News for 'ceremonial traditions'

Halle Recreates Adrien's 2003 Oscar Kiss

Halle Recreates Adrien's 2003 Oscar Kiss

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

The ongoing 97th edition of The Academy Awards left fans of Adrien Brody and Halle Berry nostalgic.

Adityanath slams celebrating Salar Masood over Suheldev

Adityanath slams celebrating Salar Masood over Suheldev

Rediff.com11 Jun 2025

"I had said on the soil of Bahraich that glorification of foreign invaders should be stopped and that the national heroes must be honoured. And 1,000 years ago, such a tale of courage and bravery was written by Maharaja Suheldev on this very soil of Bahraich," Adityanath said.

Dalit groom rides horse, with 200 policemen in baraat

Dalit groom rides horse, with 200 policemen in baraat

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

A Dalit groom's wedding procession was held under heavy police protection in Rajasthan's Ajmer district after the bride's family expressed concerns about potential opposition from upper castes. Around 200 police personnel ensured the safety of the traditional 'Bindoli' ceremony, where the groom Vijay Regar rode a mare to his bride Aruna Khorwal's village. The bride's family had approached the authorities after anticipating possible resistance from locals. The police presence prevented any incidents and ensured the wedding procession took place peacefully.

PHOTOS: US VP JD Vance, family begin 4-day India visit

PHOTOS: US VP JD Vance, family begin 4-day India visit

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

US Vice President J D Vance and his wife Usha arrived in Delhi on Monday for a four-day visit. They were welcomed by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Vance's visit comes amid ongoing trade talks between India and the US. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a dinner for the Vances on Monday evening after holding talks with the US Vice President. Vance and his family will also travel to Jaipur and Agra during their trip.

All about the church service ahead of Trump's inauguration

All about the church service ahead of Trump's inauguration

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

The ceremonial proceedings are set to take place at the US Capitol Rotunda, where Trump will take the oath of office on Monday, roughly two weeks after his electoral college victory was officially certified by Congress.

76th Republic-Day Parade: India displays military might, cultural diversity

76th Republic-Day Parade: India displays military might, cultural diversity

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

India's rich cultural diversity, military prowess, economic progress and the strides it has taken in sectors, such as science and technology, were on full display at the 76th Republic-Day celebrations on Kartavya Path on Sunday, in the presence of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

'Amrit Snan' concludes at Kumbh hours after stampede

'Amrit Snan' concludes at Kumbh hours after stampede

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

The 'Amrit Snan' by saints and seers of all 13 akharas on Mauni Amavasya, which was deferred after a stampede at the Maha Kumbh, concluded at the Sangam on Wednesday evening, officials said.

Pix: Tearful farewells at Attari border crossing

Pix: Tearful farewells at Attari border crossing

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

As India's deadline for Pakistani citizens to leave the country passed, chaotic scenes unfolded at the Attari-Wagah land crossing in Punjab.

French Open plans grand tribute for retired 'King of Clay'

French Open plans grand tribute for retired 'King of Clay'

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

The French Open said it would also honour its 2000 women's champion Mary Pierce as well as fellow local favourite Richard Gasquet, who will retire after the tournament this year.

Modi gifts Gangajal from Kumbh to Mauritius Prez Dharam Gokhool

Modi gifts Gangajal from Kumbh to Mauritius Prez Dharam Gokhool

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day state visit to Mauritius, presented President Dharam Gokhool with Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh Mela. The visit marks Modi's return to Mauritius after nearly a decade, showcasing the strong relationship between India and Mauritius.

Pope's bond with India: Canonisations, new Cardinal and unfulfilled visit

Pope's bond with India: Canonisations, new Cardinal and unfulfilled visit

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Pope Francis's connection with India was marked by a mix of hopes and challenges. His long-held wish to visit the country remained unfulfilled, but he made significant contributions to the Catholic community in India, including elevating Indian figures to sainthood and appointing an Indian priest as a Cardinal. While his efforts to resolve conflicts within the Syro-Malabar Church were unsuccessful, his legacy will be remembered for his efforts to promote unity and understanding in the Catholic Church.

Keerthy-Anthony Steal A Kiss...

Keerthy-Anthony Steal A Kiss...

Rediff.com16 Dec 2024

After the traditional Iyengar ceremony on December 12, Keerthy Suresh and Anthony Thattil had a Christian wedding ceremony on Sunday, December 15.

