News for 'IDEA'

Parelcha Raja's Tribute to Lord Vitthal

Parelcha Raja's Tribute to Lord Vitthal

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

For its 80th year, Mumbai's Parelcha Raja Narepark pays tribute to Maharashtra's Warkari tradition of worshipping Lord Vitthal with a towering 23 feet Ganesha idol, for which water was brought in from Pandharpur's Chandrabhaga river.

From Mizoram Dirt Pitches to India's Hockey Star: Lalremsiami's Golden Dream

From Mizoram Dirt Pitches to India's Hockey Star: Lalremsiami's Golden Dream

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Lalremsiami Hmarzote, Mizoram's first female Olympian and Asian Games medallist, is now India's offensive lynchpin, aiming for a first Asian Games hockey gold since 1982, after overcoming initial family resistance and training on dirt pitches.

'I'm shocked': Norris hails career best lap in Spanish GP pole

'I'm shocked': Norris hails career best lap in Spanish GP pole

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

McLaren's Lando Norris delivered a stunning 'wonder lap' to snatch pole position for the Spanish Grand Prix, beating championship leader Kimi Antonelli by a mere 0.011 seconds.

India's Asian Games contingent to focus on empathy and safeguarding

India's Asian Games contingent to focus on empathy and safeguarding

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Indian contingent for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya will undergo orientation sessions focusing on empathy and mutual respect. For the first time, a Safeguarding Officer will accompany the 768-strong team to provide support, counsel distressed athletes, and enforce a code of conduct, ensuring a safe and conducive environment for performance. The officer's role, mandated by the Olympic Council of Asia, includes confidential reporting and potential accreditation suspension for serious violations.

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, and RJD, have strongly criticised the government's decision to impose a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants. They allege the move is a result of "American imperialism" and will lead to increased commodity prices, while the government maintains the charge is on merchants and not consumers, with person-to-person transactions remaining free.

Why Kylian Mbappe Believes He Deserves The Ballon D'Or

Why Kylian Mbappe Believes He Deserves The Ballon D'Or

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Kylian Mbappe has asserted his belief that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year, despite not securing any club or international silverware. The French forward highlighted his individual performances, including becoming the World Cup's all-time leading scorer, and praised new France coach Zinedine Zidane.

Ladakh groups to launch massive stir for statehood in Kargil on Sep 20

Ladakh groups to launch massive stir for statehood in Kargil on Sep 20

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) announced a major protest rally in Kargil on September 20, demanding justice for victims of police firing in Leh last year and protesting the central government's perceived lack of seriousness in talks regarding Ladakh's demands. The KDA, along with the Leh Apex Body (LAB), rejected the compensation offered by the Lieutenant Governor as inadequate and called for the withdrawal of all cases against arrested protesters. They criticised the recent talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs as "unproductive" and reiterated their demands for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.

5 Rakhi Ads That Melted Our Hearts

5 Rakhi Ads That Melted Our Hearts

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Five Raksha Bandhan ads that stayed with us long after the festival was over...

Brics Grain Exchange: A Game-Changer or Too Many Hurdles?

Brics Grain Exchange: A Game-Changer or Too Many Hurdles?

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Brics proposal for a Grain Exchange, aimed at challenging the dominance of Western trading firms, faces significant operational and implementation hurdles, including settlement currency, regulatory frameworks, and limited participation from key members like India, according to experts.

Why BJP, Congress Watch CJP's Future Moves

Why BJP, Congress Watch CJP's Future Moves

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Some see in the CJP the potential of weakening the Opposition. Hence the BJP/RSS's 'softly softly catchee monkey' approach, with co-option being the ultimate aim, points out Aditi Phadnis.

How Khelo India Dialogue Aims To Shape India's Sporting Future

How Khelo India Dialogue Aims To Shape India's Sporting Future

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the 'Khelo India Dialogue' to engage with youth on India's sporting journey, national development, and Olympic aspirations. The virtual event, structured around five key themes including sports ecosystem improvement, youth leadership, and a 'Nasha Mukt Yuva' movement, aims to gather ideas for a stronger, youth-led 'Viksit Bharat' and nurture talent for the 2036 Olympics.

