News for 'festival controversy'

Banu Mushtaq inaugurates Mysuru Dasara festival amid row

Banu Mushtaq inaugurates Mysuru Dasara festival amid row

Rediff.com22 Sep 2025

The decision to invite Mushtaq had sparked controversy, with several petitions challenging the Karnataka government's move.

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Following through announcements with enforcement of measures is key, as a run through recent Indian economic history shows, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised the BJP for allegedly attempting to divide people on religious and caste lines during a community outreach programme in her Bhabanipur constituency.

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised the BJP for allegedly deleting names from electoral rolls and attempting to divide people on religious and caste lines during a community outreach programme in her Bhabanipur constituency.

Sapna Bhavnani: 'Virat Was Everything Mahi Was Not But...'

Sapna Bhavnani: 'Virat Was Everything Mahi Was Not But...'

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

From styling icons like M S Dhoni and Virat Kohli to launching India's first horror film festival, Sapna Bhavnani's journey stretches far beyond cricket and Bollywood -- into fearless self-expression, bold filmmaking and unapologetic reinvention.

Bengaluru family tries to 'courier' elderly man in protest

Bengaluru family tries to 'courier' elderly man in protest

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

A family in Bengaluru attempted to send an elderly man as a 'parcel' through a courier service to protest high bus fares ahead of Ugadi and Eid-ul-Fitr. The stunt, intended as a social media reel, drew criticism and police intervention.

Honey Trehan: 'Speaking The Truth Is Becoming A Crime In This Country For The CBFC'

Honey Trehan: 'Speaking The Truth Is Becoming A Crime In This Country For The CBFC'

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Director Honey Trehan's film Punjab '95, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra's life, remains stuck with the Censor Board, facing over 127 cuts.

Russian artist's photoshoot with 'pink elephant' draws ire

Russian artist's photoshoot with 'pink elephant' draws ire

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

A photo shoot in Jaipur featuring an elephant painted pink has sparked controversy and animal welfare concerns after the elephant's death. The incident has led to calls for stricter regulations on the use of animals in commercial and artistic activities.

Sudipto Sen On Vipul Shah's Kerala Story Sequel Allegations

Sudipto Sen On Vipul Shah's Kerala Story Sequel Allegations

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

'No one can wipe-off our glorious collaboration in The Kerala Story and Bastar, from Indian cinema.' 'When we create history and are scrutiniSed in public, we must be extremely responsible in our behaviour and conduct.'

10 Films That Leaked Online Before Release

10 Films That Leaked Online Before Release

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

As Jana Nayagan and Avatar: Aang, The Last Airbender become victims of piracy even before they got an official release, Sreeju Sudhakaran looks back at some of the major Indian movies that were impacted by pre-release leaks.

Arundhati Roy Withdraws From Berlinale

Arundhati Roy Withdraws From Berlinale

Rediff.com14 Feb 2026

Arundhati Roy has withdrawn from the Berlin International Film Festival, as she was 'shocked and disgusted' by the comments of the jury members regarding their stance on Gaza.

Campaign against Iran 'is not yet over': Netanyahu

Campaign against Iran 'is not yet over': Netanyahu

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Benjamin Netanyahu declares that the joint Israel-US campaign is successfully 'crushing' Iran, eliminating existential threats and weakening the regime's regional influence.

Modi Slams TMC for Alleged Disrespect Towards President Murmu

Modi Slams TMC for Alleged Disrespect Towards President Murmu

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of insulting President Droupadi Murmu and disrespecting tribal communities and the Constitution, following a controversy surrounding the President's visit to West Bengal.

Sarma Accuses Congress of 'Sin' for Mentioning Zubeen Garg's Death in Election Promises

Sarma Accuses Congress of 'Sin' for Mentioning Zubeen Garg's Death in Election Promises

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly criticised the Congress party for including the issue of singer Zubeen Garg's death in its election manifesto, calling it a 'sin' and accusing the party of exploiting the singer's memory for political gain.

Assam CM Defends Zubeen Garg Murder Charges Despite Singapore Coroner's Ruling

Assam CM Defends Zubeen Garg Murder Charges Despite Singapore Coroner's Ruling

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Opposition parties question the Assam police's murder charges in the Zubeen Garg death case after a Singapore coroner ruled out foul play, while Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defends the state's investigation.

