News for 'Mughal India'

Yeh Hai India: Historic Mughal Road To Reopen

Yeh Hai India: Historic Mughal Road To Reopen

Rediff.com8 Apr 2022

The 83 km long road has been used since the time of the Mughals.

Amid row over Aurangzeb's tomb, Shah says...

Amid row over Aurangzeb's tomb, Shah says...

Rediff.com12 Apr 2025

Shah said Shivaji Maharaj defeated "Mughal shahi" (rule of Mughals).

'May All Know The Greatness Of India'

'May All Know The Greatness Of India'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Many ordinary citizens are drawn to by a sense of history and India's remarkable journey from bondage to freedom which culminated in this monumental building.

Aurangzeb's tomb declared a 'no drone zone' amid violence

Aurangzeb's tomb declared a 'no drone zone' amid violence

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

Amidst growing calls for the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb at Khultabad in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, the administration has declared the area a 'no drone zone' and deployed additional security forces. The move comes after demonstrations and online posts demanding the tomb's removal, with some of these posts leading to violence in Nagpur. Authorities are actively monitoring and removing provocative content from social media platforms.

How the Mughals changed India

How the Mughals changed India

Rediff.com26 Nov 2018

'It was the Mughals who first established standard units of measurement and maintained offices of meticulous record keepers and auditors, departing from the more haphazard methods of earlier regimes.' 'By the end of the 16th century, their revenue and judicial administrations exhibited an obsessive preoccupation with order, the efficient management of time, and a spirit of rational self-control -- all of them characteristics of early modernity,' point out Sheldon Pollock and Benjamin Ellman.

Allahabad HC junks Sambhal mosque's plea against survey

Allahabad HC junks Sambhal mosque's plea against survey

Rediff.com19 May 2025

The Committee of Management, Shahi Jama Masjid, moved the high court challenging the suit and the Sambhal court order which directed the survey through an advocate commissioner.

Send him to UP, says Yogi as Maha assembly suspends Abu Azmi

Send him to UP, says Yogi as Maha assembly suspends Abu Azmi

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Asim Azmi was on Wednesday suspended from the Maharashtra legislative assembly till the ongoing budget session ends on March 26, over his remarks eulogizing Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

Scribe refuses to remove Ram Navami videos on X

Scribe refuses to remove Ram Navami videos on X

Rediff.com12 Apr 2025

A journalist in Mumbai has refused to take down videos of a Ram Navami procession that featured participants shouting profanities and making threats against Muslims. The journalist, Kunal Purohit, has asserted that he is only "documenting hate." Mumbai police have registered an FIR against three individuals for using a loudspeaker to play obscene songs during the procession.

Religion-based quota against Constitution, BR Ambedkar: RSS

Religion-based quota against Constitution, BR Ambedkar: RSS

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale has criticized the Karnataka government's decision to provide four per cent reservation for Muslims in government contracts, stating that the Constitution does not allow religion-based quotas. He also said that such reservations go against the wishes of B R Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. He also spoke about the controversy over Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's grave in Maharashtra, stating that people who went against the ethos of India were made icons. Hosabale lauded figures like Rajput king Maharana Pratap for resisting Mughal emperor Akbar and said those who resisted invaders were also "freedom fighters". He also spoke about the RSS's idea of 'One Nation, One Culture', stating that it draws inspiration from India's rich cultural heritage and ethos.

Aurangzeb praise: Court urges Azmi to exercise restraint

Aurangzeb praise: Court urges Azmi to exercise restraint

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

A Mumbai court has granted anticipatory bail to Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi in a case filed against him for his remarks praising Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. The court, however, cautioned Azmi to exercise restraint during interviews, warning that any irresponsible statement could spark riots. The case stems from Azmi's remarks during an interview where he praised Aurangzeb's rule and claimed that India's GDP during his reign accounted for 24 percent of the world's GDP. Azmi's lawyer argued that his client's statements were made spontaneously and without any malicious intent, while the prosecution opposed the bail plea, arguing that the remarks were made in a sensitive time following the release of a film based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a revered Maratha king who was captured by Aurangzeb. The court noted that the investigation was at a preliminary stage and that the investigating officer did not have the video recording of the interview when the case was filed. The court also expressed concern over the potential for Azmi's remarks to incite violence.

India revels in Holi, Friday prayers held peacefully

India revels in Holi, Friday prayers held peacefully

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Holi was celebrated with pomp and splendor across India on Friday, with people soaking in the festivities by smearing 'gulaal' on each other and exchanging greetings and sweets. Homes and streets wore a colourful look as the revellers splashed colours and feasted on traditional delicacies. Public transport did not ply in the morning in most major cities while metro services started functioning from noon. As Holi coincided with the second Friday prayers during the holy Islamic month of Ramzan, security -- including increased patrolling and picketing -- was beefed up in several states. In Delhi, more than 25,000 security personnel were deployed. Police closely monitored about 300 sensitive areas with CCTV cameras and drones.

