News for 'religious ceremony'

Why Our Military Leaders Must Be Diligent

Why Our Military Leaders Must Be Diligent

Rediff.com31 Jan 2026

The armed forces of India will be wise to remember that its public interface needs to be tempered with discretion, maturity and example, keeping in mind the nation's multi-cultural and multi-religious fabric which is its greatest strength but which can also become its biggest fault-line, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

This War Has Surpassed All Limits Of Uncivilised Behaviour

This War Has Surpassed All Limits Of Uncivilised Behaviour

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

One of the most uncivilised characteristics of this war has been the total disregard for international law and the laws of armed conflict, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Swami Vs Yogi: The Showdown In Uttar Pradesh

Swami Vs Yogi: The Showdown In Uttar Pradesh

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

Tensions between Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and the Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have drawn national attention in recent months.

The Six Men Who Decide Iran's Fate

The Six Men Who Decide Iran's Fate

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

As Iran heads into crucial peace talks with the United States of America, here are the six men who decide the Islamic Republic's course.

Man Arrested in Rajasthan Luxury Car and Crypto Investment Fraud

Man Arrested in Rajasthan Luxury Car and Crypto Investment Fraud

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Rajasthan Police have arrested a man allegedly involved in a large-scale fraud that collected crores in funds from people under the pretext of luxury car sales, cryptocurrency, and social media-based investment schemes.

Court Allows Murder Accused to Attend Brother's Post-Death Rituals Under Police Escort

Court Allows Murder Accused to Attend Brother's Post-Death Rituals Under Police Escort

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

A court in Beed district, Maharashtra, has granted temporary release to Jairam Chate, an accused in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case, to attend his brother's post-death rituals under police protection. The decision has sparked controversy and objections from the victim's family.

Iran confirms killing of intelligence minister Khatib in Israeli strike

Iran confirms killing of intelligence minister Khatib in Israeli strike

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The West Asia conflict escalated sharply as Iran launched missiles towards Israel, while Tehran confirmed the killing of its intelligence minister in Israeli strikes, marking the third assassination of a senior Iranian official in two days.

Iran's War: 'Mojtaba Khamenei Is Being Hunted By Foreign Powers And Internal Foes'

Iran's War: 'Mojtaba Khamenei Is Being Hunted By Foreign Powers And Internal Foes'

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

'Mojtaba Khamenei supervised the most recent repression in December 2025 and January 2026 which remains ongoing.'

'Modi biggest infiltrator': Mamata at Eid congregation

'Modi biggest infiltrator': Mamata at Eid congregation

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP-led central government of attempting to suppress voting rights through voter roll revisions, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the 'biggest infiltrator'.

Banerjee Accuses Modi of Being 'Biggest Infiltrator' Amid Voter Roll Row

Banerjee Accuses Modi of Being 'Biggest Infiltrator' Amid Voter Roll Row

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP-led central government of attempting to suppress voting rights through voter roll revisions, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the 'biggest infiltrator'. She framed the upcoming assembly elections as a fight for democratic rights and Bengal's social harmony.

Banerjee Slams BJP, Alleges Plot to Snatch Voting Rights

Banerjee Slams BJP, Alleges Plot to Snatch Voting Rights

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led central government, accusing it of attempting to suppress voting rights and polarise the electorate ahead of the assembly elections.

To Modi, With Love

To Modi, With Love

Rediff.com17 Sep 2025

From Siliguri school students cosplaying as the PM to yagna ceremonies in Varanasi and blood donation camps in New Delhi, the celebrations showcase widespread admiration for India's leader across various cities and communities.

HC rejects plea against Christian priests' Kerala temple entry; says...

HC rejects plea against Christian priests' Kerala temple entry; says...

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

The Kerala High Court has stated that laws and regulations should serve as a unifying force between religions and communities, not create discord. The observation came while dismissing a plea against the entry of Christian priests into a Hindu temple.

FIR Filed Against Ranveer Singh For Insulting Chavundi Daiva

FIR Filed Against Ranveer Singh For Insulting Chavundi Daiva

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

The complainant stated that Ranveer Singh, while present on stage and in the presence of the lead actor of Kantara: Chapter-1, allegedly performed acts that mocked and insulted the sacred Bhoota Kola tradition practiced in coastal Karnataka.

