News for 'Holi'

India's 10 Longest Sacred Rivers

India's 10 Longest Sacred Rivers

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

For India, many of its rivers are not merely rivers. They are holy rivers and are rivers revered as goddesses, intertwined with religion and life rituals. Six of India's holy rivers are also its longest rivers.

Happy Birthday Your Holiness

Happy Birthday Your Holiness

Rediff.com6 Jul 2023

His Holiness, The Dalai Lama on Wednesday turned 88 with his birthday being celebrated through prayers and cake-cutting in various monasteries in Himachal Pradesh.

Pope's bond with India: Canonisations, new Cardinal and unfulfilled visit

Pope's bond with India: Canonisations, new Cardinal and unfulfilled visit

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Pope Francis's connection with India was marked by a mix of hopes and challenges. His long-held wish to visit the country remained unfulfilled, but he made significant contributions to the Catholic community in India, including elevating Indian figures to sainthood and appointing an Indian priest as a Cardinal. While his efforts to resolve conflicts within the Syro-Malabar Church were unsuccessful, his legacy will be remembered for his efforts to promote unity and understanding in the Catholic Church.

This Priest Walks Through Fire!

This Priest Walks Through Fire!

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

A priest named Sanju walks through a massive fire to re-enact the story of Prahlad and Holika.

'Padma Shri Is More Important Than Grammys'

'Padma Shri Is More Important Than Grammys'

Rediff.com28 May 2025

'I felt that this, the entire event, was like my temple.'
'It was because of this overwhelming feeling that I thought I should accept the award and walk up on the stage barefoot.'

'Divine image appears' on potato, devotees throng Sambhal temple

'Divine image appears' on potato, devotees throng Sambhal temple

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

A potato with what is believed to be a divine image has appeared at the Tulsi Manas Temple in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, drawing devotees from near and far. The image is seen as a sign of the impending arrival of Lord Kalki, who is believed to be taking his incarnation in Sambhal. The appearance of the image has added to the celebrations of Holi, which falls on March 14th.

PIB Fact-Check Debunks Soldier's Pahalgam Claim

PIB Fact-Check Debunks Soldier's Pahalgam Claim

Rediff.com14 May 2025

The Press Information Bureau has debunked a video of an Indian Army jawan claiming that the Pahalgam terror attack was orchestrated by the Indian Army and Indian government.

Holi Recipe: Chef Bhatt's Matcha Gujiyas

Holi Recipe: Chef Bhatt's Matcha Gujiyas

Rediff.com20 Mar 2024

Matcha tea lovers, this recipe is meant for you!

The Heroes Who Never Gave Up

The Heroes Who Never Gave Up

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

Every wheelchair at the Armed Forces' Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre in Pune is a story of sacrifice and strength, of courage, resilience and unbreakable spirit.

Final snan begins as Maha Kumbh 2025 to conclude today

Final snan begins as Maha Kumbh 2025 to conclude today

Rediff.com26 Feb 2025

The 45-day Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj concluded on Mahashivratri with a record-breaking number of pilgrims taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam. Over 65 crore pilgrims participated in the event, which took place once every 12 years.

Airfares, hotel rates shoot up ahead of Holi, Good Friday

Airfares, hotel rates shoot up ahead of Holi, Good Friday

Rediff.com22 Mar 2024

As March draws to a close, two consecutive long weekend opportunities - Holi and Good Friday - are driving up hotel occupancy and airfares across major routes. According to travel platform Cleartrip, hotel bookings have seen a 3.5 times spike for the Holi weekend, while a 3.7 times spike has been visible in the Good Friday weekend.

'Nitish Kumar Is 100% Healthy'

'Nitish Kumar Is 100% Healthy'

Rediff.com10 Jun 2025

'Nitish Kumar is our CM today and he will be CM going forward also. Nitish Kumar will continue as CM till he wishes.'

Designers apologise for fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramzan

Designers apologise for fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramzan

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Designer duo Shivan and Narresh, who are facing backlash for displaying 'obscene' garments at a fashion show in Gulmarg last week, have said their sole intention was to celebrate creativity and regret any hurt caused by the event during the holy month of Ramzan.

