News for 'madurai'

Wanted: A Safe Seat For Superstar Vijay

Wanted: A Safe Seat For Superstar Vijay

Rediff.com8 Aug 2025

This is important because he is to be seen as a sure winner before criss-crossing the state to campaign for candidates of the party or an alliance, highlights N Sathiya Moorthy.

'Dravidian South Was Cradle Of Early Urban Modernity'

'Dravidian South Was Cradle Of Early Urban Modernity'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2025

'At Keeladi, we have not come across any evidence for organised religion.'

Will Tharoor join BJP? Union minister Suresh Gopi says.....

Will Tharoor join BJP? Union minister Suresh Gopi says.....

Rediff.com20 Jun 2025

Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi on Friday said that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has to decide whether he wants to join the Bharatiya Janata Party and the changes seen in him were the outcome of understanding the people's interests.

Ball-tampering charges against Ashwin withdrawn

Ball-tampering charges against Ashwin withdrawn

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) on Wednesday said the Siechem Madurai Panthers have withdrawn the ball-tampering allegations levelled against R Ashwin-led Dindigul Dragons.

Is BJP The 'Party-Splitter' In TN Too?

Is BJP The 'Party-Splitter' In TN Too?

Rediff.com21 Jun 2025

Successive elections since 2019 have proved that the Modi charisma and Shah's strategy does not work in Tamil Nadu. Now, they have to see next year if the DMK is capable of losing, whether to an existing NDA alliance or an expanded version, if one becomes necessary and possible!, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

Pakistan team to get nod to play in India

Pakistan team to get nod to play in India

Rediff.com3 Jul 2025

Pakistan hockey team won't be stopped from competing in Asia Cup next month, says Sports Ministry sources.

The New Dining Destinations of India

The New Dining Destinations of India

Rediff.com10 Jul 2025

Dining today isn't just about food -- it's about the experience and the story.

'Pakistan and India must host each other'

'Pakistan and India must host each other'

Rediff.com3 Jul 2025

Pak hockey team must play in India and India should reciprocate: Ex-Pak captain Butt

Ashwin cleared of ball-tampering charges

Ashwin cleared of ball-tampering charges

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

Former India off-spinner R Ashwin and Dindigul Dragons, the team he captains in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), have been cleared of ball-tampering charges after allegations were levelled against them by Seicham Madurai Panthers.

Keeladi row: DMK threatens to stall Parliament over ASI report

Keeladi row: DMK threatens to stall Parliament over ASI report

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

The BJP regime, which is unable to take on the DMK, the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu is involved in a "cultural invasion," Siva, a Rajya Sabha MP, alleged.

Is AIADMK Feeling Uncomfortable With BJP's Politics?

Is AIADMK Feeling Uncomfortable With BJP's Politics?

Rediff.com30 Jun 2025

While acknowledging that they needed strong allies for a chance in the assembly polls, AIADMK cadres seemingly prefer actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam to the BJP, owing to the latter's 'communal agenda' and consequent hardline Hindutva image, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

Can EPS Outwit Amit Shah?

Can EPS Outwit Amit Shah?

Rediff.com24 Jul 2025

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami is under pressure from his party as his unclear stand on the BJP alliance has brought back fears among party workers that the party may lose its identity, be forced into an unwanted coalition, and be taken over by the BJP later, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

The Rajinikanth Temple At Madurai

The Rajinikanth Temple At Madurai

Rediff.com10 Nov 2023

A die-hard fan of megastar Rajinikanth has built a temple dedicated to the Thalaiva.

Stalin Can Win 2026 Poll If...

Stalin Can Win 2026 Poll If...

Rediff.com18 Jul 2025

...the DMK chief minister's campaign -- which includes criticism of the BJP's 'pro-Hindutva, anti-Tamil, anti-federal' policies and building on his own government's social welfare programmes targeting especially women and youth -- appeals to Tamil Nadu's voters in next year's assembly election, explains N Sathiya Moorthy.

TN temple town turns fortress over Hindu Munnani protest

TN temple town turns fortress over Hindu Munnani protest

Rediff.com4 Feb 2025

The Hindu Munnani staged a protest in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, against a group of people consuming non-vegetarian food on the sacred Thiruparankundram hill. The protest, which was initially banned, was allowed by the Madras High Court with some restrictions. Several thousands of devotees, Hindu Munnani functionaries, and BJP members participated in the protest, raising slogans hailing Murugan (Lord Subrahmanya). Hindu Munnani state president Kadeshwara Subramaniam and scores of activists were arrested.

