News for 'Sanatan'

Meant to abolish caste system, Udhayanidhi clarifies on Sanatan remark

Meant to abolish caste system, Udhayanidhi clarifies on Sanatan remark

Rediff.com15 May 2026

DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has clarified his Sanatan Dharma eradication remark, stating that he meant to abolish the caste system that divides people into upper and lower castes, advocating for equal rights for all in temples and society.

Rahul Gandhi booked over Ram temple 'chanda chori' skit at Parl

Rahul Gandhi booked over Ram temple 'chanda chori' skit at Parl

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and seers have filed police complaints and FIRs against Rahul Gandhi, Pappu Yadav, and Awadhesh Prasad for a skit performed in Parliament, alleging it mocked Sanatan culture and ridiculed Indian traditions concerning Ram Temple donations.

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The controversy surrounding the Parliament Ram Mandir skit intensified on Sunday after a clash broke out at the residence of Purnia MP Pappu Yadav, who had portrayed a temple priest wearing saffron robes during the performance in Parliament on Friday.

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Rediff.com15 hours ago

A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused state Congress chief Ajay Rai of participating in a fish feast in Ayodhya during the holy month of Shravan, near the Ram temple. Rai has vehemently denied the allegations, challenging Adityanath to provide proof and threatening to resign if proven, while also demanding the CM's resignation if no evidence is found. The Congress party has defended the event, stating it was a Nishad community gathering with their own food traditions.

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

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

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

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.

'Scrutinise call records': Akhilesh Yadav alleges BJP link to Ram temple theft

'Scrutinise call records': Akhilesh Yadav alleges BJP link to Ram temple theft

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has intensified his attack on the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, demanding a scrutiny of call detail records of temple employees. He claims a significant majority of them have links to the BJP and accuses the ruling party of prioritising electoral gains over religious values amidst an ongoing SIT probe and recent resignations within the temple trust.

Bangladesh court grants bail to Hindu monk, but will remain in jail

Bangladesh court grants bail to Hindu monk, but will remain in jail

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Bangladesh's High Court has granted bail to Hindu rights leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in two cases, though he remains in prison due to four other pending charges, including murder and treason. His arrest in November 2024 on sedition charges had sparked protests and communal tensions, drawing concern from India and occurring amidst strained India-Bangladesh relations following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Oppn raises 'Amit Shah absent', chanda chori banners at Parl

Oppn raises 'Amit Shah absent', chanda chori banners at Parl

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Opposition MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a protest in the Parliament House complex against alleged donation theft at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and "police excesses" against student protesters. The INDIA bloc vowed to continue their agitation, demanding accountability from the government, particularly Home Minister Amit Shah, on these issues.

Ayodhya Ram Temple to train, certify priests for India, abroad

Ayodhya Ram Temple to train, certify priests for India, abroad

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The Ram temple trust's decision to establish a permanent institute for training and certifying Hindu priests is being seen by religious leaders and members of the Indian diaspora as a significant step towards addressing the growing demand for qualified 'archaks' (priests) not only in India but also overseas.

Brahmin Discontent May Reshape UP Politics

Brahmin Discontent May Reshape UP Politics

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

A caste recalibration is simmering just below the surface in UP.

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has invited applications for the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. This new position aims to strengthen administrative and financial management following alleged embezzlement concerns. The CEO will be appointed for a three-year term, overseeing various aspects from finance to pilgrim facilities, and must be an actively practising Hindu with specific managerial experience.

Badrinath Temple Donations Under Scanner: Employee Booked

Badrinath Temple Donations Under Scanner: Employee Booked

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A suspended employee of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has been booked for alleged irregularities in handling donations at the Badrinath temple. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami condemned the act, calling it a "sin akin to cow slaughter," while a high-level government inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The Congress party has also demanded a judicial probe.

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

'Our new film, Shri Ram Bhoomi, begins shooting today in Ayodhya. How can any new work begin without the blessings of Ram Lalla and Lord Hanuman?'

Four-member temple panel to probe Badrinath Dham donation irregularities

Four-member temple panel to probe Badrinath Dham donation irregularities

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has formed a four-member panel to investigate alleged irregularities in pilgrims' offerings and donations at Badrinath Dham. The allegations, which went viral on social media, have sparked political controversy in Uttarakhand, with the Congress demanding strict action. The inquiry will examine CCTV footage and statements, with a report due in seven days.

