News for 'Festivals of India'

Superbet Rapid and Blitz: Chithambaram beats Topalov; in sole 3rd spot

Superbet Rapid and Blitz: Chithambaram beats Topalov; in sole 3rd spot

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

Aravindh Chithambaram had a good second day as he beat former World champion Veselin Topalov of Bulgaria and drew the last two games to find himself on the sole third spot in the Superbet Rapid and Blitz chess tournament.

Flight tickets to be cheaper this Holi

Flight tickets to be cheaper this Holi

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

With only a few days to go before the country celebrates Holi, several airline companies offered discounts on fares on the occasion of the festival of colours. While two airlines are providing discounts on both domestic and international networks, another has the offer only for the domestic sector. Low-cost airline Akasa Air said it is offering an all-inclusive one-way fare starting at Rs 1,499 on domestic routes.

Archie and friends celebrate Holi in new comic book

Archie and friends celebrate Holi in new comic book

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Archie Comics has released a new story featuring the celebration of Holi in India. The 10-page story, titled "Celebration Surprise," appears in "The World of Betty & Veronica digest #38." Co-CEO of Archie Comic Publications Nancy Silberkleit said the story was inspired by her own experiences celebrating Holi in India and her desire to celebrate Om Arora, the owner of Delhi-based Variety Book Depot, who has been a long-time distributor of Archie Comics in India.

Who Is Kajol Cheering For?

Who Is Kajol Cheering For?

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

'I was just seeing myself here (pointing at the poster) and was like 'damn, I made it!'' Rediff's Mayur Sanap, Hitesh Harisinghani and Afsar Dayatar report from the teaser launch of Tanvi The Great.

India, England players arrive in Kolkata for first T20I

India, England players arrive in Kolkata for first T20I

Rediff.com18 Jan 2025

Beginning with the Eden T20I, the two teams will fight it out in a full white ball series, comprising five T20Is and three ODIs, which will serve as a crucial warm-up for the Champions Trophy, slated to begin on February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.

Indians Want To Make An Experience Of Every Trip

Indians Want To Make An Experience Of Every Trip

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

'Adventure travel, cultural tours, and wellness retreats are in high demand.'

What's Sanya Malhotra Proud Of?

What's Sanya Malhotra Proud Of?

Rediff.com27 Jan 2025

'I hope this film will bring some change in people, their homes, and in our society.'

Kerala: The Puzzled Book Of Questions

Kerala: The Puzzled Book Of Questions

Rediff.com11 Jun 2025

Can a culture survive as a way of life, even as the language and writing at its core, alter with time? Can we be rational and Malayalee or do we have to necessarily be religious and proudly cultural to be Malayalee? asks Shyam G Menon.

Bhutan: The Last Shangri-La

Bhutan: The Last Shangri-La

Rediff.com12 Jun 2025

The visitor returns not just with the jewel-like beauty of the country imprinted on the mind, the body rejuvenated by hot stone massages, but also with the captivating stories and myths that are built into every important structure -- whether a tourist magnet or an off-the-beaten track spot.

The Kite Runners

The Kite Runners

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

Falling on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, Lohri and Makar Sankranti are celebrated with great joy, often marked by the tradition of kite flying.

Cricketers Go Kite Flying!

Cricketers Go Kite Flying!

Rediff.com15 Jan 2025

Indian and Irish cricketers flew kites to mark Makar Sankranti.

10 Must Watch Stories From Across The World

10 Must Watch Stories From Across The World

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

This year's Sundance Film Festival was rich with films and the theatres were warm, even as temperatures outside dipped to below freezing point. It snowed only once but the sidewalks remained slippery for a few days.

SEE: Saina Nehwal at Maha Kumbh

SEE: Saina Nehwal at Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com5 Feb 2025

Saina Nehwal joined millions of devotees at the world's largest spiritual gathering, seeking blessings at the sacred Triveni Sangam.