Kashmir's Beautiful Almond Blossoms

Kashmir's Beautiful Almond Blossoms

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

As spring arrives in Kashmir, the Badamwari Garden, also known as Badam Vaer in Srinagar, is witnessing a surge in visitors, drawn by the breathtaking bloom of almond trees.

What Travel Boycott Can Teach Turkiye, Azerbaijan

What Travel Boycott Can Teach Turkiye, Azerbaijan

Rediff.com27 May 2025

Just as Gandhiji's spinning wheel became a symbol of resistance, Indian travellers today can turn their passports into instruments of peaceful protest, argues Harsh Roongta.

Can Baby Revive CPM?

Can Baby Revive CPM?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

M A Baby faces several significant challenges: Helping the CPI (M)-led Left Democratic Front secure a third consecutive term in Kerala's 2026 assembly elections, and regaining ground lost in the party's traditional strongholds of West Bengal, Tripura, and other regions.

How Tamil Nadu Is Becoming A Global Hub

How Tamil Nadu Is Becoming A Global Hub

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

After Chennai, it is Coimbatore, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli, that are emerging as manufacturing hubs. Coimbatore is India's top Tier-II city in terms of the number of GCCs, according to a report by Cushman & Wakefield.

No Pakistan at Asia Cup? Government advisory holds the key

No Pakistan at Asia Cup? Government advisory holds the key

Rediff.com14 May 2025

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives and injured many, the government ordered all Pakistani nationals to leave the country and revoked their visas.

Kamal Haasan to enter Rajya Sabha with DMK support

Kamal Haasan to enter Rajya Sabha with DMK support

Rediff.com29 May 2025

Actor Kamal Haasan launched Makkal Needhi Miam at a public meeting in Madurai in 2018.

Jallikattu Leads Pongal Celebrations

Jallikattu Leads Pongal Celebrations

Rediff.com15 Jan 2025

The centuries-old bull-taming tradition, Jallikattu, commenced on Tuesday January 14, 2024 in Avaniyapuram, Madurai, marking the start of the state's Pongal celebrations.

Why Stalin Is Pushing Keeladi Over Indus Valley

Why Stalin Is Pushing Keeladi Over Indus Valley

Rediff.com2 Jun 2025

'It has the potential to sow seeds of furthering discord when the direction of the discourse is aimed at propagating the perceived supremacy of 'cultural nationalism' from a distant past over the prevailing dominance of 'Constitutional nationalism',' argues N Sathiya Moorthy.

Remember Smart Cities? What Happened?

Remember Smart Cities? What Happened?

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

Among the cities that have fully implemented their projects are Agra, Varanasi, Madurai, Coimbatore, Udaipur, Pune, Surat, and Vadodara

'India Took Me To A Higher Place'

'India Took Me To A Higher Place'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2025

'Youngsters in India look up to the West as if it is the biggest accomplishment they need in life. It breaks my heart.'

Jallikattu claims 7 lives, over 150 injured; 2 bulls die

Jallikattu claims 7 lives, over 150 injured; 2 bulls die

Rediff.com17 Jan 2025

Seven people, including spectators and a bull owner, died in jallikattu and manjuvirattu events held across Tamil Nadu on Kaanum Pongal day. Two bulls also died in separate incidents. Over 150 people were injured in the events, which saw hundreds of bulls and tamers participate.

How GM Chitambaram scripted history in Prague

How GM Chitambaram scripted history in Prague

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

The years of sacrifice and hard work is finally paying dividends. The iconic Vellamal School, which is the alma mater of World champion Gukesh, now has another international player of repute to boast about. After all, Aravindh is Gukesh's senior.

CPM's Karat calls for Left unity to counter 'Hindutva neo-fascism'

CPM's Karat calls for Left unity to counter 'Hindutva neo-fascism'

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

The 24th CPI(M) Party Congress commenced in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, with interim coordinator Prakash Karat emphasizing the need for Left unity to combat "Hindutva neo-fascism." He criticized the BJP-RSS government, accusing it of representing a "Hindutva-corporate nexus" and displaying "neo-fascist characteristics." Other Left leaders, including CPI general secretary D Raja and CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya, echoed calls for unity and condemned the current political climate in India.

