News for 'Madurai'

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.

Lockdown extended in Chennai, Madurai till July 5

Lockdown extended in Chennai, Madurai till July 5

Rediff.com29 Jun 2020

Government and private bus transport services, now allowed within districts barring Chennai, its nearby areas and Madurai would cease to be operational from July 1 to 15, the government said.

Remember Smart Cities? What Happened?

Remember Smart Cities? What Happened?

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

Among the cities that have fully implemented their projects are Agra, Varanasi, Madurai, Coimbatore, Udaipur, Pune, Surat, and Vadodara

No Pakistan at Asia Cup? Government advisory holds the key

No Pakistan at Asia Cup? Government advisory holds the key

Rediff.com14 May 2025

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives and injured many, the government ordered all Pakistani nationals to leave the country and revoked their visas.

Auction of TN's Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block cancelled

Auction of TN's Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block cancelled

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

The government on Thursday said it has cancelled the auction of Tamil Nadu's Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block which is near the Arittapatti Biodiversity site and a number of cultural heritage sites. Tungsten is a critical and strategic mineral.

What Travel Boycott Can Teach Turkiye, Azerbaijan

What Travel Boycott Can Teach Turkiye, Azerbaijan

Rediff.com27 May 2025

Just as Gandhiji's spinning wheel became a symbol of resistance, Indian travellers today can turn their passports into instruments of peaceful protest, argues Harsh Roongta.

Can EPS Outwit Amit Shah?

Can EPS Outwit Amit Shah?

Rediff.com24 Jul 2025

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami is under pressure from his party as his unclear stand on the BJP alliance has brought back fears among party workers that the party may lose its identity, be forced into an unwanted coalition, and be taken over by the BJP later, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

CPM's Karat calls for Left unity to counter 'Hindutva neo-fascism'

CPM's Karat calls for Left unity to counter 'Hindutva neo-fascism'

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

The 24th CPI(M) Party Congress commenced in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, with interim coordinator Prakash Karat emphasizing the need for Left unity to combat "Hindutva neo-fascism." He criticized the BJP-RSS government, accusing it of representing a "Hindutva-corporate nexus" and displaying "neo-fascist characteristics." Other Left leaders, including CPI general secretary D Raja and CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya, echoed calls for unity and condemned the current political climate in India.

CM Stalin opts out of Governor Ravi's 'At Home' reception

CM Stalin opts out of Governor Ravi's 'At Home' reception

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin did not attend the traditional 'At Home' reception hosted by Governor R N Ravi on Republic Day. Stalin instead visited Madurai to participate in events celebrating the cancellation of the Centre's tungsten mining initiative. The Chief Minister and his cabinet colleagues boycotted the event, following suit with the ruling DMK's allies, including the Congress party. Governor Ravi, who has been critical of the DMK regime, had targeted the Stalin-led government in his Republic Day Eve address, alleging that many state-run universities in Tamil Nadu were in a dire financial crisis. In Madurai, CM Stalin, recalling his assurance that tungsten mining would not be allowed while he remained in office, said the village elders visited him in Chennai and invited him for the felicitation function. He said rather than praising him, it is the people who should be greeted, thanked and felicitated. The union government recently announced its decision to annul the auctioning of the mining rights.

Kamal Haasan to enter Rajya Sabha with DMK support

Kamal Haasan to enter Rajya Sabha with DMK support

Rediff.com29 May 2025

Actor Kamal Haasan launched Makkal Needhi Miam at a public meeting in Madurai in 2018.

Kerala temple staffer resigns amid caste discrimination row

Kerala temple staffer resigns amid caste discrimination row

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

An employee of the famed Koodalmanikyam temple in Kerala has resigned, citing personal reasons, following allegations of caste discrimination. Balu, a member of the Ezhava community, was recruited for 'kazhakam' duties, which involve preparing garlands and performing ceremonial chores. The resignation has sparked controversy, with the Devaswom Minister assuring support for Balu and criticizing the temple's 'tantries' for their stance. The temple has two 'Kazhakam' positions, one appointed by the 'tantries' and the other filled according to the Acts and Regulations.

Stalin Can Win 2026 Poll If...

Stalin Can Win 2026 Poll If...