Opposition Challenges Assam Police Over Zubeen Garg Death Probe

Opposition Challenges Assam Police Over Zubeen Garg Death Probe

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Opposition parties in Assam are questioning the state police's handling of the Zubeen Garg death case after a Singapore coroner ruled out foul play, contradicting the Assam police's murder charges against several accused. The conflicting findings have sparked controversy and calls for further investigation.

Remained unapologetic on Op Sindoor: Tharoor addresses issues with Cong

Remained unapologetic on Op Sindoor: Tharoor addresses issues with Cong

Rediff.com24 Jan 2026

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor addresses reports of differences with party leadership, clarifying his stance on party positions and emphasizing the importance of national interest.

Sambhal CO cleared of controversial Holi, Jumma remark

Sambhal CO cleared of controversial Holi, Jumma remark

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

The Circle Officer (CO) of Sambhal, Anuj Chaudhary, has been cleared of any wrongdoing regarding his controversial remarks about Holi and Jumma (Friday) prayers. Chaudhary had previously stated that those uncomfortable with Holi celebrations should stay indoors, sparking criticism from some sections of the community. The police investigation was launched following a complaint by former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur.

Dhurandhar 2 Vs Toxic: Who Will Win In March?

Dhurandhar 2 Vs Toxic: Who Will Win In March?

Rediff.com22 Jan 2026

'The March 19 clash between Toxic and Dhurandhar 2 should ideally be avoided.'

Suresh Kalmadi: From IAF Pilot To Powerbroker Of Indian Sport

Suresh Kalmadi: From IAF Pilot To Powerbroker Of Indian Sport

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

Suresh Kalmadi brought several top-class events to India including the 2003 Afro Asian Games, the 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games, the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

'Gol topis didn't vote for us': Maha minister sparks row

'Gol topis didn't vote for us': Maha minister sparks row

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane has sparked controversy by claiming that Muslims did not vote for the BJP-led government and warning against disrespecting Hindu deities. His remarks follow tensions over alleged desecration of a Durga idol and previous controversial statements about Muslim voters.

About 50% turnout in Maha civic polls; 41% polling in BMC

About 50% turnout in Maha civic polls; 41% polling in BMC

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

A BMC spokesperson said the average voter turnout stood at 29.96 per cent till 1.30 pm in the metropolis, which has more than 1 crore eligible electors.

Savarkar's photo in Kerala temple festival sparks controversy

Savarkar's photo in Kerala temple festival sparks controversy

Rediff.com9 May 2022

The temple authorities reportedly decided to withdraw the umbrella from display after leaders of the Congress and the Communist Party of India-Marxist raised an objection.

VHP Doesn't Want Poonam Pandey In Ram Leela

VHP Doesn't Want Poonam Pandey In Ram Leela

Rediff.com22 Sep 2025

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has strongly protested about the controversial model-actress Poonam Pandey portraying Ravana's wife Mandodari in Delhi's UNESCO-endorsed Ram Leela.

Holi Or Jumma? Bihar Politicos Heat Up Festival Time

Holi Or Jumma? Bihar Politicos Heat Up Festival Time

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Ahead of Holi, controversial statements by leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and its ally Janata Dal-United in Bihar have heated up politics in the state which goes to the polls this winter.

Why Freebies May Not Save Stalin's DMK

Why Freebies May Not Save Stalin's DMK

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

While the DMK depends on a 'silver sieve' of welfare schemes to stay in power, its support is slowly draining away under the weight of poor governance, corruption, and voters who are no longer satisfied with benefits alone and now want basic administration to work, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

HC dismisses pleas against Dasara invite to Banu Mushtaq

HC dismisses pleas against Dasara invite to Banu Mushtaq

Rediff.com15 Sep 2025

The Karnataka High Court dismissed petitions challenging the state government's decision to invite International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the 'Mysuru Dasara' festivities this year, following objections from some groups.

SC to hear plea on Banu Mushtaq inaugurating Mysuru Dasara

SC to hear plea on Banu Mushtaq inaugurating Mysuru Dasara

Rediff.com18 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea challenging the Karnataka government's decision to invite International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate Mysuru Dasara this year. The controversy stems from allegations that Mushtaq made statements in the past that are perceived by some as "anti-Hindu" and "anti-Kannada".

Muslim Booker winner breaks silence over Dasara invite row

Muslim Booker winner breaks silence over Dasara invite row

Rediff.com26 Aug 2025

International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq has affirmed her respect for the Dasara festival and Goddess Chamundeshwari, following objections from BJP leaders regarding her invitation to inaugurate the event.