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.

Vehicle retail sales in India sees 32% rise Y-o-Y in Oct: FADA

Vehicle retail sales in India sees 32% rise Y-o-Y in Oct: FADA

Rediff.com6 Nov 2024

The total vehicle retail sales in India witnessed a 32 per cent on-year rise in October to 28,32,944 units with all segments including two-wheelers and passenger vehicles registering strong growth, Federation of Automobile Dealers' Association (FADA) said on Wednesday. The total vehicle retail sales in October 2023 stood at 21,43,929 units, as per FADA. The strong growth in October this year was largely driven by the rural market, especially boosting two-wheeler and passenger vehicles sales, supported by increased Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Rabi crops, FADA said.

BAFTA: All We Imagine As Light Loses To Emilia Perez

BAFTA: All We Imagine As Light Loses To Emilia Perez

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

Director Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light failed to win at the BAFTAs.

Gold nears Rs 1 lakh-mark on weak dollar

Gold nears Rs 1 lakh-mark on weak dollar

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Gold prices inched closer to the psychological mark of Rs 1 lakh per 10 grams as the bullion rates surged Rs 1,650 in the national capital on Monday on weak dollar and uncertainties over US-China trade war driving demand. According to the All India Sarafa Association, the yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity reached Rs 99,800 per 10 grams on Monday. Its value had declined Rs 20 to close at Rs 98,150 on Friday.

Willing to lead INDIA bloc if....: Mamata Banerjee

Willing to lead INDIA bloc if....: Mamata Banerjee

Rediff.com7 Dec 2024

Asked why she is not taking the charge of the bloc, given her credentials as a strong anti-BJP force, Banerjee said, "If given the opportunity I would ensure its smooth functioning."

India@Oscars: 'We Are Choosing The Wrong Films'

India@Oscars: 'We Are Choosing The Wrong Films'

Rediff.com18 Dec 2024

'Unfortunately, we live in a 'Mainstream Bollywood' bubble, where we cannot look beyond films that we ourselves find entertaining.'

Biryani finds its place on the valuation menu with rising investor appetite

Biryani finds its place on the valuation menu with rising investor appetite

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

Biryani is set to get its own valuation. Devyani International, the largest franchisee of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) quick-service restaurants (QSRs) in India, is considering the acquisition of Sky Gate Hospitality, which operates restaurants under the brand Biryani By Kilo (BBK), it said in a statement to BSE on Monday.

IPL 2025: New date fixed for KKR Vs LSG tie in Kolkata

IPL 2025: New date fixed for KKR Vs LSG tie in Kolkata

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday rescheduled the Indian Premier League ((IPL) match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants from April 6 to April 8.

'There Was Something Beautiful About The Two People'

'There Was Something Beautiful About The Two People'

Rediff.com21 May 2025

'In a world which is full of categories, hatred and ideologies, there was this basic decency.'

March blow for retail auto sales, may face headwinds

March blow for retail auto sales, may face headwinds

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

The only silver lining in March's performance -- which otherwise dragged down the financial year's momentum -- was a 6 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth compared to March of the previous year. This is largely due to incentives, festival-driven gains, and new launches.

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.

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.

'The Ire Was Aimed At Kunal Kamra'

'The Ire Was Aimed At Kunal Kamra'

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

'Habitat was viewed as the proxy for him and got unjustly targeted.'

'After The Scene, He Broke Down And Wept'

'After The Scene, He Broke Down And Wept'

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

'The entire shoot paused after that.' 'There was a heaviness on set -- a shared recognition of the horror we were portraying.'

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.

'Saugat e Modi Is Not Muslim Appeasement'

'Saugat e Modi Is Not Muslim Appeasement'

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

'During Eid Muslims get Eidi, but Opposition parties never gave that to them.' 'When PM Modi is giving Eidi to Muslims Opposition leaders are getting upset.'

'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.

'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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'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".