News for 'Festival of India'

5 Interesting Pongal Rituals

5 Interesting Pongal Rituals

Rediff.com14 Jan 2025

Pongal, also known as Thai Pongal, is a Hindu harvest festival celebrated by Tamilians across India.

How GM Chitambaram scripted history in Prague

How GM Chitambaram scripted history in Prague

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

The years of sacrifice and hard work is finally paying dividends. The iconic Vellamal School, which is the alma mater of World champion Gukesh, now has another international player of repute to boast about. After all, Aravindh is Gukesh's senior.

Celebrating Indonesia's Festival Of Democracy

Celebrating Indonesia's Festival Of Democracy

Rediff.com13 Feb 2024

The 'Pesta Demokrasi' is a cause for celebration not only for Indonesia but also for democracy and forces for peace all over the globe, notes Sandeep Chakravorty, India's Ambassador to Indonesia.

2024 Belongs To Payal Kapadia!

2024 Belongs To Payal Kapadia!

Rediff.com31 Dec 2024

All We Imagine as Light has been on several critics' best of the year lists, including Sight and Sound (Payal Kapadia appeared on the magazine's cover, perhaps a first for an Indian filmmaker), to The New York Times, Time and it is the number one film recommended by Barack Obama. The future certainly belongs to Payal Kapadia, asserts Aseem Chhabra.

'Hindustan Is Heaven On Earth'

'Hindustan Is Heaven On Earth'

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

The cultural richness that began from a narrow bank of the Yamuna has continued for over 7 centuries. And you literally go underground for as little at Rs 50 to see it!

'Controlled Indo-Pak suits both ruling elites': Ex-NSA

'Controlled Indo-Pak suits both ruling elites': Ex-NSA

Rediff.com24 Jan 2025

Former National Security Advisor (NSA) Shivshankar Menon has stated that the political dynamics between India and Pakistan have resulted in a "controlled level of hostility" that benefits the ruling elites in both nations. Speaking at the Kerala Literature Festival, Menon described Pakistan as a "brand new state" still grappling with its national identity. He argued that India's foreign policy towards Pakistan is influenced by its domestic politics, resulting in an uneasy equilibrium characterized by a "controlled level of hostility." Menon also questioned the concept of a multipolar world, stating that the current global order is merely "confused." He emphasized that the United States remains the world's true military hegemon, while other nations, including China, are regional powers. Menon further argued that there is no binding international order, leading to a state of "between orders." He highlighted the absence of definitive international agreements on crucial issues in recent decades.

Bangladesh cricketer's Maha Shivaratri tribute wins hearts

Bangladesh cricketer's Maha Shivaratri tribute wins hearts

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

Cricketers from the Indian subcontinent also showcased their devotion through temple visits and rituals.

Violence erupts in Bengal during protest against Waqf Act

Violence erupts in Bengal during protest against Waqf Act

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

Protesters in West Bengal's Murshidabad district set fire to police vehicles and hurled stones during a demonstration against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon in the Jangipur area, where a large crowd had gathered demanding the withdrawal of the legislation. Police responded with lathi charges and tear gas to control the situation. Several people were detained and police personnel were injured in the stone-pelting. The West Bengal Police has said the situation is under control and strict action will be taken against those who resorted to violence.

No skin diseases reported after taking dip at Kumbh: UP deputy CM

No skin diseases reported after taking dip at Kumbh: UP deputy CM

Rediff.com2 Mar 2025

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Brajesh Pathak has asserted that no cases of skin diseases were reported among pilgrims who took a dip in the holy Sangam during the Maha Kumbh. Pathak's statement comes in response to concerns raised by opposition leaders regarding the purity of the river water. He highlighted the cleanliness efforts undertaken during the event and the cultural significance of the Maha Kumbh.

World Champ Gukesh, Pragg, Anand Dance!

World Champ Gukesh, Pragg, Anand Dance!

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

To the surprise of many, Anand led the group in a lively dance, encouraging the younger GMs to join in.

Ram Navami celebrated across country amid tight security in many states

Ram Navami celebrated across country amid tight security in many states

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Temples across Uttar Pradesh were packed with devotees on Sunday for Ram Navami, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath leading prayers at the Gorakhnath Temple. Heavy crowds were witnessed at temples in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Varanasi, where security was heightened. In Gorakhpur, Adityanath performed the traditional kanya pujan ritual, while in Varanasi, a 51-foot statue of Lord Ram has become a major attraction. The festival was celebrated with enthusiastic fervor across the state.