Kerala temple staffer resigns amid caste discrimination row

Kerala temple staffer resigns amid caste discrimination row

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

An employee of the famed Koodalmanikyam temple in Kerala has resigned, citing personal reasons, following allegations of caste discrimination. Balu, a member of the Ezhava community, was recruited for 'kazhakam' duties, which involve preparing garlands and performing ceremonial chores. The resignation has sparked controversy, with the Devaswom Minister assuring support for Balu and criticizing the temple's 'tantries' for their stance. The temple has two 'Kazhakam' positions, one appointed by the 'tantries' and the other filled according to the Acts and Regulations.

TN Guv Ravi in fresh trouble after asking students to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'

TN Guv Ravi in fresh trouble after asking students to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'

Rediff.com13 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has sparked controversy by asking students at a government-aided college in Madurai to chant "Jai Shri Ram". The State Platform for Common School System-Tamil Nadu (SPCSS-TN) has demanded his removal, alleging that he violated his oath of office and secular principles. The group claims Ravi's actions were against the Constitution, which outlines India as a secular country and emphasizes the importance of upholding secular values in education. The incident follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that overruled Ravi's decision to withhold 10 Bills passed by the Tamil Nadu government, highlighting ongoing tensions between the Governor and the state administration.

Now, L2: Empuraan Arrives On OTT

Now, L2: Empuraan Arrives On OTT

Rediff.com25 Apr 2025

Lights, camera, ACTION, you'll find them in heaps on OTT this week. Sukanya Verma lists some interesting options.

Kerala leader MA Baby elected CPM chief, first from minority group

Kerala leader MA Baby elected CPM chief, first from minority group

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Former Kerala minister M A Baby was elected as the CPI(M) general secretary at the 24th party congress in Madurai. Baby, who was a member of the Rajya Sabha from 1986 to 1998, has been a member of the Politburo since 2012. He succeeds Sitaram Yechury, who passed away last year.

Recipe: Madurai Bun Parotta

Recipe: Madurai Bun Parotta

Rediff.com8 Nov 2021

Ramapriya Suresh's recipe to make soft, flaky parottas at home.

Speculation rife as CPI-M set to pick new general secy

Speculation rife as CPI-M set to pick new general secy

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) is set to elect its next general secretary, with speculation rife over who will lead the party. Leading contenders include M A Baby, backed by the party's Kerala unit, and Ashok Dhawale, who enjoys support from the West Bengal lobby. Other potential candidates include Mohammed Salim, B V Raghavulu, and Brinda Karat. The election will take place at the 24th CPI(M) congress in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

Auction of TN's Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block cancelled

Auction of TN's Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block cancelled

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

The government on Thursday said it has cancelled the auction of Tamil Nadu's Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block which is near the Arittapatti Biodiversity site and a number of cultural heritage sites. Tungsten is a critical and strategic mineral.

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.

9 killed as private party coach catches fire at Madurai station

9 killed as private party coach catches fire at Madurai station

Rediff.com26 Aug 2023

At least 10 persons were 'reported dead' in a fire that broke out inside a stationary train compartment in Madurai railway station in the wee hours of Saturday, the Southern Railway said, adding a 'gas cylinder illegally' taken in led to the blaze.

Migrant videos: SC restrains TN from shifting YouTuber from Madurai jail

Migrant videos: SC restrains TN from shifting YouTuber from Madurai jail

Rediff.com21 Apr 2023

The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Tamil Nadu government not to shift YouTuber Manish Kashyap, arrested for allegedly circulating fake videos of migrant labourers being attacked in the southern state, from the Madurai central prison.

CPM's biggest U-turn: Modi govt not fascist

CPM's biggest U-turn: Modi govt not fascist

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued a note to its state units on the draft political resolution for the upcoming party congress. The note says the party does not consider the Narendra Modi government or the Indian State as "neo-fascist", even as there are manifestations of "neo-fascist characteristics". The note clarifies that the party is not calling the Modi government "neo-fascist", but is concerned about the dangers of the BJP-RSS consolidating power and pushing a Hindutva-corporate agenda. The CPI(M) distinguishes between "neo-fascism", which it describes as a global phenomenon rooted in the crisis of neoliberalism, and classical fascism.

Yeh Hai India: Madurai's Magnificent Meenakshi Temple

Yeh Hai India: Madurai's Magnificent Meenakshi Temple

Rediff.com7 Apr 2022

A view of the Meenakshi Amman temple in Madurai as the annual Chithirai festival commences with its traditional flag hoisting ceremony.