Opposition Demands Rollback Of UPI MDR Fee, Cites US Pressure

Opposition Demands Rollback Of UPI MDR Fee, Cites US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The opposition has intensified its criticism of the government's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh allege the move is a result of US pressure, particularly from American card companies, and demand an immediate rollback, warning of increased costs for consumers.

He Created The MumbaiCha Raja Ganesh Idol

He Created The MumbaiCha Raja Ganesh Idol

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Sculptor Akash Tirmal explains how he designed the 22 feet idol of Ganesh Galli's MumbaiCha Raja using Plaster of Paris, without any readymade moulds.

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The opposition has strongly criticised the government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15. They allege the move is a result of US pressure and will lead to increased commodity prices, calling it a "betrayal" of the common man. The government, however, clarifies that customers will not be charged, and the MDR applies only to merchants for larger transactions.

Can India help bring the Russia-Ukraine war to an end?

Can India help bring the Russia-Ukraine war to an end?

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India is in continuous dialogue with both Ukraine and Russia, seeking ideas and suggestions to mitigate or cease the ongoing conflict. Following his visit to Kyiv, Jaishankar reiterated India's stance that the war must end through dialogue and diplomacy, emphasising that trade decisions like oil purchases are not the solution to the conflict.

Tennis and military service: Korea's players face tough choice

Tennis and military service: Korea's players face tough choice

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

South Korean male professional tennis players face a unique challenge: mandatory military service, which interrupts their careers for 18 months. This article explores how players like Seong-chan Hong, Hyeon Chung, and Soonwoo Kwon adapt to this obligation, with some earning exemptions through sporting achievements while others navigate a return to the professional circuit after their service.

Arundhati Bhattacharya: 'Nothing Was Guaranteed, Nothing Was Given'

Arundhati Bhattacharya: 'Nothing Was Guaranteed, Nothing Was Given'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

'Giving up is very easy. But don't give up. Try out whatever you can. Something will happen.'

'ISRO's Successes Must Not Be Privatised'

'ISRO's Successes Must Not Be Privatised'

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Their message is blunt: Public scientific wealth should not be transferred at what they describe as 'throwaway prices'.capability, recruitment, promotional avenues and the voice of its employees.

Sitharaman: GST Council to tackle process reforms, digital economy tax complexities

Sitharaman: GST Council to tackle process reforms, digital economy tax complexities

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council's October 7 meeting will focus on 'GST 2.0' process reforms, including e-invoicing and input tax credit rules, while also addressing complex issues surrounding the taxation of the digital economy and cryptocurrency.

Why I Refuse To Romanticise The 1980s

Why I Refuse To Romanticise The 1980s

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Some decades are worth remembering exactly as they were, unfiltered, because that's the only way the people who survived them get to be seen at all, points out Binu Alex.

Kushner defends FIFA's $20 billion gamble, but concedes political miscalculation

Kushner defends FIFA's $20 billion gamble, but concedes political miscalculation

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Josh Kushner said Thrive Capital misjudged football's political dynamics, would have avoided FIFA's failed $20 billion rights plan, but still supports its aim of broader investment.

Young Leaders Dialogue To Shape India's Future

Young Leaders Dialogue To Shape India's Future

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The third edition of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) has commenced with a quiz contest, leading to a national finale in January 2027 where young leaders will present their ideas for a developed India to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The multi-stage event includes essay challenges, district championships, and state-level dialogues, aiming to foster youth participation in nation-building across various thematic areas.

Nepomniachtchi's Brilliance Secures GCL Title For Ganges Grandmasters

Nepomniachtchi's Brilliance Secures GCL Title For Ganges Grandmasters

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Ganges Grandmasters, led by Ian Nepomniachtchi, defeated defending champions Alpine APL Pipers to win their first Global Chess League title. Nepomniachtchi's crucial win against Magnus Carlsen in the final, coupled with Stavroula Tsolakidou's performance, sealed the victory. FYERS American Gambits secured third place in the tournament.

Teen Wonder Teodor Davidov adds a new spin to US Open with two-handed magic

Teen Wonder Teodor Davidov adds a new spin to US Open with two-handed magic

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Sixteen-year-old Teodor Davidov is captivating the US Open with his rare ability to serve from either hand and play without a backhand, adding unpredictability to his game.

What's Special About Thirukkural Which Modi Gifted Putin?