Maanayata's Love Post For Sanjay Dutt

Maanayata's Love Post For Sanjay Dutt

Rediff.com11 Feb 2025

'''The generational trauma, the mood swings, the moral indifferences, the habits... sometimes it's not so pleasant anymore... But even then, if you choose to love the same person, such love... is the love of understanding.'

'Hindustan Is Heaven On Earth'

'Hindustan Is Heaven On Earth'

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

The cultural richness that began from a narrow bank of the Yamuna has continued for over 7 centuries. And you literally go underground for as little at Rs 50 to see it!

SoChay Are Married!

SoChay Are Married!

Rediff.com5 Dec 2024

The couple tied the knot in a traditional Telugu ceremony in Hyderabad.

A Different Nobel Prize Ceremony

A Different Nobel Prize Ceremony

Rediff.com7 Dec 2021

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Nobel Prizes were awarded in curtailed local ceremonies.

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.

Amit Shah confirms: India ready to host 2036 Olympics

Amit Shah confirms: India ready to host 2036 Olympics

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Home Minister Amit Shah has asserted India's readiness to host the 2036 Olympics at the closing ceremony of the 38th National Games in Haldwani.

India Honours Nepalese Army Chief

India Honours Nepalese Army Chief

Rediff.com12 Dec 2024

Three Thursdays after Nepalese President Ram Chand Poudel conferred the rank of honorary general of the Nepalese army on General Upendra Dwivedi in Kathmandu, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the honorary rank of general of the Indian Army on General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Nepal's army chief, at a special investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Property at core of Mewar royal family dispute

Property at core of Mewar royal family dispute

Rediff.com26 Nov 2024

A dispute over property and the right to succeed the titular head of the Mewar royal family in Udaipur, Rajasthan, has escalated into a major controversy. Vishvaraj Singh Mewar, a BJP MLA and the newly appointed titular head, was denied entry to the city palace and Eklingnathji temple by his uncle Arvind Singh Mewar and his son Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar. The incident sparked violent protests and the district administration has appointed a receiver to manage the controversial portion of the city palace where the 'Dhuni' (sacred fire) is located. This dispute raises questions about the future of the Mewar family's legacy and its historical traditions.

Classical ragas, mega drone show at Beating Retreat ceremony

Classical ragas, mega drone show at Beating Retreat ceremony

Rediff.com28 Jan 2023

The ceremony will begin with the massed band's "Agniveer" tune which will be followed by the enthralling tunes like "Almora", "Kedar Nath", "Sangam Dur", "Queen of Satpura", "Bhagirathi", "Konkan Sundari" by pipes and drums band, the defence ministry statement said.

Why Rajasthan cops boycotted Holi celebrations

Why Rajasthan cops boycotted Holi celebrations

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

Rajasthan Police personnel in several districts of the state boycotted Holi celebrations on Saturday to protest their demands, including promotions and removal of salary discrepancies. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot urged the current Chief Minister to intervene and address the police personnel's grievances, while Cabinet Minister Kirodi Lal Meena expressed support for their demands and promised to raise the issue with the government. The police personnel are calling for timely Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) meetings, an increase in mess allowance, and other benefits. The boycott highlights the ongoing concerns of police personnel regarding their professional development and financial well-being.

Manu, Gukesh, Harmanpreet honoured, para-athletes shine

Manu, Gukesh, Harmanpreet honoured, para-athletes shine

Rediff.com17 Jan 2025

The para-athletes outnumbered the able-bodied ones in the list this time due to the magnificent Paris Paralympics performance in which they returned with 29 medals, including seven gold and nine silver.

Beating the Retreat ceremony held amid downpour in Delhi

Beating the Retreat ceremony held amid downpour in Delhi

Rediff.com29 Jan 2023

Rains failed to dampen the spirit of Beating Retreat ceremony held at the historic Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on Sunday as Indian classical tunes played by bands of the armed forces filled the air, marking the end of Republic Day celebrations.

76th Republic Day Parade: Key highlights and what to expect

76th Republic Day Parade: Key highlights and what to expect

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

India as a sovereign democratic republic completed 75 years of its eventful journey on Sunday, with the stage set at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi for the ceremonial parade during which the country will showcase its military prowess and rich cultural heritage.

Neeraj Chopra's secret wedding stuns fans

Neeraj Chopra's secret wedding stuns fans

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

Neeraj dropped the news to the world at a time of his choosing, which was a good 48 hours after solemnising his union with US-based tennis player and coach Himani Mor.

Rohit's Injury: What Did He Really Say?

Rohit's Injury: What Did He Really Say?