India, Don't Spurn Bangladesh

India, Don't Spurn Bangladesh

Rediff.com2 Dec 2024

Our visa operations in Bangladesh constitute the largest visa operations India conducts worldwide. This has taken a hit after Sheikh Hasina's government was overthrown and India reduced its diplomatic presence in Bangladesh, notes Aakar Patel.

'He said, 'I'm Hindu'. They shot him'

'He said, 'I'm Hindu'. They shot him'

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

Pahalgam Terrorist Attack: Dombivli families shattered in grief and grit. Demand dignity, justice and answers to unanswered questions.

Gold surges Rs 1,800 per 10 gram to breach Rs 1 lakh-mark

Gold surges Rs 1,800 per 10 gram to breach Rs 1 lakh-mark

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

Gold future prices sustained upward trend for the fourth straight session by surging Rs 2,048 to hit a fresh record high of Rs 100,000 per 10 grams as investors rushed to safe havens after US President Donald Trump indicated plans to overhaul Federal Reserve amid continuing global trade war jitters. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), the August delivery contract of the yellow metal bounced by Rs 2,048 or 2.1 per cent to hit a fresh peak of Rs 100,000 per 10 grams in the mid-session trade.

'Illegal, un-Islamic': Cleric targets Shami again

'Illegal, un-Islamic': Cleric targets Shami again

Rediff.com16 Mar 2025

A cleric in India has sparked controversy by calling cricketer Mohd Shami's daughter's Holi celebration "illegal" and "against Shariat".

A 'Typical Tom Cruise Day' In Cannes

A 'Typical Tom Cruise Day' In Cannes

Rediff.com15 May 2025

Three decades and seven films after the first blockbuster Mission: Impossible film in 1996, Tom Cruise, now 62, returns with yet another installment in the franchise, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning.

'Pahalgam attack has a Hamas footprint'

'Pahalgam attack has a Hamas footprint'

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

'It was inspired by the Hamas attack and was like their attack -- well planned and well executed.'

What Made Shaji N Karun A Master Film-Maker

What Made Shaji N Karun A Master Film-Maker

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

With Piravi, Shaji N Karun joined the select group of great masters of film. Malayalam once upon a time used to produce such films. Today, it is only mindless violence, politics and grotesque humour. The films have no soul, although they are technically quite good. With Shaji's passing, and earlier with his mentor G Aravindan's untimely death, an era is coming to an end. Rajeev Srinivasan salutes the master, who passed into the ages on April 28.

The 'Alien' Who's Made A Tiger Film

The 'Alien' Who's Made A Tiger Film

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

'I am fascinated by the lurking presence of the tiger.'

Kohli, Anushka's Melbourne X-Mas

Kohli, Anushka's Melbourne X-Mas

Rediff.com25 Dec 2024

On Christmas Day, Virat Kohli and his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, enjoyed a festive breakfast at a cafe in Melbourne.

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.

Is Wamiqa Getting Married? She Tells Us

Is Wamiqa Getting Married? She Tells Us

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

'When I meet someone and feel something, and start dreaming about a big wedding, I will...'

The Pani Puri Deal That's Going Viral

The Pani Puri Deal That's Going Viral

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

The pani puri vendor is drawing attention with exclusive deals, including a lifetime unlimited pani puri offer for Rs 99,000 and a Rs 21,000 reward for anyone who can eat 151 pani puris in one sitting.

EV sales in India up 27% in 2024 miss 2 million mark by a whisker

EV sales in India up 27% in 2024 miss 2 million mark by a whisker

Rediff.com30 Dec 2024

India's electric vehicle (EV) industry hit a new milestone in 2024, with sales surging 26.5 per cent year-on-year to 1.94 million units as of December 29, according to Vahan data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

Thanks To Chhaava, Highest-Grossing February Post-Pandemic

Thanks To Chhaava, Highest-Grossing February Post-Pandemic

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

January and February surpassed the monthly domestic box collection on a year-on-year basis.