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.

'Hindu philosophy was sophisticated under Mughals'

'Hindu philosophy was sophisticated under Mughals'

Rediff.com6 Dec 2021

'Second-class citizenship would have been meaningless to a Hindu in the Mughal empire.'

Disputed 'private well' near Sambhal mosque on govt land, UP tells SC

Disputed 'private well' near Sambhal mosque on govt land, UP tells SC

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government has informed the Supreme Court that the disputed "private well" near the Mughal-era Jama Masjid mosque in Sambhal was situated on public land. The state government said the petitioner failed to disclose there was a well within the boundary walls of the mosque known locally as "yagna koop". The committee, in a spot inspection, found that the well was situated outside the mosque boundary wall, the report said. The report said the state was committed to ensuring peace and harmony in the region and any restraint on the use of such public wells by the community at large may not help in achieving that goal.

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.

From Private Chefs to Jungle Bubbles

From Private Chefs to Jungle Bubbles

Rediff.com14 Apr 2025

From high-end villas with private sommeliers to exclusive showcases at cultural centres to private sessions with Michelin-starred chefs and celebrities, hotel chains are pulling out all the stops

Mumbai Police initiates probe against Abu Azmi over Aurangzeb remark

Mumbai Police initiates probe against Abu Azmi over Aurangzeb remark

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

Azmi said during Aurangzeb's reign, India's border reached Afghanistan and Burma (Myanmar).

Nagpur Municipal chief apologizes to HC for demolition

Nagpur Municipal chief apologizes to HC for demolition

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

The Nagpur municipal chief has offered an unconditional apology to the Bombay High Court for the demolition of houses belonging to accused in a riots case, citing ignorance of Supreme Court guidelines on such actions. The civic officials were unaware of the Supreme Court's order, which mandates procedural safeguards before demolishing properties linked to riots accused, the commissioner stated in an affidavit. The court has granted the Maharashtra government two weeks to respond to the matter.

What Politicians Said In Lead-Up To Nagpur Riots

What Politicians Said In Lead-Up To Nagpur Riots

Rediff.com19 Mar 2025

Before the violence and rioting that erupted in Nagpur on Monday, March 17, over Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb came provocative statements from various political leaders.

ASI team assesses Sambhal mosque for whitewashing after court order

ASI team assesses Sambhal mosque for whitewashing after court order

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

An Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team on Thursday carried out measurements and assessments ahead of the planned whitewashing and renovation work of the Shahi Jama Masjid, officials said.

No Ramzan decorations in Sambhal mosque without ASI nod: DM

No Ramzan decorations in Sambhal mosque without ASI nod: DM

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

The Sambhal administration in Uttar Pradesh has stated that no work should be carried out on the Shahi Jama Masjid without the approval of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This decision comes after the mosque's management committee sought permission to redecorate the mosque ahead of Ramzan. The matter is currently pending in court, and the property belongs to the ASI. The administration has emphasized that no tampering with the mosque is allowed until the ASI grants permission.

Can RSS Put Aurangzeb's Ghost To Rest in Maharashtra?

Can RSS Put Aurangzeb's Ghost To Rest in Maharashtra?

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

Senior RSS leader Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi's call to drop the Aurangzeb tomb controversy challenges decades of communal rhetoric in Maharashtra, igniting hopes for unity and a balanced historical narrative.

Modi discussed retirement with RSS: Raut; He will be back: Fadnavis

Modi discussed retirement with RSS: Raut; He will be back: Fadnavis

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday dismissed speculation about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's successor, asserting that Modi would continue to lead the country for many more years.

6 Historicals To Look Forward To

6 Historicals To Look Forward To

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

The blazing success of Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava has laid out a path for more eventful year at the movies, as an exciting line-up of historical biopics queue up for the big screen.

SP's Abu Azmi retracts Aurangzeb remark after massive uproar

SP's Abu Azmi retracts Aurangzeb remark after massive uproar

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Asim Azmi's remarks praising Mughal emperor Aurangzeb sparked outrage in the Maharashtra legislature, leading to calls for his suspension and accusations of treason. The issue, which was politicized by both the ruling coalition and opposition parties, led to the adjournment of both Houses of the state legislature. Azmi later retracted his statements, saying they were twisted and that he had not made any derogatory remarks against Shivaji Maharaj or Sambhaji Maharaj. The BJP, however, seized the opportunity to slam the Congress and other opposition parties, accusing them of trying to "eradicate" Sanatan Dharma. The Mumbai police have initiated a probe into the matter, registering a case against Azmi for his remarks.

'Small thing, got really wild': Abu Azmi's son breaks silence on Goa clash

'Small thing, got really wild': Abu Azmi's son breaks silence on Goa clash

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

Abu Farhan Azmi, son of Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi, has denied brandishing a weapon in a fight in Goa, calling the incident a "small thing" that got out of hand. He maintains he is not against the coastal state and has been visiting Goa for 20 years. Azmi's father has recently faced criticism for comments praising Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.