BJP leader moves HC against Dasara invite to Banu Mushtaq

BJP leader moves HC against Dasara invite to Banu Mushtaq

Rediff.com6 Sep 2025

Bharatiya Janata Party leader Prathap Simha moved the Karnataka high court on Saturday seeking a stay on the state government's invitation to International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate this year's 'Mysuru Dasara'.

SC rejects plea against Dasara invitation to Banu Mushtaq

SC rejects plea against Dasara invitation to Banu Mushtaq

Rediff.com19 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea challenging the Karnataka government's decision to invite International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate Mysuru Dasara this year.

How Yamuna controversy sank AAP in Delhi

How Yamuna controversy sank AAP in Delhi

Rediff.com9 Feb 2025

The BJP's victory in the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections was largely attributed to the Yamuna pollution issue, with the party successfully capitalizing on the backlash from Haryanvi-origin voters who perceived AAP's narrative on the river's pollution as an attack on their home state. The BJP's campaign focused on presenting itself as both the protector of Haryana's honor and the party with a concrete vision for the Yamuna's revival, ultimately leading to AAP's significant decline in the Yamuna belt and rural areas.

Bihar records highest-ever 65% turnout in first phase of polls

Bihar records highest-ever 65% turnout in first phase of polls

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

The first phase of Bihar assembly elections saw a moderate pace of polling across 121 constituencies, with 53.77% voter turnout reported till 3 pm. Sporadic incidents of violence were also reported. Key leaders are in the fray for both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc.

Rioters are like demons, will be crushed, says Yogi

Rioters are like demons, will be crushed, says Yogi

Rediff.com28 Sep 2025

"You have seen that in Islam, it is said that they oppose 'bootparastee' (idol worship). It is their matter and their philosophy. We perform idol worship. We worship the 'saakaar brahma' and the 'niraakaar brahma', which is allowed by the Sanatan Dharma.... Some are saying 'I Love Mohammad' and indulging in arson and vandalism." "They know that this is Sharadiya Navratra, the occasion of Vijaya Dashami. If they spread chaos during the Sharadiya Navratra, work like 'Chundd' and 'Mundd', then Goddess Bhagwati is not going to tolerate it. Goddess Bhagwati crushes such 'Chundd' and 'Mundd'," Adityanath said.

Kerala govt's decision on Bakrid holiday triggers uproar

Kerala govt's decision on Bakrid holiday triggers uproar

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

Originally Friday (June 6) was marked as holiday for Bakrid. However, following the reports that the festival would be celebrated on Saturday across the state, on Thursday, the Kerala government announced that Saturday, June 7, will be a public holiday for Bakrid.

'Don't think India vs Pakistan is a contest anymore'

'Don't think India vs Pakistan is a contest anymore'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2025

Former BCCI president and batting great Sourav Ganguly on Monday side-stepped the debate surrounding Indian players' refusal to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts after their Asia Cup clash in Dubai but said terrorism must end "all around the world, not just India and Pakistan."

Controversies abound for Kerala Film Festival

Controversies abound for Kerala Film Festival

Rediff.com20 Nov 2014

However, advisory committee chairman Adoor Gopalakrishnan insists he wants the fest to run smooth and hassle-free.

'I Love Muhammad' campaign: Cleric among 39 held after violence

'I Love Muhammad' campaign: Cleric among 39 held after violence

Rediff.com27 Sep 2025

In a major crackdown, police arrested 39 people, including local cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, in connection with the violence during the 'I love Muhammad' campaign after Friday prayers in Bareilly, while authorities suspended internet service in the district for 48 hours beginning Saturday.

RSS founder's portrait at Kerala temple sparks row

RSS founder's portrait at Kerala temple sparks row

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

The display of RSS founder KB Hedgewar's portraits during a temple festival in Kollam district has sparked controversy in Kerala, prompting the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to request a report from its vigilance wing. The images of Hedgewar were reportedly displayed along with the photos of prominent social reformers like Sree Narayana Guru and B R Ambedkar during Kollam Pooram festival here on Tuesday night. TDB sources said the management of Puthiyakavu Temple, a local shrine in the district which does not come under its ambit, is allegedly responsible for the showcasing of the images of the RSS leader during the "kudamattam" as part of the Pooram festivities.

Kerala forest dept's Thrissur Pooram circular sparks controversy

Kerala forest dept's Thrissur Pooram circular sparks controversy

Rediff.com13 Apr 2024

The temple authorities and jumbo owners even suspected that the conditions of the circular with regard to parading of the domestic elephants during festivals were part of a conspiracy to sabotage the Pooram.