News for 'religious festival'

Bengal to enforce strict loudspeaker curbs at religious places, events

Bengal to enforce strict loudspeaker curbs at religious places, events

Rediff.com14 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari has directed police to take strict action against the use of loudspeakers beyond permissible sound limits at religious places and events across the state.

Adhikari Pledges Economic Revival, Improved Law And Order In Bengal

Adhikari Pledges Economic Revival, Improved Law And Order In Bengal

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari outlined his government's priorities, focusing on strengthening the state's economy, attracting investment to create jobs, and improving law and order. He criticised the previous administration for alleged corruption and appeasement politics, while highlighting initial successes in border management and reducing criminal activities.

Roads can't be blocked for religious activities: SC

Roads can't be blocked for religious activities: SC

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has stated that roads cannot be blocked for religious activities and that while religious denominations have autonomy in worship, the government can interfere if secular activities are affected.

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.

Artists oppose NSD's promotion of religious festivals on social media

Artists oppose NSD's promotion of religious festivals on social media

Rediff.com26 Oct 2021

Over 260 artists, writers and former faculty members of the National School of Drama have raised 'grave concern' about the institute allegedly promoting religious festivals on its Instagram account.

TN govt goes to SC against allowing lighting of sacred lamp

TN govt goes to SC against allowing lighting of sacred lamp

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Tamil Nadu government has approached the Supreme Court to challenge a Madras High Court order that permitted the lighting of a ceremonial lamp on the Thirupparankundram hill. The state government cited concerns over public order and potential communal tensions, while the High Court had dismissed these fears as "imaginary" and affirmed the land belongs to the Sri Subramania Swamy Temple, not the Waqf Board.

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.

Bakrid Tensions Flare In Mira Road Housing Society

Bakrid Tensions Flare In Mira Road Housing Society

Rediff.com27 May 2026

A dispute over the alleged construction of a temporary shed and the tying of sacrificial goats ahead of Bakrid triggered tensions at a housing society in Mira Road, Thane district, Maharashtra, leading to police intervention and protests.

Clash Over Goat Sacrifice Attempt Rocks Thane Housing Society

Clash Over Goat Sacrifice Attempt Rocks Thane Housing Society

Rediff.com27 May 2026

A dispute over sacrificial goats in a Thane housing society led to clashes, slogan-shouting, and heightened security, raising community tensions.

Centre tells SC: Sabarimala ban is religious faith, beyond judicial review

Centre tells SC: Sabarimala ban is religious faith, beyond judicial review

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that the restriction on women of menstruating age entering Kerala's Sabarimala temple is a matter of religious faith and denominational autonomy, falling outside the purview of judicial review. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that courts should not apply 'secular standards of reason' to religious practices.

SC refuses to change religious practices at Banke Bihari temple in UP

SC refuses to change religious practices at Banke Bihari temple in UP

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has stated it will not make structural changes to religious practices at the Bankey Bihari temple in Vrindavan, hearing a petition challenging administrative decisions affecting traditions.

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

Rediff.com4 days ago

FIFA has confirmed that rainbow flags will be permitted at the World Cup match between Egypt and Iran in Seattle, which coincides with the city's Pride weekend. This decision comes despite objections from Egypt and Iran, where homosexuality is criminalised, and FIFA's attempt to distance itself from the "Pride Match" designation, stating it's a local initiative.

Controversial 'Pistulya Maharaj' Faces Case Over Rs 3.6 Crore Fund Misappropriation

Controversial 'Pistulya Maharaj' Faces Case Over Rs 3.6 Crore Fund Misappropriation

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A spiritual preacher, Kishor Dhondiram Jadhav alias 'Pistulya Maharaj', and his associates have been booked in Latur, Maharashtra, for allegedly misappropriating Rs 3.6 crore collected during a religious event. The funds were meant for temple construction but were unaccounted for, leading to protests by Warkaris.

Discovering The Rhythm Of Bhutan

Discovering The Rhythm Of Bhutan

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The highlight of our eight-day trip to stunning Bhutan was getting to understand their cultural heritage through their traditional dances.

Actress Claims Director Abused Her, Fears for Her Life

Actress Claims Director Abused Her, Fears for Her Life

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

A young Indian actress has publicly accused a film director of abuse and claims she and her husband are receiving death threats. She is seeking protection from the central and state governments.

Don't sacrifice prohibited animals, avoid sharing slaughter pix on social media: Jamiat chief

Don't sacrifice prohibited animals, avoid sharing slaughter pix on social media: Jamiat chief

Rediff.com26 May 2026

In his message to Muslims, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind chief Maulana Arshad Madani said a person on whom sacrifice is obligatory must perform this obligation. He said that in view of the current situation, it is important that Muslims take precautionary measures on their own.

Jharkhand Mother, Occultist Arrested in Teen Sacrifice Case: What We Know

Jharkhand Mother, Occultist Arrested in Teen Sacrifice Case: What We Know

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Police in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, have arrested a mother, an occult practitioner, and a man in connection with the sacrificial ritual killing of a teenage girl. The arrests follow an investigation into the girl's death, initially reported as a rape and murder.

BJP MLA Lodha ask 5 LPGs for Jain temples amid crisis, sparks row

BJP MLA Lodha ask 5 LPGs for Jain temples amid crisis, sparks row

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Maharashtra minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha defends his request for LPG cylinders for Jain temples, claiming criticism is part of a larger anti-Hindu narrative.