National winter games in Kashmir postponed

National winter games in Kashmir postponed

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

Around 300 athletes were expected to compete in four snow sports -- ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, snowboard, and Nordic skiing -- in the games, which had been due to be held from February 22 to 25.

Food Trends At Weddings Reach New Heights

Food Trends At Weddings Reach New Heights

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Customised restaurant recreations, cafe setups, pop-ups by Michelin-star chefs, bespoke table linens with monograms and couple-themed hashtags.

Whitewashing of Sambhal mosque begins amid Hindu side's objection

Whitewashing of Sambhal mosque begins amid Hindu side's objection

Rediff.com16 Mar 2025

The Allahabad high court on March 12 directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to undertake and complete the whitewashing at the mosque within one week.

Removal of Aurangzeb's grave won't serve any purpose: Athawale

Removal of Aurangzeb's grave won't serve any purpose: Athawale

Rediff.com16 Mar 2025

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has voiced his opposition to the demand for demolition of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's grave in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, saying its removal will not serve any purpose. Athawale said that since Aurangzeb was buried there, his tomb should remain undisturbed. The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar administration has barred Hindutva leader Milind Ekbote from entering the district from March 16 to April 5 amid calls from some outfits to remove Aurangzeb's grave. Security has been heightened around the site and visitors are being checked thoroughly.

Did Shami Take A Dip In The Sangam, As Yogi said?

Did Shami Take A Dip In The Sangam, As Yogi said?

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

Neither Mohammed Shami nor Mohammed Kaif traveled to the Maha Kumbh Mela.

Jammu-Srinagar highway reopens after snowfall; flight services resume

Jammu-Srinagar highway reopens after snowfall; flight services resume

Rediff.com29 Dec 2024

The 270-km Jammu-Srinagar highway reopened on Sunday after a day-long closure due to heavy snowfall, allowing stranded vehicles to proceed to their destinations. However, several other important inter-district routes, including the Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass, Sonamarg-Kargil inter-UT road, and Bhaderwah-Chamba inter-state road, remained closed for vehicular traffic due to heavy snowfall.

Pak blames India for worsening smog in Lahore

Pak blames India for worsening smog in Lahore

Rediff.com4 Nov 2024

Toxic grey smog has sickened tens of thousands of people, mainly children and elderly people, since last month when the air quality started worsening in Lahore, the city bordering India.

MP Cong leader likens Parshuram to Aurangzeb; gets showcause notice

MP Cong leader likens Parshuram to Aurangzeb; gets showcause notice

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

The notice further highlights that the Congress party is a secular-based party, which respects every religion and society in India equally.

'Shivaji, Sambhaji Were Secular, Visionary Kings'

'Shivaji, Sambhaji Were Secular, Visionary Kings'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

'Shivaji and Sambhaji followed the gospel of humanity. 'They did not discriminate based on religion, caste, or colour.' 'That is the beauty of Shivaji and Sambhaji's Hindvi Swaraj.'

History In Minutes: Javed Akhtar's Freedom Fighter Family

History In Minutes: Javed Akhtar's Freedom Fighter Family

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

Syed Firdaus Ashraf offers a ready reckoner on Javed Akhtar's great great grandfather Fazl e Haq Khairabadi who fought the British empire during the 1857 Mutiny and was imprisoned in the Cellular Jail in Port Blair.

Why Chhaava Has Become Controversial

Why Chhaava Has Become Controversial

Rediff.com27 Jan 2025

Loud music, bombastic action scenes, over-the-top dialogues that don't have any ring of truth to it followed by scenes of blood-oozing bodies floating in a river definitely don't make for a magnum opus!' exclaims Prasanna D Zore after watching the Chhaava trailer.

BJP welcomes renaming of Mughal Gardens; focus on inflation, says Oppn

BJP welcomes renaming of Mughal Gardens; focus on inflation, says Oppn

Rediff.com28 Jan 2023

'Who knows, they might now want to rename the Eden Gardens and call it Modi Gardens!'

Karni Sena workers attack SP MP's house in Agra over Rana Sanga remarks

Karni Sena workers attack SP MP's house in Agra over Rana Sanga remarks

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

The residence of Samajwadi Party (SP) Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Lal Suman was attacked in Agra by alleged workers of the Karni Sena, days after his remarks in Parliament on Rana Sanga triggered a row. The attack comes as the latest instance of violence in India stemming from historical figures and caste-based tensions. The Karni Sena demanded an apology from Suman and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav for "insulting" their hero, while Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Uttar Pradesh government for its claims of "zero tolerance" against crime.

Check Out Wedding Decor Trends!

Check Out Wedding Decor Trends!

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

Wedding decor is going beyond aesthetics, embracing grand elements in a nod to the couples' personal stories.