News for 'Maharaj'

Controversial 'Pistulya Maharaj' Faces Case Over Rs 3.6 Crore Fund Misappropriation

Controversial 'Pistulya Maharaj' Faces Case Over Rs 3.6 Crore Fund Misappropriation

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A spiritual preacher, Kishor Dhondiram Jadhav alias 'Pistulya Maharaj', and his associates have been booked in Latur, Maharashtra, for allegedly misappropriating Rs 3.6 crore collected during a religious event. The funds were meant for temple construction but were unaccounted for, leading to protests by Warkaris.

Spiritual preacher aplogises over Shivaji Maharaj remarks

Spiritual preacher aplogises over Shivaji Maharaj remarks

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Dhirendra Shastri, head of Bageshwar Dham, has apologised for his remarks on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj after facing backlash in Maharashtra. He claimed his comments were twisted on social media and clarified his stance on dedicating children to the RSS.

Mumbai Indians sign Keshav Maharaj as Santner's replacement

Mumbai Indians sign Keshav Maharaj as Santner's replacement

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

South African spinner Keshav Maharaj has been signed by Mumbai Indians as a replacement for New Zealand's Mitchell Santner, who sustained a shoulder injury during a match against Chennai Super Kings.

Ayodhya trust treasurer 'won't quit', blames SBI employees

Ayodhya trust treasurer 'won't quit', blames SBI employees

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, acknowledged supervisory lapses at the Ayodhya Ram temple following alleged donation theft, but stated he would not resign as he does not consider himself personally at fault. He estimated the theft could be around Rs 3 crore and criticised SBI for not verifying employee credentials.

GDN To Dada: 10 Coming Biopics That Have Our Attention

GDN To Dada: 10 Coming Biopics That Have Our Attention

Rediff.com7 days ago

From Dr A P J Abdul Kalam to Sourav Ganguly, these coming biopics are bringing some of India's most fascinating lives to the big screen.

Ram Temple theft: Police seek custody of 2 accused after fresh disclosure

Ram Temple theft: Police seek custody of 2 accused after fresh disclosure

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Police investigating the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya have requested seven-day custody for two jailed accused, Ram Shankar Yadav and Subhash Srivastava. This request follows new disclosures that necessitate further verification and recovery of evidence. The court is set to hear the remand application on July 14, as investigators scrutinise financial transactions and property purchases to trace the diverted funds.

Mumbai drenched by 300 mm rain; flight services hit, two killed

Mumbai drenched by 300 mm rain; flight services hit, two killed

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Heavy rainfall in Mumbai on Sunday led to significant disruptions, including a one-hour suspension of flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, widespread waterlogging, and multiple treefall incidents. One person died in Kurla due to a tree collapse, marking the second such fatality in a week. The India Meteorological Department had issued a 'red' alert, with several areas recording over 200 mm of rain.

Pro-CJP protests in Mumbai, Sena-UBT says FIRs being filed

Pro-CJP protests in Mumbai, Sena-UBT says FIRs being filed

Rediff.com2 days ago

Mumbai witnessed a second consecutive day of protests by Opposition parties and residents, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET fiasco and condemning the police crackdown on a CJP-led march in Delhi.

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

Rediff.com4 hours ago

A crucial meeting of around 250 seers and VHP functionaries in Ayodhya will address issues concerning the Ram temple, including ensuring adherence to Vaishnav-Ramanandi traditions, restoring devotee confidence after an alleged donation theft, and deliberating on the Trust's management. The meeting follows deferred decisions by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on key appointments.

UP's Ayush Malik, who converted to Islam, returns to Hinduism

UP's Ayush Malik, who converted to Islam, returns to Hinduism

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Ayush Malik, a resident of Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, who had converted to Islam earlier this year, has now returned to Hinduism. He stated that his decision was influenced by the distress his initial conversion caused his parents. This reconversion follows a police investigation into his initial conversion under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, where four people have been arrested.

Navi Mumbai Airport starts international operations with Abu Dhabi service

Navi Mumbai Airport starts international operations with Abu Dhabi service

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has officially commenced its international flight operations with an Air India Express service to Abu Dhabi, marking a significant boost in connectivity for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and establishing a new global gateway.

RSS expresses 'grief' over donation theft in Ayodhya

RSS expresses 'grief' over donation theft in Ayodhya

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The RSS's annual Akhil Bharatiya Prant Pracharak Baithak in Belagavi addressed alleged irregularities in the counting of donation box offerings at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, expressing confidence in the ongoing SIT probe. The meeting also reviewed training activities, centenary year programmes, and discussed critical issues such as population imbalance and drug abuse.

