News for 'Festivals of India'

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.

No politics in temple worship and festivals, says Kerala HC

No politics in temple worship and festivals, says Kerala HC

Rediff.com17 Feb 2023

The Kerala high court has held that politics has no role to play in the conduct of daily worship, temple festivals and ceremonies.

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.

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.

Durga Puja: The Countdown Begins

Durga Puja: The Countdown Begins

Rediff.com30 Sep 2024

The nine-day festival begins this year on October 3. Each day is devoted to one of Ma Durga's nine avatars -- Goddess Shailputri, Goddess Brahmacharini, Goddess Chandraghanta, Goddess Kushmanda, Goddess Skandamata, Goddess Katyayani, Goddess Kalaratri, Goddess Mahagauri and Goddess Siddhidatri.

Navratri Begins: Ready To Dance The Garba?

Navratri Begins: Ready To Dance The Garba?

Rediff.com3 Oct 2024

The prelude to the nine-day festival, which begins on October 3, is as exciting as the festival itself.

PHOTOS: India revels in riot of colours

PHOTOS: India revels in riot of colours

Rediff.com25 Mar 2024

India was drenched in hues of the rainbow on Monday as people celebrated Holi, the festival colours, on Monday and smeared 'gulal' on each other.

Smartphone market value surges 12% in Q3CY24: Counterpoint

Smartphone market value surges 12% in Q3CY24: Counterpoint

Rediff.com4 Nov 2024

India's smartphone market grew by three per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) in volume in the third quarter (Q3) of calendar year 2024, while its value surged by 12 per cent Y-o-Y to reach an all-time record for a single quarter, according to a report by research firm Counterpoint. The value growth was driven by an ongoing premiumisation trend, while the increase in volume was driven by an earlier onset of the festival season compared to the previous year.

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.

'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.'

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.

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.

'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.'

AI & automation to play a crucial role for retail industry in 2025

AI & automation to play a crucial role for retail industry in 2025

Rediff.com30 Dec 2024

With the rapid evolution of channels like quick-commerce and the emergence of ONDC, the Indian retail industry is 'cautiously optimistic' for 2025, in which new-age technologies such as AI and automation will play a crucial role, driving efficiency and personalisation.

When Rishi Kapoor Was 'Delighted' By Modi

When Rishi Kapoor Was 'Delighted' By Modi

Rediff.com12 Dec 2024

'"When I was in China, a song by your father was being played," Modi told Ranbir.'

Despite CRR cut, liquidity deficit in banking system crosses Rs 2 trillion

Despite CRR cut, liquidity deficit in banking system crosses Rs 2 trillion

Rediff.com1 Jan 2025

The liquidity deficit in the banking system crossed Rs 2 trillion again on Monday, despite the second instalment of cash reserve ratio (CRR) reduction coming into effect from December 28.

Want To Buy A Mercedes? A BMW? An Audi?

Want To Buy A Mercedes? A BMW? An Audi?

Rediff.com30 Sep 2024

From attractive EMIs to assured buyback guarantees, luxury carmakers have lined up a slew of offers to woo customers this festival season to address dwindling sales amid rising inventories.

GST records second-highest collection at Rs 1.87 lakh cr in Oct

GST records second-highest collection at Rs 1.87 lakh cr in Oct

Rediff.com1 Nov 2024

Gross GST collection grew 9 per cent to over Rs 1.87 lakh crore in October on higher revenues from domestic transactions. The Central GST collection stood at Rs 33,821 crore, State GST at Rs 41,864 crore, Integrated IGST at Rs 99,111 crore and cess at Rs 12,550 crore.

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.

Kareena, Sara Love Going Green With...

Kareena, Sara Love Going Green With...

Rediff.com24 Dec 2024

From timeless necklaces to contemporary earrings, emeralds are transforming jewellery.

'English Year': Muslim body issues fatwa against New Year celebrations

'English Year': Muslim body issues fatwa against New Year celebrations

Rediff.com30 Dec 2024

Razvi continued, urging young Muslim people to avoid participating in New Year celebrations, stressing that Muslims should instead focus on religious practices that align with their faith.

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'.