Those daring to wipe off our sisters' sindoor...: Modi

Those daring to wipe off our sisters' sindoor...: Modi

Rediff.com26 May 2025

'The country that came into existence after Partition lives on hatred for India. It only wants to harm Bharat. However, India's goals are to remove poverty, bring about economic development and become a developed nation'

Modi mourns Pope's death, calls him 'a beacon of compassion'

Modi mourns Pope's death, calls him 'a beacon of compassion'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff who charmed the world with his humble style and concern for the poor, died on Monday. He was 88.

'India's Good Relations Will Continue With Pope Leo XIV'

'India's Good Relations Will Continue With Pope Leo XIV'

Rediff.com9 May 2025

'The way our President was greeted, that itself shows how far India has come.' 'People were aware of who she is, people know who our prime minister is.' 'Everybody knows India now and everybody respects India.'

Fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramzan sparks outrage; Omar seeks report

Fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramzan sparks outrage; Omar seeks report

Rediff.com9 Mar 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has ordered a probe after a fashion show in the ski resort of Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan sparked widespread criticism. The event, which featured semi-nude models, was widely condemned by religious leaders and activists who accused the organizers of disregarding local sensitivities and disrespecting religious values. The Chief Minister has promised to take appropriate action once the report is submitted within 24 hours. The incident has sparked a debate about the balance between tourism promotion and the preservation of cultural and religious values in the region.

'Pope Leo Greeted People With A Namaste'

'Pope Leo Greeted People With A Namaste'

Rediff.com17 May 2025

'We had prepared tapioca and crabs for him, and he enjoyed the Kerala cuisine thoroughly.'

If anyone dares to intimidate Muslims...: Ajit Pawar amid Aurangzeb row

If anyone dares to intimidate Muslims...: Ajit Pawar amid Aurangzeb row

Rediff.com22 Mar 2025

Ajit's remarks came at a time when Maharashtra is witnessing heated political debates over the Mahayuti government's demand to remove Mughal empire Aurangzeb's grave from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

12 Fabulously Delicious Ramzan Street Food!

12 Fabulously Delicious Ramzan Street Food!

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

Indian street food reaches its zenith during Ramzan when any and every kind of roadside delight becomes available.

Nagpur violence: Curfew lifted in city; patrolling, deployment to continue

Nagpur violence: Curfew lifted in city; patrolling, deployment to continue

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

Curfew was lifted from the remaining four areas of Nagpur in Maharashtra on Sunday, six days after violence rocked the city. The violence erupted on March 17 after rumors spread about a chadar with holy inscriptions being burnt during a protest led by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. The rumors were later found to be baseless.

How India's air defence foiled Pak missile attack on Golden Temple

How India's air defence foiled Pak missile attack on Golden Temple

Rediff.com19 May 2025

The Army on Monday showcased a demonstration of how Indian Air Defence systems, including AKASH missile system, L-70 Air Defence Guns, saved the Golden Temple in Amritsar and cities of Punjab from Pakistani missile and drone attacks.

Pope Francis' funeral concludes at St Peter's Basilica

Pope Francis' funeral concludes at St Peter's Basilica

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

The funeral mass of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, concluded at St Peter's Square on Saturday with the bells of St Peter's Basilica tolling to signal the end of the 2 hours and 10 minutes long service.

Pope Francis: The Last Photographs

Pope Francis: The Last Photographs

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Pope Francis, who made a surprise appearance on Easter Sunday, riding through St Peter's Square in the popemobile and greeting crowds just weeks after a serious bout of pneumonia, passed away at 0735 Vatican time on Monday morning.

'Maha Kumbh Was A Spiritual Rebirth'

'Maha Kumbh Was A Spiritual Rebirth'

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

'It was as if the sacred waters were washing away not just my sins but also my doubts and burdens,' says Aayushi Agarwal.

Taimur, Jeh, Kareena's Fun Holi!

Taimur, Jeh, Kareena's Fun Holi!

Rediff.com8 Mar 2023

Bollywood stars made a splash this Holi, celebrating with their adorable kids and sharing pictures on social media.

Among The Faithful

Among The Faithful

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is more than just the largest gathering of humanity. It is a testament to faith and devotion.

Have You Played Lathmar Holi?

Have You Played Lathmar Holi?

Rediff.com1 Mar 2023

Women beat men with sticks during Lathmar Holi.