Rediff.com18 Jul 2025

...the DMK chief minister's campaign -- which includes criticism of the BJP's 'pro-Hindutva, anti-Tamil, anti-federal' policies and building on his own government's social welfare programmes targeting especially women and youth -- appeals to Tamil Nadu's voters in next year's assembly election, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

Why Stalin Is Pushing Keeladi Over Indus Valley

Why Stalin Is Pushing Keeladi Over Indus Valley

Rediff.com2 Jun 2025

'It has the potential to sow seeds of furthering discord when the direction of the discourse is aimed at propagating the perceived supremacy of 'cultural nationalism' from a distant past over the prevailing dominance of 'Constitutional nationalism',' argues N Sathiya Moorthy.

TN Guv Ravi in fresh trouble after asking students to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'

TN Guv Ravi in fresh trouble after asking students to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'

Rediff.com13 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has sparked controversy by asking students at a government-aided college in Madurai to chant "Jai Shri Ram". The State Platform for Common School System-Tamil Nadu (SPCSS-TN) has demanded his removal, alleging that he violated his oath of office and secular principles. The group claims Ravi's actions were against the Constitution, which outlines India as a secular country and emphasizes the importance of upholding secular values in education. The incident follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that overruled Ravi's decision to withhold 10 Bills passed by the Tamil Nadu government, highlighting ongoing tensions between the Governor and the state administration.

Kerala leader MA Baby elected CPM chief, first from minority group

Kerala leader MA Baby elected CPM chief, first from minority group

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Former Kerala minister M A Baby was elected as the CPI(M) general secretary at the 24th party congress in Madurai. Baby, who was a member of the Rajya Sabha from 1986 to 1998, has been a member of the Politburo since 2012. He succeeds Sitaram Yechury, who passed away last year.

Speculation rife as CPI-M set to pick new general secy

Speculation rife as CPI-M set to pick new general secy

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) is set to elect its next general secretary, with speculation rife over who will lead the party. Leading contenders include M A Baby, backed by the party's Kerala unit, and Ashok Dhawale, who enjoys support from the West Bengal lobby. Other potential candidates include Mohammed Salim, B V Raghavulu, and Brinda Karat. The election will take place at the 24th CPI(M) congress in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

Now, L2: Empuraan Arrives On OTT

Now, L2: Empuraan Arrives On OTT

Rediff.com25 Apr 2025

Lights, camera, ACTION, you'll find them in heaps on OTT this week. Sukanya Verma lists some interesting options.

'India Took Me To A Higher Place'

'India Took Me To A Higher Place'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2025

'Youngsters in India look up to the West as if it is the biggest accomplishment they need in life. It breaks my heart.'

Visiting Shimla? Don't Miss Narkanda

Visiting Shimla? Don't Miss Narkanda

Rediff.com19 Jun 2024

Narkanda in Himachal Pradesh is a hidden gem, perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Vijaykanth hurt aboard Madurai flight

Vijaykanth hurt aboard Madurai flight

Rediff.com6 Jun 2007

Vijaykanth had a slight injury on his forehead and was given first-aid, they said.

3 Al Qaeda 'sympathisers' arrested by NIA in Madurai

3 Al Qaeda 'sympathisers' arrested by NIA in Madurai

Rediff.com28 Nov 2016

In a joint operation with police of two states, the National Investigation Agency on Monday arrested three persons suspected to be part of a group sympathising with Al Qaeda and involved in five blast cases in court premises of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka since April.

Hayden offers worship at Madurai shrine

Hayden offers worship at Madurai shrine

Rediff.com9 Aug 2016

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden visited the Meenakshi temple in Madurai on Tuesday. As part of a day's visit to this city, he also addressed members of the district cricket association besides school and college students.

Madurai Meenaikshi temple tower damaged in lightning

Madurai Meenaikshi temple tower damaged in lightning

Rediff.com13 Dec 2013

According to the joint commissioner of the temple Jayaraman, the 'Yaali Mukham' (the face of a mythical animal) atop the tower suffered damage in the lightning.

CPM's biggest U-turn: Modi govt not fascist

CPM's biggest U-turn: Modi govt not fascist

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued a note to its state units on the draft political resolution for the upcoming party congress. The note says the party does not consider the Narendra Modi government or the Indian State as "neo-fascist", even as there are manifestations of "neo-fascist characteristics". The note clarifies that the party is not calling the Modi government "neo-fascist", but is concerned about the dangers of the BJP-RSS consolidating power and pushing a Hindutva-corporate agenda. The CPI(M) distinguishes between "neo-fascism", which it describes as a global phenomenon rooted in the crisis of neoliberalism, and classical fascism.