UP Cong chief claims house arrest ahead of Ram Temple visit

UP Cong chief claims house arrest ahead of Ram Temple visit

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai claims he was placed under "house arrest" in Ayodhya to prevent him from visiting the Ram temple amidst an ongoing controversy over alleged embezzlement of donations. Other Congress delegation members were also reportedly stopped or detained, sparking protests and further political debate.

India's Cultural Diplomacy: Restoring Shared Heritage Across Asia

India's Cultural Diplomacy: Restoring Shared Heritage Across Asia

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

India has actively engaged in cultural diplomacy over the past 12 years, providing grant assistance and expertise for the restoration and conservation of significant heritage sites, including temples and archaeological complexes, across multiple Asian countries, reinforcing shared civilisational ties.

Donated silver bricks, ornaments are safe: Ram Mandir trust amid row

Donated silver bricks, ornaments are safe: Ram Mandir trust amid row

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The trustees are "shocked" by the developments and are duty-bound to ensure that a fair inquiry is conducted and the faith of devotees is restored.

Had no role in daily donation collection at Ram Temple: Trust treasurer

Had no role in daily donation collection at Ram Temple: Trust treasurer

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Under the lens over serious lapses in the donation management system at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Govind Dev Giri, has said that all audit reports were "safe" and that he had no role in the daily donation collection process at the temple.

'My character questioned': Influencer Harsha quits promoting Sanatan Dharma

'My character questioned': Influencer Harsha quits promoting Sanatan Dharma

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Influencer Harsha Richhariya, known for promoting Sanatan Dharma, has decided to step away from the religious path due to continuous criticism and mental stress.

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A day after his resignation was accepted by the Ram temple trust, its former general secretary Champat Rai on Tuesday said he would respond to all allegations of donation embezzlement after the SIT submits its final report, even as opposition parties alleged a "cover-up" and stepped up the demand for its dissolution.

Remarks against St Francis Xavier spark outrage in Goa

Remarks against St Francis Xavier spark outrage in Goa

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

A political row has erupted in Goa after a right-wing speaker allegedly made objectionable remarks against St. Francis Xavier, Goa's patron saint, leading to a police complaint and demands for his arrest.

Haridwar seers declare war on 'veg biryani'; to target 'kebabs'next

Haridwar seers declare war on 'veg biryani'; to target 'kebabs'next

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A group of seers, led by the Akhand Parshuram Akhada, has launched a campaign in Uttarakhand's Haridwar to ban the sale of food under the name "veg biryani".

Right-wing activist booked for remarks against Goa's patron saint

Right-wing activist booked for remarks against Goa's patron saint

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Goa Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar for allegedly making objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. The controversy erupted after a video of Khattar's address at an event went viral, leading to widespread condemnation and demands for his arrest.

Why Goa Police Filed FIR Against Right Wing Speaker

Why Goa Police Filed FIR Against Right Wing Speaker

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Goa Police have registered an FIR against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar for allegedly making objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa, sparking political outrage and demands for his arrest.

Sacked civic workers in MP vow to leave 'Sanatan Dharma'

Sacked civic workers in MP vow to leave 'Sanatan Dharma'

Rediff.com14 Oct 2025

More than 150 daily wage employees of Chanderi Municipality in Madhya Pradesh's Ashoknagar district have threatened to renounce the "Sanatan Dharma" and embrace some other religion en masse after Diwali to protest their removal from service.

Goa Police File FIR Over Remarks Against Saint

Goa Police File FIR Over Remarks Against Saint

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Goa Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar over his alleged objectionable remarks against St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the state. The controversy erupted after a video of Khattar addressing an event went viral, leading to widespread condemnation and demands for his arrest.

Sara Ali Khan Barred From Kedarnath Temple

Sara Ali Khan Barred From Kedarnath Temple

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Sara Ali Khan's access to the Kedarnath Temple is now contingent on proving her allegiance to Sanatan Dharma, sparking debate about religious requirements for temple visits in India.