Thiruvananthapuram airport to shut for 4 hours for temple procession

Thiruvananthapuram airport to shut for 4 hours for temple procession

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will be closed for over four hours on April 11 to facilitate the "Painkuni Arattu" procession of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The procession, which involves taking the temple idols to Shangumugham Beach for a ritual bath, crosses the airport runway. The airport will be closed from 4.45 pm to 9 pm on April 11. This tradition dates back centuries and continues even after the airport's establishment in 1932. Flights will be rescheduled during this period.

Communal unrest grips Maha, state sees 823 incidents since Jan

Communal unrest grips Maha, state sees 823 incidents since Jan

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

Maharashtra has witnessed 823 incidents of communal unrest since January this year, with demands for the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb and the spread of distorted facts on social media fomenting fresh trouble. Districts like Nandurbar, Pune (Rural), Ratnagiri, Sangli, Beed, and Satara have seen communal unrest in recent days due to right-wing organizations' demands for the demolition of the Mughal emperor's tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The state witnessed 4,836 Hindu-Muslim related communal crimes in 2024, with 170 incidents classified as cognisable and 3,106 as non-cognisable cases. The violence in Nagpur, triggered by protests demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb, highlights the role of social media in spreading inflammatory content and instigating people. While the state has taken measures to curb the spread of misinformation, concerns remain over the impact on communities and the need for promoting peace and understanding.

Situation in Nagpur completely peaceful, no tension anywhere: Fadnavis

Situation in Nagpur completely peaceful, no tension anywhere: Fadnavis

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

Curfew has been lifted in Nagpur after six days of violence that rocked the city. The situation is now peaceful, according to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The violence, which began on March 17, was sparked by rumors that a "chadar" with holy inscriptions was burned during protests by the VHP and Bajrang Dal demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb. The police have arrested more than 100 people in connection with the violence.

Shami is a criminal: Barelvi cleric

Shami is a criminal: Barelvi cleric

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

'It is the responsibility of all Muslims to follow the rules of Shariat. Fasting is obligatory in Islam. If a person does not keep a fast intentionally, he is considered a sinner according to Islamic law.'

Maha Kumbh ended on...: Shankaracharya slams 'Sarkari Kumbh'

Maha Kumbh ended on...: Shankaracharya slams 'Sarkari Kumbh'

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

"The Maha Kumbh had already passed on Purnima. What is currently happening is the 'Sarkari Kumbh. The real Kumbh takes place in the month of Magh. The full moon of the Magh month had passed, and all the 'Kalpavasi' who were at the Kumbh had already left after the Purnima of Magh month," Shankaracharya said.

Kumbh Mela: Amrit snan, deferred due to stampede, resumes

Kumbh Mela: Amrit snan, deferred due to stampede, resumes

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

The Amrit snan was originally scheduled in the early hours of the day but was postponed following the stampede.

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.

Jorhat, Assam's Hidden Jewel

Jorhat, Assam's Hidden Jewel

Rediff.com2 May 2025

Jorhat has many attraction to offer for the discerning and offbeat traveller.

Siraj performs Umrah at Mecca

Siraj performs Umrah at Mecca

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

He posted a picture on X and captioned it 'ALHAMDULILAH'.

What's Dalai Lama Praying For?

What's Dalai Lama Praying For?

Rediff.com10 Jan 2025

The Dalai Lama offered prayers for victims of the powerful earthquake that claimed more than 120 lives.

Trump's AI image dressed as Pope sparks outrage

Trump's AI image dressed as Pope sparks outrage

Rediff.com3 May 2025

US President Donald Trump has posted a seemingly AI-generated photo of himself in papal attire on his social media, sparking a dueling backlash and praise. The image, which was also posted from the White House's social media handle, prompted many social media users to call it "cosplaying as the next Pope." The photo comes days after Trump had jokingly said last week that he would be his own "number one choice" for the next pope. The president posted the picture at 10:29 pm Friday, without a caption or comment. The post immediately garnered positive and negative reaction online.

A Father-Son's Pilgrimage To The Maha Kumbh

A Father-Son's Pilgrimage To The Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

'As I entered the water at the Sangam, my son held my hand, offering support.' 'It was a powerful moment of connection not only to the Divine but also to my son, reinforcing his role as a pillar of support in my life,' says Arun Khanna.