Explained: What athletes can and cannot say at the Olympics

Explained: What athletes can and cannot say at the Olympics

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

The ejection of Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych from the Winter Games over his "helmet of remembrance" has put the spotlight on rules over where athletes are not allowed to express themselves on political matters at the Olympics.

Andhra Plans Rs 25,000 Incentive for Second Child

Andhra Plans Rs 25,000 Incentive for Second Child

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

'We will give Rs 25,000 to parents having a second child or more at the time of delivery itself.'

'I Would Like To Do My Gareeb Films'

'I Would Like To Do My Gareeb Films'

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

'Filmmaking is such a weird line of work, artistic expression and collaboration.' 'It is letting go, then holding on to something, being democratic and then being tyrannical.'

Why Is Putin Celebrating Christmas Now?

Why Is Putin Celebrating Christmas Now?

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

President Vladimir Putin attended an early Wednesday Russian Orthodox Christmas service and hailed his troops' 'holy mission' to defend Russia, pairing the ceremony with a holiday address on unity, charity and support for the armed forces.

BJP protests Muslim Booker winner inaugurating Mysuru Dasara

BJP protests Muslim Booker winner inaugurating Mysuru Dasara

Rediff.com25 Aug 2025

Senior BJP leaders and an expelled MLA have questioned the Karnataka government's decision to have author Banu Mushtaq inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festivities, citing concerns about her faith and its appropriateness for a religious ceremony.

Row erupts over Udupi commissioner holding saffron flag

Row erupts over Udupi commissioner holding saffron flag

Rediff.com21 Jan 2026

The Congress party in Karnataka is demanding action against a District Commissioner for holding a saffron flag during a religious procession. The DC claims she was performing her official duties and denies any political motivation.

Ram Temple to hold historic flag ceremony in Nov; Modi likely to attend

Ram Temple to hold historic flag ceremony in Nov; Modi likely to attend

Rediff.com7 Jul 2025

A flag-hoisting ceremony is planned for the Ram temple in Ayodhya in November, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to be the chief guest. The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust has shortlisted two dates in November for the event, with preparations gaining momentum.

Forces opposing Somnath temple reconstruction still active: Modi

Forces opposing Somnath temple reconstruction still active: Modi

Rediff.com11 Jan 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that forces opposing the reconstruction of the Somnath temple after independence are still active and that India needs to be vigilant and united to counter them. He highlighted the temple's history of resilience against repeated attacks and emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made to protect it.

Saudi clerics to attend TMC rebel Kabir's Murshidabad 'Babri' mosque event

Saudi clerics to attend TMC rebel Kabir's Murshidabad 'Babri' mosque event

Rediff.com6 Dec 2025

Kabir told reporters that "nearly 3 lakh people will gather across 25 bighas near Moradighi on Saturday", adding that religious leaders from several states had confirmed their presence.

Suspended TMC MLA lays 'Babri-style' mosque foundation in WB

Suspended TMC MLA lays 'Babri-style' mosque foundation in WB

Rediff.com6 Dec 2025

Kabir cut a ceremonial ribbon alongside visiting clerics on the dais as slogans of "Nara-e-Takbeer, Allahu Akbar" were raised at the venue, where thousands had gathered since morning.

India rings in 2026 with prayers, parties

India rings in 2026 with prayers, parties

Rediff.com1 Jan 2026

Indians across the country welcomed the New Year 2026 with celebrations, religious observances, and gatherings at tourist spots. The President, Vice President, and Prime Minister extended greetings for peace and prosperity.

After Babri-style mosque, Ayodhya-style Ram Mandir proposed in Bengal

After Babri-style mosque, Ayodhya-style Ram Mandir proposed in Bengal

Rediff.com12 Dec 2025

Posters announcing plans for an Ayodhya-style Ram temple complex in Salt Lake have appeared, escalating the political duel between religious groups ahead of the Bengal assembly polls. The proposed complex includes a school, hospital, and old-age home.

Sarvam Maya Review: Middling Entertainer

Sarvam Maya Review: Middling Entertainer

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

Sarvam Maya banks on its leading man, Nivin Pauly, who grasps at straws and makes the improbable scenes work with his charm, notes Arjun Menon.

