News for 'holi'

Kangana's Emergency Arrives on OTT

Kangana's Emergency Arrives on OTT

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

Raveena Tandon's daughter making her debut, Kangana Ranaut's controversial Indira Gandhi movie, Millie Bobby Brown's brand new sci-fi offering and more on Sukanya Verma's Holi weekend watch.

Sakshi and Ziva's Holi celebration

Sakshi and Ziva's Holi celebration

Rediff.com20 Mar 2022

Sakshi and daughter Ziva celebrated Holi in Uttarakhand.

Modi ji allowed travel without tickets: Woman on way to Kumbh

Modi ji allowed travel without tickets: Woman on way to Kumbh

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

A senior railway official in Bihar was left stunned when a group of rural women claimed that they had been allowed to travel without tickets by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The incident occurred at the Buxar railway station bordering Uttar Pradesh, where the official was inspecting the station due to the higher-than-expected rush of pilgrims visiting the Maha Kumbh. The official, Danapur Divisional Railway Manager Jayant Kumar, asked the women if they had tickets, and when they replied in the negative, he asked who told them they could travel without tickets. The women replied "Narendra Modi told us so," leaving the official speechless for a few seconds before he corrected them, stating that neither the prime minister nor any other authority had allowed this. The video of the conversation has gone viral on social media.

Rs 1600 cr being spent to keep Ganga 'dip-safe' for Kumbh Mela

Rs 1600 cr being spent to keep Ganga 'dip-safe' for Kumbh Mela

Rediff.com24 Jan 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government is taking comprehensive measures to ensure the Ganga River is "dip-safe" during the Maha Kumbh, a massive religious gathering. This includes daily water testing, a 200-km temporary drainage system for greywater, and state-of-the-art technology to manage human waste. Authorities are also emphasizing the importance of keeping the river clean by removing pooja waste and encouraging the use of reusable items.

Sonal Chauhan Seeks Blessings At Kumbh

Sonal Chauhan Seeks Blessings At Kumbh

Rediff.com11 Feb 2025

Disha's bold & beautiful power dressing... Vicky, Rashmika in Amritsar... Shahid gets nostalgic...

'Dip At Maha Kumbh Made Me Feel Divine'

'Dip At Maha Kumbh Made Me Feel Divine'

Rediff.com1 Mar 2025

'It would have been impossible for any other country to manage such a vast crowd or accommodate the visit of so many devotees with such remarkable arrangements,' says Navin Mendon.

Get Well Soon, Pope Francis

Get Well Soon, Pope Francis

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

Pope Francis remains in critical condition with blood tests showing mild signs of kidney failure 'which is currently under control,' the Vatican said on Sunday, February 23, 2025 as the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia in both his lungs.

Kumbh stampede: 3-member judicial panel to finish probe in a month

Kumbh stampede: 3-member judicial panel to finish probe in a month

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

The three-member judicial commission appointed by the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate the Maha Kumbh stampede has a month to complete its probe but plans to accelerate the process. The commission members, led by retired judge Harsh Kumar, will soon visit Prayagraj, the site of the tragedy. The stampede, which occurred on Wednesday during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya, resulted in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries.

SEE: Mary Kom Joins Maha Kumbh Celebrations

SEE: Mary Kom Joins Maha Kumbh Celebrations

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

MC Mary Kom on Sunday expressed happiness as she was able to participate in the Maha Kumbh.

Israel agrees to US ceasefire proposal for Ramzan

Israel agrees to US ceasefire proposal for Ramzan

Rediff.com2 Mar 2025

The temporary truce aims to ease tensions during the religious holidays. Further details on its implementation are yet to be disclosed.

BJP lures Delhi voters with Rs 2500 aid for women, Rs 500 LPG

BJP lures Delhi voters with Rs 2500 aid for women, Rs 500 LPG

Rediff.com17 Jan 2025

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released the first part of its manifesto for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections, promising Rs 2,500 monthly aid for women, LPG cylinders at Rs 500, and Rs 2,500 pension for senior citizens. BJP president JP Nadda also assured that all existing public welfare schemes in Delhi will continue if the party is voted to power. The manifesto also includes a promise to implement the 'Ayushman Bharat' scheme in Delhi, providing additional health cover of Rs 5 lakh.

What Was Rohit Doing At Gold Souk?

What Was Rohit Doing At Gold Souk?

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

Unaware that the area was filled with cricket fans, he had a tough time managing the crowd.

Entire Prayagraj to become 'no vehicle zone' for Purnima snan

Entire Prayagraj to become 'no vehicle zone' for Purnima snan

Rediff.com11 Feb 2025

Elaborate arrangements including a special traffic plan have been chalked out for Maghi Purnima on Wednesday and health personnel have been put on alert for the occasion when the month-long 'kalpavas', an integral tradition of the Maha Kumbh, comes to an end.