Goa Police Seek Arrest Of Speaker Over Offensive Remarks

Goa Police Seek Arrest Of Speaker Over Offensive Remarks

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

A local court has issued a non-bailable warrant against right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar, wanted by Goa Police for allegedly making offensive remarks against St Francis Xavier.

Sara Ali Khan can enter Badrinath, Kedarnath temples only if...: Temple committee chairman

Sara Ali Khan can enter Badrinath, Kedarnath temples only if...: Temple committee chairman

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Film actress Sara Ali Khan's entry to Badrinath and Kedarnath temple complexes is contingent on submitting an affidavit declaring her faith in Sanatan Dharma, according to the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee chairman.

Gaya's Vishnupad Corridor Project: 'Vikas Nahi, Vinash Hai'

Gaya's Vishnupad Corridor Project: 'Vikas Nahi, Vinash Hai'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Priests see red over the Rs 2,390 crore project to overhaul infrastructure around one of Bihar's most significant pilgrimage site, particularly for those performing pind daan.

Congress Leader Booked For Hurting Religious Sentiments In Goa

Congress Leader Booked For Hurting Religious Sentiments In Goa

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Two FIRs have been registered against Congress leader Girish Chodankar and tribal leader Govind Shirodkar in Goa for allegedly hurting religious sentiments, following protests by the Hindu Ekta Samiti.

'Enemies of Sanatan Dharma': AAP, BJP spar over CM's Karwa Chauth event

'Enemies of Sanatan Dharma': AAP, BJP spar over CM's Karwa Chauth event

Rediff.com15 Oct 2025

The AAP and BJP have engaged in a war of words over Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's Karwa Chauth celebration, with the AAP mocking the event and the BJP accusing them of being "enemies of Sanatan Dharma."

Goa Congress MLA Files Fresh Complaint Against Right Wing Leader

Goa Congress MLA Files Fresh Complaint Against Right Wing Leader

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

A Goa Congress MLA has filed a new complaint against right-wing leader Gautam Khattar, citing an old video of him allegedly making derogatory statements about St Francis Xavier.

'Sanatan Dharma' row: SC to hear Udhayanidhi Stalin's plea in 2026

'Sanatan Dharma' row: SC to hear Udhayanidhi Stalin's plea in 2026

Rediff.com1 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court said it would hear in 2026 the plea of Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin for clubbing all FIRs and complaints over his contentious "eradicate Sanatan Dharma" remarks in 2023 and transfer to one place.

Education alone can break chain of Sanatan: Kamal Haasan

Education alone can break chain of Sanatan: Kamal Haasan

Rediff.com4 Aug 2025

The Rajya Sabha MP said the National Entrance-cum-Eligibility Test has prevented access to medical education for so many children and the strength to change that rule of exam could emerge only from education.

Will implement women's quota, no power can stop us: Rajnath

Will implement women's quota, no power can stop us: Rajnath

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed the Congress and DMK over the defeat of the amendment bill regarding the Women's Reservation Act in Parliament but said the government was determined to implement it and that "no power in the world can stop us," from doing so.

Activist Arrested For Remarks Against St Francis Xavier

Activist Arrested For Remarks Against St Francis Xavier

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Right-wing speaker Gautam Khattar, wanted by Goa police for alleged offensive remarks against St Francis Xavier, has been arrested in Himachal Pradesh. The arrest follows a non-bailable warrant and a search operation after Khattar's speech sparked controversy.

IPL 2026: Barsapara ground staff rewarded for overcoming weather challenges

IPL 2026: Barsapara ground staff rewarded for overcoming weather challenges

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) has announced a cash reward of Rs 25 lakh for the ground staff after successfully hosting three IPL matches this season despite challenging weather conditions.

Goa Police To Issue Lookout Notice For Activist

Goa Police To Issue Lookout Notice For Activist

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Goa Police are planning to issue a Look Out Circular (LOC) against right-wing activist Gautam Khattar, who has been untraceable since an FIR was registered against him over remarks on St Francis Xavier.

Goa Police Hunt For Activist After Remarks On Saint

Goa Police Hunt For Activist After Remarks On Saint

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Goa police have formed teams to trace right-wing activist Gautam Khattar after his remarks against St Francis Xavier created a stir. Complaints have been filed against Khattar in multiple locations across Goa.