Shimla school drops Eid celebration plan after right-wing threat

Shimla school drops Eid celebration plan after right-wing threat

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

A private school in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, withdrew its decision to ask students to wear "kurta-pajama" and bring special food for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations after it sparked a row with a local right-wing organization and some religious groups. The school said it was intended as a cultural learning experience and that participation was voluntary. The school also condemned attempts to misrepresent the event as religious propaganda and urged individuals to remove false and inflammatory messages on social media.

How many brands does Dada promote?

How many brands does Dada promote?

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

'Dada is the ideal fit for brands -- his credibility, passion, and deep connection with audiences make him a game-changer.'

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.

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

'The BJP lacks a credible mass leader who matches Mamata Banerjee's popularity.' 'Given the division of votes among Opposition parties, the West Bengal government's dole-giving strategy, and the consolidation of the poor, significant sections of scheduled caste groups and Muslim minorities behind the ruling party, it will be difficult to dislodge the Trinamool from power.'

'Naidu Will Not Waste Time Now'

'Naidu Will Not Waste Time Now'

Rediff.com3 May 2025

'Amaravati will be a game changer for Andhra Pradesh.'

Son of a tailor, SRH's Zeeshan beats system to make his mark

Son of a tailor, SRH's Zeeshan beats system to make his mark

Rediff.com31 Mar 2025

'Rinku supported Zeeshan a lot during UP T20 league. A leg-spinner needs a lot of confidence from his captain. He was brought into bowl at crucial junctures and that helped him catch attention of scouts.'

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.

Chase gold, not grades: Bhutia

Chase gold, not grades: Bhutia

Rediff.com11 Jan 2025

Bhaichung Bhutia urges 'sports first' shift in Indian education to create world champions

Bangladesh must protect all minorities, says India; raises monk's arrest

Bangladesh must protect all minorities, says India; raises monk's arrest

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

India has expressed serious concern over the increasing incidents of violence and extremist rhetoric against minorities in Bangladesh, urging the interim government to fulfill its responsibility of protecting all minorities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that India has consistently raised the issue of threats and targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities with the Bangladeshi government. Jaiswal emphasized that these developments cannot be dismissed as mere media exaggeration and called upon Bangladesh to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of minorities.

'Girls Will Be Girls Is About Your First Crush'

'Girls Will Be Girls Is About Your First Crush'

Rediff.com7 Dec 2024

'The flutters of excitement of a high-school romance, and then how life changes.'

Violence being instigated after Waqf Bill passage: Adityanath slams Oppn

Violence being instigated after Waqf Bill passage: Adityanath slams Oppn

Rediff.com13 Apr 2025

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday condemned the violence in West Bengal's Murshidabad district following the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, accusing the opposition of instigating the violence. He also criticized the opposition for their alleged silence over the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh and emphasized the BJP's commitment to protecting Hindus.

Eliminate online betting, gambling apps, YSRCP MP urges govt

Eliminate online betting, gambling apps, YSRCP MP urges govt

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

A strong demand was made in the Lok Sabha to eliminate online betting and gambling applications. YSRCP member Maddila Gurumoorthy urged the government to set up a dedicated task force to take action against betting and gambling apps. He also asked the government to draft regulations for such applications and launch awareness campaigns about the dangers of online betting. Other issues raised included deposit insurance coverage for bank depositors, representation of Scheduled Castes in the Kerala government, challenges faced by nurses, and the need for paramilitary forces in Jharkhand during upcoming Hindu festivals.

Gold at fresh record high of Rs 91,950/10 gm

Gold at fresh record high of Rs 91,950/10 gm

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

Gold prices advanced Rs 700 to reach a new lifetime high of Rs 91,950 per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday on the back of continued buying by jewellers ahead of wedding season, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Besides, increased tensions in the Middle East and concerns about the US economic slowdown have kept the demand for safe-haven assets intact.

Har Har Mahadev! Gujarat village celebrates Sunita's return

Har Har Mahadev! Gujarat village celebrates Sunita's return

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

Williams' father, originally from Jhulasan, migrated to the United States in 1957.

X-mas at MCG! Aussies enjoy ahead of Boxing Day

X-mas at MCG! Aussies enjoy ahead of Boxing Day

Rediff.com25 Dec 2024

Captain Pat Cummins reflected on the significance of this Christmas gathering, highlighting the strong bond within the Australian cricket team.