No-vehicle zone, no VVIP pass: Big changes after Kumbh stampede

No-vehicle zone, no VVIP pass: Big changes after Kumbh stampede

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

More than 55.11 lakh devotees had taken the holy dip till 8 am, according to the Uttar Pradesh government.

Day after stampede, safety measures ramped up at Maha Kumbh

Day after stampede, safety measures ramped up at Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

Following a stampede at the Maha Kumbh that killed 30 people, the Uttar Pradesh government has stepped up security measures and crowd management efforts. Despite the tragedy, millions of devotees continue to flock to the religious gathering, undeterred by the pre-dawn chill and dense fog. Security forces are being deployed in larger numbers, and new restrictions will be imposed at key locations to prevent further incidents. The authorities are also conducting a thorough review of the arrangements in the Mela area, and several officials are being assigned to oversee operations until February 12.

Maha Kumbh horror: A look at major stampedes in India

Maha Kumbh horror: A look at major stampedes in India

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

Here is a list of some of such major tragedies that have taken place in the country in recent years.

Modi visits RSS HQ for 1st time since becoming PM

Modi visits RSS HQ for 1st time since becoming PM

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited Dr Hedgewar Smruti Mandir in Nagpur and paid tributes at memorials dedicated to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, and second sarsanghchalak (chief) M S Golwalkar.

Cash row: HC probe report, SC video cast doubt on Delhi fire chief's claim

Cash row: HC probe report, SC video cast doubt on Delhi fire chief's claim

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

A video and inquiry report have raised questions about the Delhi Fire Services' claim that no cash was found at the official residence of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma during a fire incident on March 14. The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows fire fighters dousing flames on articles that appear to include half-burnt Indian currency notes. The Delhi High Court Chief Justice has initiated an in-house inquiry against Justice Varma and the Supreme Court has proposed his transfer to the Allahabad High Court.

Varun Is A Hero For Dubai's Southies

Varun Is A Hero For Dubai's Southies

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

Tamilians and Keralites believe he is one of them, and people from Karnataka also consider him their hero.

Bulldozer will roll if needed: Fadnavis on Nagpur violence

Bulldozer will roll if needed: Fadnavis on Nagpur violence

Rediff.com22 Mar 2025

Fadnavis further said it was too early to comment on a foreign or Bangladeshi link to the riots as the probe is underway.

Lisa Ray Visits Maha Kumbh Mela

Lisa Ray Visits Maha Kumbh Mela

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

'The Triveni Sangam transcends images, words, definitions, all. How do you attempt to describe the Infinite?'

Empty stadiums! Pakistan exit ends Champions Trophy fever

Empty stadiums! Pakistan exit ends Champions Trophy fever

Rediff.com2 Mar 2025

The ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan has seen a decline in attendance following the early exit of the Pakistani cricket team and the start of Ramadan.

20 Christian priests booked for assaulting cop in Kerala

20 Christian priests booked for assaulting cop in Kerala

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

Twenty priests have been booked by the police in Kochi, Kerala, for allegedly assaulting a police officer during a protest at the Bishop's House. The incident occurred on January 11, with the priests protesting against the unified Holy Mass. The police registered a case against the priests under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for unlawful assembly, rioting, and causing hurt to a public servant. The protest follows a controversy over the unified Holy Mass, which the Archbishop has defended, stating that altering decisions approved by Pope Francis is impossible.

Maha Kumbh set for auspicious start on 'Paush Purnima' on Monday

Maha Kumbh set for auspicious start on 'Paush Purnima' on Monday

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

The 45-day Maha Kumbh 2025, billed as the world's largest gathering of humans, began on Monday with the first major bathing ritual or 'Shahi Snan' at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, India. This edition of the Kumbh is being held after 12 years, with the Uttar Pradesh government expecting over 35 crore devotees to visit. The event is being touted as a 'Digi-Kumbh' with Artificial Intelligence (AI) being used for various aspects, including security and cleanliness. The Maha Kumbh will be held from January 13 to February 26, and is expected to transform the area into the world's largest temporary city. Thirteen Akharas of seers from different sects are participating in the event, attracting attention from those seeking to learn about Indian spiritual beliefs.

Punjab CM wants flight with deportees to be diverted

Punjab CM wants flight with deportees to be diverted

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticized the Centre over the landing of US planes carrying illegal Indian immigrants at Amritsar airport, calling it a "deport centre." He stated that the holy city is known for its religious sites and should not be used for deportations. Mann has also questioned the choice of Amritsar as the landing site, suggesting that other airports in the country could have been used instead. The second US flight carrying 119 illegal Indian immigrants is slated to land in Amritsar on Saturday night. The Punjab government has made arrangements to take the residents of Punjab from among the second batch of deportees to their hometowns.