SC allows Hindus, Muslims to offer prayers at MP's Bhojshala on Basant Panchami

SC allows Hindus, Muslims to offer prayers at MP's Bhojshala on Basant Panchami

Rediff.com22 Jan 2026

Hindus will offer prayers from sunrise to sunset on Basant Panchami while Muslims to offer namaz from 1 pm to 3 pm on Friday.

Rs 1.3 cr and counting: Donations pour in for Babri-style mosque

Rs 1.3 cr and counting: Donations pour in for Babri-style mosque

Rediff.com8 Dec 2025

Donation boxes kept for the proposed Babri masjid-style mosque by suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir in West Bengal's Murshidabad district are nearly full, with cash-counting machines whirring through the night as donations continue to pour in both physically and online.

TMC MLA's Babri replica plan on Dec 6 sparks row; party distances itself

TMC MLA's Babri replica plan on Dec 6 sparks row; party distances itself

Rediff.com27 Nov 2025

A major controversy has erupted in West Bengal after a TMC MLA announced plans to lay the foundation stone of a mosque modeled on the Babri Masjid, leading to political backlash and concerns over communal polarization.

Nitish Kumar set for record 10th term as Bihar CM

Nitish Kumar set for record 10th term as Bihar CM

Rediff.com19 Nov 2025

Nitish Kumar is poised to lead the NDA government in Bihar, with key political developments unfolding ahead of the swearing-in ceremony. The article covers the election of the NDA leader, cabinet allocation discussions, and reactions to the election results, including Prashant Kishor's claims and the family feud within Lalu Prasad's family.

Choose your eateries wisely: Consumer panel rejects non-veg momo complaint

Choose your eateries wisely: Consumer panel rejects non-veg momo complaint

Rediff.com8 Jun 2025

A consumer redressal commission in Mumbai has said if meat-based food hurts a "strictly vegetarian" person's religious sentiments, why should the individual opt to order from a restaurant serving both veg and non-veg items.

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.

Pak Hindus allege 100-yr-old temple land illegally occupied

Pak Hindus allege 100-yr-old temple land illegally occupied

Rediff.com22 May 2025

Land grabbers have illegally occupied the land surrounding a 100-year-old Shiv temple near Tando Jam in Pakistan's Sindh province, obstructing access to the temple and starting construction on the surrounding land. The Hindu community representative, Shiva Kachhi, has appealed to the government to stop the illegal activities and protect the temple and other historical Hindu sites in Sindh.

With Ram darbar opening next month, Ayodhya temple is fully done

With Ram darbar opening next month, Ayodhya temple is fully done

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

The Ram temple at Ayodhya will see the installation of a 'Ram Darbar' next month, which will be open for devotees from June 6. The event will also mark the completion of the construction of the temple, which started in 2020. The installation of the Ram Darbar will take place on May 23 and will be a religious ceremony with pujas being held before it is opened to devotees on June 6.

SEE: Dhawan joins Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar

SEE: Dhawan joins Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar

Rediff.com5 Oct 2025

Shikhar Dhawan participated in the Bhasma Aarti ceremony at the Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Ujjain

Want A Brahmos Rakhi?

Want A Brahmos Rakhi?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2025

Glimpses from around India that will make you smile and cry.

Eggs thrown at garba event at Maha housing society

Eggs thrown at garba event at Maha housing society

Rediff.com1 Oct 2025

The suspect was seen on the grounds shortly before the incident, checking the decibel levels and filming the Garba with his mobile phone. He had called the police several times to stop the programme, citing noise concerns, the official said.

'Bihar Doesn't Predict Outcomes In Bengal, UP'

'Bihar Doesn't Predict Outcomes In Bengal, UP'

Rediff.com25 Nov 2025

'The question for the TMC is not whether it can hold its bastions, but whether it can expand effectively into regions where the BJP already possesses a good ecosystem.'

Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam anoints junior pontiff

Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam anoints junior pontiff

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

Sri Satya Chandrashekarendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya, a 25-year-old Rig Vedic scholar from Andhra Pradesh, was anointed as the junior pontiff of the ancient Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam at a grand religious ceremony. The historic event took place on the auspicious Akshya Thritiya, attended by seers from across the country. The new acharya, known as Ganesha Sharma Dravid before his initiation into sanyasa, is the successor to the present Seer Sri Vijayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya. The event coincided with the 2534th Jayanti Mahotsavam (May 2, 2025) of Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya, who established Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam in 482 BCE.