Rediff.com23 Feb 2025

India captain Rohit Sharma played down concerns around his fitness after a crucial group A match of the Champions Trophy against Pakistan. Despite a brief period off the field during the Pakistan innings, Rohit assured that his hamstring was "okay." Meanwhile, Virat Kohli's century led India to a six-wicket victory, putting them on the verge of a semifinal berth.

Prayagraj-based 'Ram Naam Bank' may open branches in Europe, US

Prayagraj-based 'Ram Naam Bank' may open branches in Europe, US

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Indian origin Hindus living in Europe and US are mulling opening overseas chapters of Prayagraj-based 'Ram Naam Bank' in their countries. On the occasion of Ram Navami on Sunday, the idea of opening a Ram Naam Bank was discussed among the devotees in Sweden.

Couples Invite Global Guests to Weddings, For a Fee

Couples Invite Global Guests to Weddings, For a Fee

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

From dressing in colourful lehengas and sherwanis to dancing to Bollywood tunes during the baraat, these startups are offering an immersive journey into the world of Indian weddings.

'Welcome home', Biden tells Trump at White House

'Welcome home', Biden tells Trump at White House

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

US President Joe Biden greeted his successor Donald Trump at the White House with the message "welcome home" as Trump's motorcade arrived at the official presidential residence. Biden and Trump then went inside the White House for their traditional tea. Trump, 78, will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States, succeeding Biden, 82. The ceremony has been moved inside the Rotunda from outside the Capitol Hill facing the majestic National Mall.

SRK Passes On The Mantle To Kartik Aaryan

SRK Passes On The Mantle To Kartik Aaryan

Rediff.com25 Jan 2025

'I have had too much fun attending IIFA. We have some wonderful memories, and some of them are wild, which we can't talk about.'

How The Modern Mom Was Born In Bollywood

How The Modern Mom Was Born In Bollywood

Rediff.com14 May 2025

Today's Hindi film mothers are younger, trendier, more mischievous. But, truth be told, says Dinesh Raheja, I still do miss sometimes the comforting presence of the trad mother.

Don't Miss! The Sindoor Khela

Don't Miss! The Sindoor Khela

Rediff.com12 Oct 2024

Among the last few ceremonies celebrated with Her is the Sindoor Khela where married women apply sindoor on Maa Durga's forehead and feet.

Dalit family 'ostracised' in Telangana; 16 held

Dalit family 'ostracised' in Telangana; 16 held

Rediff.com24 Sep 2024

Sixteen people of a village in Medak district of Telangana were arrested for allegedly enforcing a social boycott on members of a Dalit family after they refused to play 'Dappu' (percussion instrument) during village ceremonies, police said on Tuesday.

Indian diaspora celebrates 76th Republic Day with enthusiasm

Indian diaspora celebrates 76th Republic Day with enthusiasm

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

Leaders from around the world extended their greetings to India on its 76th Republic Day, emphasizing the importance of bilateral relations and expressing hope for a stronger future. The Indian diaspora across the globe celebrated the occasion with enthusiasm at Indian missions abroad, where the national tri-colour was unfurled, accompanied by cultural performances and patriotic fervour. The celebrations highlighted the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and its global partners.

Congress tucked away Sengol in museum, ignored Hindu tradition, says BJP

Congress tucked away Sengol in museum, ignored Hindu tradition, says BJP

Rediff.com25 May 2023

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday alleged that the Congress displayed disregard for Hindu traditions by calling the sacred 'Sengol' a "golden stick gifted" to former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and tucking it away in a museum.

How Men's Fashion Went From Boring To Bold

How Men's Fashion Went From Boring To Bold

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

Men's fashion is no longer about looking tough and masculine.

Why Are These Folks Breaking Coconuts?

Why Are These Folks Breaking Coconuts?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2024

Glimpses from the traditional coconut breaking competition during the Narali Purnima festival in Mumbai, August 19, 2024.

The Fabulous Samanta In Sobhita's Life

The Fabulous Samanta In Sobhita's Life

Rediff.com2 Dec 2024

Meet Sobhita's gorgeous sister, Dr Samanta Dhulipala Gupta.

Just Who Was Mahatma Phule?

Just Who Was Mahatma Phule?

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

The latest biopic on Jyotibai Phule has come at a time when the Department of Taking Offence is super-active. Utkarsh Mishra feels it will be interesting to see if it portrays his attack on Brahminism in the same 'no holds barred' manner-- and, if it does, what reaction it provokes.