Train crushes woman loco pilot returning after 'washroom break'

Train crushes woman loco pilot returning after 'washroom break'

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

A woman loco pilot was killed in the Malda division of West Bengal after being hit by a speeding train while returning from a washroom break. The incident has sparked outrage among loco pilots' unions who have been demanding improved washroom facilities and safety measures for female drivers. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for safe working conditions for women loco pilots, who face numerous challenges due to the lack of basic amenities and support.

Nithyananda sacked as successor of Madurai mutt

Nithyananda sacked as successor of Madurai mutt

Rediff.com20 Oct 2012

Self-styled godman Swami Nithyananda has been sacked by the senior pontiff as his successor of a 1500-year-old Saivaite Mutt in Madurai. Nityananda faces charges of rape and sexual harassment by some of his former devotees.

Jallikattu held in Madurai, 36 bull tamers injured

Jallikattu held in Madurai, 36 bull tamers injured

Rediff.com5 Feb 2017

More than 700 bull-tamers participated in the events, which were witnessed by thousands of spectators.

Madurai: DMK retains seat

Madurai: DMK retains seat

Rediff.com17 Oct 2006

The bypoll was necessitated following the death of DMK minister P G R Palanivelrajan.

'Imposing Hindi Will Affect BJP's Prospects In Tamil Nadu'

'Imposing Hindi Will Affect BJP's Prospects In Tamil Nadu'

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

'The vast majority of BJP supporters in Tamil Nadu can't speak any language other than Tamil.' 'When rural Tamil Nadu can't speak any other language than Tamil, how are they going to convince them that they have to learn Hindi?'

India's U-19 Queens: Meet the stars of World Cup triumph

India's U-19 Queens: Meet the stars of World Cup triumph

Rediff.com2 Feb 2025

A look at some of India's key performers in the Under-19 T20 World Cup.

Was mocked on streets for learning Hindi: Sitharaman

Was mocked on streets for learning Hindi: Sitharaman

Rediff.com3 Dec 2024

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday expressed anguish over not being allowed to learn Hindi in Tamil Nadu as a student and was even mocked on the streets for attempting to learn the language.

SpiceJet spreads its wings, adds Madurai

SpiceJet spreads its wings, adds Madurai

Rediff.com27 Sep 2010

The first flight with over 150 passengers from Chennai landed here this morning as the 'cultural capital' was included in the list of one of the major low-cost airliners in India.

'Unapologetically Indian' In New York

'Unapologetically Indian' In New York

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

'I always cook from my heart,' says New York Chef Vijaya Kumar who won his third Michelin Star recently.

Security alert as US-bound AI flight among 7 get bomb threat on X

Security alert as US-bound AI flight among 7 get bomb threat on X

Rediff.com16 Oct 2024

The threats via microblogging platform X came a day after three international flights originating from Mumbai received bomb threats, causing trouble to hundreds of passengers and airline crew.

Puja, abhishekam at Kamala's ancestral village in TN

Puja, abhishekam at Kamala's ancestral village in TN

Rediff.com5 Nov 2024

An air of excitement and expectancy pervades Thulasendrapuram village in Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu hoping that Democrat Kamala Harris, current vice president, wins the US presidential elections.

AIIMS to be set up in Thoppur near Madurai, EPS thanks PM

AIIMS to be set up in Thoppur near Madurai, EPS thanks PM

Rediff.com20 Jun 2018

"The 750-bed modern facility will be set up at Thoppur near Madurai at an estimated cost of Rs 1,500 crore," Palaniswami said.

75 per cent polling in Madurai bypoll

75 per cent polling in Madurai bypoll

Rediff.com26 Jun 2007

According to rough figures available, about 65 per cent of the voters exercised their franchise.

Madurai: 1,500 kg of explosives seized

Madurai: 1,500 kg of explosives seized

Rediff.com30 Nov 2006

The vehicle met with the accident at Manamadurai, about 40 km from Madurai, late on Wednesday night.

Madurai Veeran's music is okay

Madurai Veeran's music is okay

Rediff.com5 Apr 2007

Madurai Veeran's album is reasonably good. The film stars Ramesh and Saloni in the lead roles.

Madurai's Meenakshi temple gets ISO accreditation

Madurai's Meenakshi temple gets ISO accreditation

Rediff.com11 Mar 2011

The Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple in Madurai, famous for its sculptural beauty and towers, has received the International Organisation for Standardisation 9001:2008 certification. The certification was given for providing high quality services in terms of safety, security and maintaining cleanliness in the temple premises.