How Uttar Pradesh's Crime Policy Achieved 93% Conviction Rate

How Uttar Pradesh's Crime Policy Achieved 93% Conviction Rate

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh DGP Rajeev Krishna announced a conviction rate of over 93 per cent due to the state's 'zero tolerance' policy against crime. Authorities seized properties worth nearly Rs 788.38 crore linked to criminal activities.

Punjab To Enact Strict Anti-Drug Law, Confiscate Properties

Punjab To Enact Strict Anti-Drug Law, Confiscate Properties

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the state government will introduce a stringent anti-drug law allowing for the confiscation of drug smugglers' properties. Mann criticised previous administrations for allegedly enabling the drug trade and vowed stricter penalties for sacrilege. He also accused the BJP of divisive politics and criticised the Akali Dal for alleged political manipulation of religious institutions.

2018 Sabarimala verdict assumed 'men superior': Centre backs curbs on women's entry

2018 Sabarimala verdict assumed 'men superior': Centre backs curbs on women's entry

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Centre has supported the restriction on women of menstruating age entering Kerala's Sabarimala temple, arguing that the Supreme Court's 2018 judgement assumes male superiority.

Srinagar Temple Reopens After 36 Years

Srinagar Temple Reopens After 36 Years

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

On Thursday, Kashmiri Pandits offered special prayers at the historic Raghunath temple in Srinagar on the first day of its reopening after a gap of 36 years, coinciding with the festival of Ram Navami.

4 injured in violent clashes inside Germany gurdwara

4 injured in violent clashes inside Germany gurdwara

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

A clash between two groups at a gurdwara in Moers, Germany, resulted in injuries to four people and prompted a large-scale police response.

Modern Relationships: 'My Husband Wants Me To Do Puja Everyday'

Modern Relationships: 'My Husband Wants Me To Do Puja Everyday'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

When Bangalore-based Arjun* agreed to an arranged marriage, he believed he had found the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. But a quiet conflict over religion at home soon began to test the relationship.

Delhi Boosts Security for Hanuman Jayanti Amid Terror Plot Concerns

Delhi Boosts Security for Hanuman Jayanti Amid Terror Plot Concerns

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Delhi Police have heightened security across the city ahead of Hanuman Jayanti following the arrest of a suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba handler allegedly planning terror strikes. Enhanced surveillance and restrictions are in place to ensure peace during the festival.

How Mahavir Jayanti Is Celebrated In India

How Mahavir Jayanti Is Celebrated In India

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

One of the notable celebrations includes the Rath Yatra -- a spectacular procession through the streets with Lord Mahavir's idol on a chariot, with followers accompanying it while chanting hymns and performing prayers.

Adityanath Slams TMC, Alleges West Bengal Faces 'Identity Crisis' Under Their Rule

Adityanath Slams TMC, Alleges West Bengal Faces 'Identity Crisis' Under Their Rule

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticised the ruling TMC in West Bengal, alleging corruption, extortion, and the rise of 'mafia rule' have led to an 'identity crisis' in the state.

Why Ramzan Felt Different This Year

Why Ramzan Felt Different This Year

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

During this Ramzan, another religious practice was turned into an offence: Breaking the fast, or iftar.

Delhi's Uttam Nagar on edge ahead of Eid; HC tells police not to be lax

Delhi's Uttam Nagar on edge ahead of Eid; HC tells police not to be lax

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Delhi Police have implemented heightened security measures in Dwarka, including Uttam Nagar, ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, following communal tensions sparked by a recent incident. The Delhi High Court has directed the police to ensure a peaceful environment for the festival.

Bihar Police Tightens Security Ahead of Holi Celebrations

Bihar Police Tightens Security Ahead of Holi Celebrations

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Bihar Police have announced increased security measures ahead of the Holi festival to prevent disturbances and maintain law and order.

Sara Ali Khan can enter Badrinath, Kedarnath temples only if...: Temple committee chairman

Sara Ali Khan can enter Badrinath, Kedarnath temples only if...: Temple committee chairman

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Film actress Sara Ali Khan's entry to Badrinath and Kedarnath temple complexes is contingent on submitting an affidavit declaring her faith in Sanatan Dharma, according to the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee chairman.

10 dead in Sydney beach shooting during Jewish festival; gunman killed

10 dead in Sydney beach shooting during Jewish festival; gunman killed

Rediff.com14 Dec 2025

Authorities confirmed that the police operation remains ongoing, with security forces deployed across the area.

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.

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 Must Watch Movies From Around The World

10 Must Watch Movies From Around The World

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Aseem Chhabra lists his top 10 films from this year's Sundance festival, a blend of narratives and documentaries made in the US and other parts of the world.

How Women Power India

How Women Power India

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

In which area of Indian life are women not running the show?

44 killed in stampede at Jewish religious festival in Israel

44 killed in stampede at Jewish religious festival in Israel

Rediff.com30 Apr 2021

The mass gathering was organised to celebrate the Lag B'Omer holiday at Mount Meron.

'When We Come Together, We Can Move Mountains'

'When We Come Together, We Can Move Mountains'

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

'I want to show bearded men actually caring and loving for their sons or a woman from Pakistan in a position of power. How radical is that?'

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.

'Going By The BJP's Style, A Surprise Can't Be Ruled Out'

'Going By The BJP's Style, A Surprise Can't Be Ruled Out'

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

'The BJP is keeping its options open and that the final decision is still tightly held.' 'That is consistent with the party's tendency to preserve suspense, avoid premature factional conflict, and use leadership selection as a way of resetting internal hierarchies.'