10 BIGGEST Holi Hits

10 BIGGEST Holi Hits

Rediff.com26 Mar 2021

Over the last 10 years, a few films have made their mark by releasing over the Holi weekend.

Kumbh stampede: Many still missing even after 36 hours

Kumbh stampede: Many still missing even after 36 hours

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

Several families continue their desperate search for their loved ones.

UP CM issues fresh directives after Kumbh stampede

UP CM issues fresh directives after Kumbh stampede

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

Adityanath asked the chief secretary and the director general of police to conduct a thorough review of the Maha Kumbh Mela arrangements on Thursday. "Every aspect related to security and public convenience must be carefully examined to ensure seamless arrangements for Basant Panchami," he said.

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.

Don't try to reach Sangam nose: UP CM to Kumbh devotees

Don't try to reach Sangam nose: UP CM to Kumbh devotees

Rediff.com29 Jan 2025

Multiple casualties were feared after the stampede at the Sangam as millions of pilgrims turned up for a holy bath on 'Mauni Amavasya', the most significant ritual at the Maha Kumbh.

Celeb-Inspired Ways To Dress For Holi

Celeb-Inspired Ways To Dress For Holi

Rediff.com16 Mar 2022

It's time to say goodbye to white and bring out your bright, desi outfits.

Knights, Royals celebrate Holi

Knights, Royals celebrate Holi

Rediff.com29 Mar 2021

With this year's Holi restricted indoors due to the terrifying surge of COVID-19 cases, Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals celebrated the festival of colours on Monday.

Govt sources explain why deportation flights land in Amritsar

Govt sources explain why deportation flights land in Amritsar

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

The Indian government has defended the use of Amritsar as a deportation hub for US flights carrying Indian deportees, despite objections from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Government sources said Punjab has the highest number of deportees among Indian states, with 126 out of 333 people deported since February 5. The sources added that 23 flights carrying Indian deportees have arrived in the country since May 2020, all landing in Amritsar. The move has sparked controversy, with opposition parties protesting the treatment meted out to the deportees and demanding that the Indian government take up the issue with the US. Mann has accused the Centre of trying to defame Punjab and said a holy city like Amritsar should not be made a "deport centre".

Hima Das takes a dip in Ganga at Maha Kumbh

Hima Das takes a dip in Ganga at Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com21 Jan 2025

Star sprinter Hima Das came to Maha Kumbh along with her friends after taking blessings from her guru Keshav Das Ji Maharaj.

'The Dip Was Phenomenal But...'

'The Dip Was Phenomenal But...'

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

Pramod Prasad wishes some things could have been different.

India, Sri Lanka sign major defence pact

India, Sri Lanka sign major defence pact

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a tri-services ceremonial welcome in Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking the first time such an honor has been bestowed upon a foreign leader. The welcome took place at the historic Independence Square, the venue for national day celebrations. Modi's visit comes as Sri Lanka shows signs of recovery from a recent economic crisis, with India playing a significant role in providing assistance. During the visit, both leaders are expected to discuss a range of issues, including defense cooperation, energy, and digital initiatives.

The Scotsman Who Knows India Better Than Many Of Us

The Scotsman Who Knows India Better Than Many Of Us

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

Bill Aitken came to India nearly 60 years ago. He never returned. An Indian citizen since 1972, he tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih how India changed his life forever.

Probe panel to visit Kumbh stampede site on Friday; report in 1 month

Probe panel to visit Kumbh stampede site on Friday; report in 1 month

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

A three-member judicial commission set up by the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate the Maha Kumbh stampede will visit the site on Friday. The commission, headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Harsh Kumar, has a month to complete its investigation but will try to expedite it. The commission members will also interact with media and examine the causes and circumstances surrounding the incident, focusing on understanding the causes and proposing preventive measures for the future.

Maha Kumbh: Seers warn politicians against...

Maha Kumbh: Seers warn politicians against...

Rediff.com3 Feb 2025

Saints and seers gathered at the Triveni Sangam for the 'Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami on Monday cautioned political leaders against misusing Sanatan Dharma and spreading rumours for political gain, and praised Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over arrangements at the Maha Kumbh.

How Couples Plan To Celebrate Holi

How Couples Plan To Celebrate Holi

Rediff.com16 Mar 2022

34% male and female users admitted that organising an afternoon Holi party and inviting your lover along with your friends is a tried and tested method to meet them if your family is still not updated with your dating life.