Cars to cost more from January

Cars to cost more from January

Rediff.com8 Dec 2024

Prices of various car models -- ranging from entry-level hatchbacks to high-end luxury offerings -- are set to rise as automakers have announced price hikes with effect from January. Carmakers cite an increase in input costs and operational expenses as the main reason to implement price increases from the next month. Industry experts, however, note that the exercise is also undertaken by automakers every year in December to shore up sales volume in the last month of the year, as customers postpone buyouts to later months to get the new year manufactured units.

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.

India Is All Set To Shine At Cannes

India Is All Set To Shine At Cannes

Rediff.com13 May 2024

Never before in history have Cannes and its sidebars found space for eight Indian, or India-themed, films.

'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.

Renowned folk singer and Padma recipient Sharda Sinha dies at 72

Renowned folk singer and Padma recipient Sharda Sinha dies at 72

Rediff.com6 Nov 2024

Sinha, who pioneered and popularised the rich folk traditions of Bihar beyond its borders, was undergoing treatment at All India Institute of Medical Sciences-Delhi for multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer.

Modi invites G20 to witness 'festival of democracy' in 2024 polls

Modi invites G20 to witness 'festival of democracy' in 2024 polls

Rediff.com21 Jun 2023

Modi said India's next general elections will be held in 2024 and he invited G20 delegates to visit the country to witness the "festival of democracy" in the "mother of democracy".

Who's Shriya Blowing A Kiss To?

Who's Shriya Blowing A Kiss To?

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

The closing ceremony of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) saw a lot of glamour, as stars headed to the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa and made it a night to remember.

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.

Record high price of gold mutes Dhanteras sales; volumes may drop 10%

Record high price of gold mutes Dhanteras sales; volumes may drop 10%

Rediff.com29 Oct 2024

Gold sales on Dhanteras are estimated to drop 10 per cent in volume terms year-on-year on sharp 33 per cent annual rise in rates of the yellow metal, according to industry players. Since Dhanteras -- the most auspicious day in the Hindu calendar for buying items ranging from precious metals to utensils -- is celebrated on two days till 1.11 pm on Wednesday, jewellers are expecting more footfalls in both online and offline stores.

Share Your Karwa Chauth Photos

Share Your Karwa Chauth Photos

Rediff.com19 Oct 2024

Dear Reader, do tell us how you celebrate the Karwa Chauth festival.

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.

Dada, Lara Celebrate Durga Puja

Dada, Lara Celebrate Durga Puja

Rediff.com7 Oct 2024

Cricket legends Sourav Ganguly and Brian Lara joined the Durga Puja festivities in Kolkata on Sunday.

Our concern is...: Iran's 1st reaction on Syria situation

Our concern is...: Iran's 1st reaction on Syria situation

Rediff.com11 Dec 2024

Iran's ambassador to India, Iraj Ilahi, expressed concern about the stability and security of the "whole region" following the collapse of the Syrian government, highlighting Tehran's worries about the potential wider ramifications of the situation. Ilahi also emphasized the importance of promoting tourism between India and Iran, citing their shared cultural heritage and the recent easing of visa restrictions.

'India In 1947 Was Like A Ticking Time Bomb'

'India In 1947 Was Like A Ticking Time Bomb'

Rediff.com20 Nov 2024

'When you watch Freedom At Midnight, I want you to feel like you are sitting on a ticking time bomb.'

Is Sanya The Ultimate Girl Crush?

Is Sanya The Ultimate Girl Crush?

Rediff.com18 Dec 2024

Sanya Malhotra is an artist, muse, and fashionista all at once.

Moviedom Mourns Sharda Sinha

Moviedom Mourns Sharda Sinha

Rediff.com6 Nov 2024

'The great singer Shardaji took Bhojpuri music and singing to the national and international level with her singing!'

You can change the world in 10 hours: Anand Mahindra on 90-hour work week

You can change the world in 10 hours: Anand Mahindra on 90-hour work week

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

Focus on the quality of work and not on the quantity, as one can change the world in 10 hours, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra said on Saturday, joining the debate on a 90-hour work week.

India's 10 Costliest Weddings

India's 10 Costliest Weddings

Rediff.com12 Jul 2024

The estimated costs of these weddings start from Rs 100 crore and go up to Rs 700 crore.