ETPL: Glasgow Cosmic appoint Varun Aaron as bowling coach

ETPL: Glasgow Cosmic appoint Varun Aaron as bowling coach

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Glasgow Cosmic have appointed former India fast bowler Varun Aaron as the team's bowling coach ahead of the inaugural season of the European T20 Premier League.

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh government shortly, sources said on Thursday.

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Police are intensifying their investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, preparing to seek custodial remand for three more accused. A Special Investigation Team's preliminary report found prima facie evidence of theft and pilferage during donation counting, with CCTV footage showing personnel concealing cash.

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Police are intensifying their investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, preparing to seek custodial remand for three more accused. A Special Investigation Team's preliminary report found prima facie evidence of theft and pilferage during donation counting, with CCTV footage showing personnel concealing cash.

Maha schools must teach Marathi or lose recognition: Minister

Maha schools must teach Marathi or lose recognition: Minister

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Maharashtra minister Dada Bhuse on Monday said teaching of Marathi language and conduct of examination of the subject have been legally made mandatory in schools of all mediums across the state, and those institutions that fail to comply could face cancellation of recognition.

Virat, Anushka celebrate IPL 2026 win with ashram visit in Vrindavan

Virat, Anushka celebrate IPL 2026 win with ashram visit in Vrindavan

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma visited the ashram of Sant Premanand Maharaj in Vrindavan to seek blessings after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL victory.

Akshaye Khanna's 7 Best Villain Acts: From Humraaz To Dhurandhar

Akshaye Khanna's 7 Best Villain Acts: From Humraaz To Dhurandhar

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Long before Rehman Dakait made the Internet swoon, Akshaye Khanna had already mastered the art of stealing the show from the dark side.

Mumbai Customs Nabs Banker In Rs 11.8 Crore Drug Bust

Mumbai Customs Nabs Banker In Rs 11.8 Crore Drug Bust

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Mumbai Customs has arrested a 29-year-old woman, a private bank employee and beauty pageant runner-up, for allegedly smuggling 11.8 kg of hydroponic weed worth Rs 11.8 crore from Bangkok into India. She was apprehended at CSMIA and has been sent to judicial custody under the NDPS Act.

Champat Rai's resignation accepted, interim general secretary appointed

Champat Rai's resignation accepted, interim general secretary appointed

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Ram temple trust on Monday accepted the resignations of Champat Rai as its general secretary and member Anil Mishra in the wake of embezzlement of donations. Trustee Krishna Mohan has been named as interim general secretary. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust also announced the formation of a three-member committee to identify a chief executive officer (CEO) for the temple trust.

SIT probe reveals systematic theft, lapses at Ram Temple

SIT probe reveals systematic theft, lapses at Ram Temple

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged theft and embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has found repeated instances of employees concealing cash during counting and flagged serious security and supervision lapses. The preliminary report, shared with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, indicates systematic irregularities and financial discrepancies among employees, leading to arrests and resignations within the trust.

How DRI Uncovered A Rs 5 Crore Gold Smuggling Syndicate

How DRI Uncovered A Rs 5 Crore Gold Smuggling Syndicate

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a major gold-smuggling syndicate at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, seizing 3.2 kg of gold worth Rs 5 crore. Seven individuals, including Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan nationals and three airport staff, have been arrested in connection with "Operation Golden Nexus."

T20 World Cup: 'Playing in Ahmedabad no big advantage for South Africa': Keshav Maharaj

T20 World Cup: 'Playing in Ahmedabad no big advantage for South Africa': Keshav Maharaj

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Spinner Keshav Maharaj stressed the importance of adapting quickly to conditions as South Africa prepares for a crucial T20 World Cup Super 8 match against the West Indies.

Matthew Hayden: ETPL's future lies in developing Europe's next cricket stars

Matthew Hayden: ETPL's future lies in developing Europe's next cricket stars

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Matthew Hayden says the European T20 Premier League can establish itself as a talent-development platform for Europe's associate nations, stressing that ETPL's strength lies in creating pathways to global franchise cricket rather than competing with the IPL.

'Within framework of law': Nagpur top cop defends RSS event speech

'Within framework of law': Nagpur top cop defends RSS event speech

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Nagpur Commissioner of Police Vishwas Nangare Patil has addressed the controversy surrounding an old video where he appeared to praise the RSS. He asserted that his remarks at the event were within legal frameworks and did not violate service rules, emphasising his commitment to the Constitution and respect for all communities. The controversy arose after the Maharashtra Congress and MNS chief Raj Thackeray criticised his speech, questioning his neutrality.

