rediff.com4 Dec 2024

Manoj Bajpayee is back with another gripping story in Despatch, an investigative crime thriller which is set to release on ZEE5 on December 13.

Key factors that will drive the markets this week

Key factors that will drive the markets this week

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

Investors will take cues from the December quarter corporate earnings, with blue-chips like Infosys, Reliance Industries scheduled to report their results this week, in addition, inflation data and trading activity of foreign investors will also be crucial in dictating market trends, analysts said.

'They Declared Me Dead!'

'They Declared Me Dead!'

Rediff.com30 Nov 2024

'There was panic among my friends and relatives since I was out of reach.' 'My son-in-law Govind drove down to my home to check on my wellbeing.' 'When I opened the door, he joked, "Bhoot Bhoot!"'

Festive Affair At Modi Stadium

Festive Affair At Modi Stadium

Rediff.com9 Mar 2023

Prior to the start of the Test, Indian Prime Minister Narendra D Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese took a lap of honour around the stadium.

Reliance Q3 net rises 7.4% on rebound in retail, higher telecom earnings

Reliance Q3 net rises 7.4% on rebound in retail, higher telecom earnings

Rediff.com16 Jan 2025

Reliance Industries Ltd on Thursday reported a 7.4 per cent rise in its December quarter net profit, as its retail business rebounded and telecom earnings rose. Its consolidated net profit of Rs 18,540 crore, or Rs 13.70 per share, in October-December - the third quarter of April 2024 to March 2025 fiscal (FY25) - compared to Rs 17,265 crore, or Rs 12.76 a share, in the same period a year back, according to a stock exchange filing by the company.

PIX: People across country celebrate Diwali with pomp

PIX: People across country celebrate Diwali with pomp

Rediff.com31 Oct 2024

Keeping up his tradition of celebrating the festival with soldiers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sir Creek near the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat's Kutch district and offered sweets to jawans.

E-commerce Creating Jobs For Women

E-commerce Creating Jobs For Women

Rediff.com14 Oct 2024

'Women are taking on key roles in warehouses, such as picking and packing, as well as in our last-mile operations across India.'

Economy recovering from Q2 slowdown, says RBI bulletin

Economy recovering from Q2 slowdown, says RBI bulletin

Rediff.com24 Dec 2024

The Indian economy is recovering from the slowdown in momentum witnessed in the September quarter, driven by strong festival activity and a sustained upswing in rural demand, according to a Reserve Bank of India (RBI) bulletin released on Tuesday. An article on the 'State of the Economy' in the December bulletin noted that the global economy continues to exhibit resilience with steady growth and moderating inflation.