What's Special About Thirukkural Which Modi Gifted Putin?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Russian President Vladimir Putin with a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the classical Tamil work by poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar, ahead of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Digital money is gradually starting to behave like software. It's no longer inert -- sitting passively in accounts. In the not-so-distant future, your money could become 'smart' and 'active,' understanding your preferences, paying your bills automatically, optimising your returns, and managing your risks -- all without you having to manage the details.

BRICS represents 50% of world population, 40% of GDP: Ramaphosa

BRICS represents 50% of world population, 40% of GDP: Ramaphosa

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday described BRICS as an important global forum, highlighting the grouping's growing demographic and economic weight and noting that its members account for around half of the world's population and 40 percent of global GDP.

'We Get 4 Threats From Terrorists Every Month'

'We Get 4 Threats From Terrorists Every Month'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'...in which our names are written with our phone numbers.'

BRICS Summit 2026 Focuses On Practical Outcomes

BRICS Summit 2026 Focuses On Practical Outcomes

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The highlight of the successful BRICS Summit was its ability to deliver a joint statement that all members, including Iran and the United Arab Emirates, embroiled in the war in West Asia, signed.

'Ganeshotsav Is No Longer The Same'

'Ganeshotsav Is No Longer The Same'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

'Earlier, Ganeshotsav was social. Now it is all about social media.'

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar is a gripping cat-and-mouse game that benefits from smart writing.

It's Time To Replace Gambhir As Test Coach

It's Time To Replace Gambhir As Test Coach

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

India have never looked so vulnerable in Test cricket in recent times. They need a complete reset of their approach to Test cricket, and perhaps a new coach with fresh ideas could revitalise Shubman Gill and his boys.

Mumbai Cricket Team Web Series Planned to Showcase Behind-the-Scenes Journey

Mumbai Cricket Team Web Series Planned to Showcase Behind-the-Scenes Journey

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is planning a web series or documentary to capture a full season of the Mumbai senior cricket team, aiming to inspire youth and offer fans a behind-the-scenes look at the 42-time Ranji Trophy champions.

8 Teachers Every Indian Should Know

8 Teachers Every Indian Should Know

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

From ancient gurus to pioneering educationists and social reformers, India's history is peopled by remarkable teachers who saw learning as a force for change.

Fintech 'Valuable Partner' in Building Future Financial System: RBI Governor

Fintech 'Valuable Partner' in Building Future Financial System: RBI Governor

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the central bank consistently views fintechs as 'valuable partners' in shaping India's future financial system, crediting the sector with expanding financial inclusion, enhancing customer experience, and streamlining credit delivery, particularly for MSMEs.

Brazil Legend Cafu On India's Historic Friendly: A Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu On India's Historic Friendly: A Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Brazil football legend Cafu has advised the Indian national team to view their upcoming friendly against Brazil on October 3 in Kolkata as a crucial learning experience rather than just a spectacle. He emphasised the match's importance for India's preparation for the 2030 World Cup cycle and highlighted Brazil's deep connection with Kolkata, referencing Pele's historic visit. Cafu also discussed the future of Brazilian football and his unique World Cup record.

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Brazil's legendary captain Cafu advises the Indian national football team to view their upcoming friendly match against five-time world champions Brazil as a crucial learning experience for future World Cup cycles, rather than just a spectacle. He highlights Brazil's strong connection with Kolkata and identifies promising young Brazilian talents for the future.

'Nobody Looks At Clothes As Waste'

'Nobody Looks At Clothes As Waste'

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

'You can't be selfish when you're thinking about nature. It has to be good karma.' 'If we prevent textile waste from going to the landfills, it's good karma.'

Putin pitches NDB investment platform to deepen BRICS trade, technology ties

Putin pitches NDB investment platform to deepen BRICS trade, technology ties

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a new investment platform, based on the New Development Bank (NDB), to fund projects in trade, infrastructure, logistics, and technology across BRICS nations, emphasising that the grouping's expanding economic cooperation is not 'against anyone' but aims to advance members' national interests.

The Revolutionaries Review: Flawed Portrayal Of Independence Struggle

The Revolutionaries Review: Flawed Portrayal Of Independence Struggle

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Revolutionaries never draws you into its world nor explains the mind and motivation of its heroes or even the mood within a nation they're going through so much trouble for, observes Sukanya Verma.