Mrs Kerala Runner-Up Arrested In Rs 11.8 Crore Drug Smuggling Case

Mrs Kerala Runner-Up Arrested In Rs 11.8 Crore Drug Smuggling Case

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A 29-year-old private bank employee and former 'Mrs Kerala' beauty pageant runner-up, Harsha Sunny, has been arrested by Mumbai Customs for allegedly smuggling 11.8 kg of hydroponic weed, valued at Rs 11.8 crore, from Bangkok. She claims she was unaware of the bag's contents, stating she was exploited by traffickers.

CJP urges Modi to 'break silence', farmers to join protest

CJP urges Modi to 'break silence', farmers to join protest

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities, has entered its 15th day, garnering support from AAP MP Sanjay Singh and CPI(M) MP John Brittas. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his hunger strike, while a student leader from AISA was hospitalised after her condition turned critical.

Bhagwat's Haldighati Claim Diminishes History

Bhagwat's Haldighati Claim Diminishes History

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Maharana Pratap became a hero not because he won a battle, but because he continued fighting after he lost one, asserts Harishchandra.

Pune groom-to-be killed in 400-foot plunge from fort during birthday trip

Pune groom-to-be killed in 400-foot plunge from fort during birthday trip

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

A man celebrating his fiance's birthday tragically fell 400 feet to his death from Maharashtra's historic Lohagad fort while attempting to take photographs amidst strong winds.

Sunny Deol: 'I Was Struggling When I Did Damini'

Sunny Deol: 'I Was Struggling When I Did Damini'

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

'I never imagined my character would become so big. After Damini, I didn't get a chance to play a lawyer. I was very happy when Ikka was offered to me.'

Farah-Riteish Bring Lock Upp: Sach Ya Saza On OTT

Farah-Riteish Bring Lock Upp: Sach Ya Saza On OTT

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Brace yourself for tons of drama on OTT this week.

Allahabad High Court Seeks UP Government's Stand On History Sheet Plea

Allahabad High Court Seeks UP Government's Stand On History Sheet Plea

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Allahabad High Court has requested the Uttar Pradesh government to respond to a petition filed by Ashutosh Maharaj, challenging the opening of his history sheet by the police. Maharaj, who is also involved in the Shahi Idgah-Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute, claims his name should be removed from the police surveillance register.

Seat Dispute Leads To Stabbing On Mumbai Local Train

Seat Dispute Leads To Stabbing On Mumbai Local Train

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Two individuals have been arrested by the Government Railway Police (GRP) for allegedly stabbing a man on a Mumbai local train following a dispute over a seat. The victim sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment, while a search is on for a third accused.

Oxford University Press apologises for book on Shivaji Maharaj

Oxford University Press apologises for book on Shivaji Maharaj

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

Oxford University Press India has issued an apology to Udayanraje Bhosale, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, over 'unverified statements' made about the Maratha king in a book published over two decades ago. The apology addresses content in 'Shivaji: Hindu King in Islamic India' by James Laine, which sparked controversy and vandalism in 2004.

DRI Seizes Cocaine Worth 11.25 Crore At Mumbai Airport

DRI Seizes Cocaine Worth 11.25 Crore At Mumbai Airport

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 2.25 kg of cocaine valued at Rs 11.25 crore and arrested four foreign nationals at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.

Mumbai Airport Security Foils Attempt To Smuggle Rs 1.39 Crore In US Dollars

Mumbai Airport Security Foils Attempt To Smuggle Rs 1.39 Crore In US Dollars

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

CISF personnel apprehended a man from Chad at Mumbai airport for carrying USD 145,000 (worth Rs 1.39 crore) in his baggage. He was scheduled to fly to N'Djamena via Addis Ababa and has been handed over to Customs for further investigation.

Twist in Pune fort death: Fiancee, male friend held for realtor's fatal fall

Twist in Pune fort death: Fiancee, male friend held for realtor's fatal fall

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Police in Pune have detained the fiancee and a male friend of trekker Ketan Vishal Agarwal, who was initially believed to have died in an accidental fall at Lohagad fort. The case is now being investigated as a murder, with allegations that the two suspects pushed Agarwal into a deep gorge.

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Amid cross-voting from both ruling and Opposition ranks, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti on Monday swept 16 of the 17 Maharashtra Legislative Council seats from local authorities' constituencies even as Nashik delivered a surprise defeat to the governing bloc.

Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: 3 injured due to overcrowding at Shivneri fort

Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: 3 injured due to overcrowding at Shivneri fort

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

The legendary warrior king was born on February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort in Pune district.