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IOL News
4 hours ago
- General
- IOL News
Sandfields community to restore temple hall by January 2025
The damages to the Sandfields temple and its hall(left) Image: Supplied THE Sandfields Siva Subramaniar temple hall, in Sandfields, devastated by the June 2024 tornado, is set to reopen by January 2026, thanks to community support and rebuilding efforts While the 95-year-old temple suffered minimal damage, the hall was completely destroyed. Vijen Subramunier, chairperson of the temple, said the temple stood the test of the 'powerful' tornado. 'There was some damage to the temple's roof, windows, doors and part of the ceiling. However, there was not any damage in the shrine where our murthies (sacred images or idols of deities in Hinduism) are housed. 'Following the tornado, our team made a decision that the temple should be fixed immediately. Through the support of the various religious organisations, businesses and the public, we were able to restore the temple within weeks and resume with our prayer services,' he said. He added it cost about R250 000 to repair the temple. Restoration of the temple commenced soon after the tornado. Rebuilding of the hall is expected to start next month. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers Subramunier said the hall and its contents were not spared. 'The hall was used by the community and surrounding areas for various activities. The senior citizens club, local school and civic organisations, among others used the hall for their weekly meetings or other events. It was also used for funerals and memorial ceremonies. Following the April 2022 floods, it was also used as a disaster management centre and provided shelter for residents whose homes were damaged.
NDTV
10 hours ago
- Politics
- NDTV
"Secularism Must Be 2-Way Street": Pawan Kalyan Slams Influencer's Arrest
Kolkata Police's move to arrest influencer Sharmistha Panoli over a communal post has sparked a political row. BJP ally and Andhra Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has flagged West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks and stressed that "secularism must be a two-way street". Kolkata Police yesterday arrested Sharmistha Panoli, a 22-year-old law student, over social media videos in which she used abusive and communally-charged language and also targeted Bollywood actors for not speaking out during Operation Sindoor, India's counterstrike to the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 innocents dead. The FIR against Sharmistha Panoli, filed after a complaint in Kolkata, invokes Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections linked to promoting enmity on grounds of religion, deliberate acts to outrage religious feelings and intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace. She was produced in court and remanded in judicial custody for 14 days. Jana Kalyan Sena leader Pawan Kalyan took to X to comment on the student's arrest. During Operation Sindoor, Sharmistha, a law student, spoke out, her words regrettable and hurtful to some. She owned her mistake, deleted the video and apologized. The WB Police swiftly acted, taking action against Sharmistha. But what about the deep, searing pain inflicted… — Pawan Kalyan (@PawanKalyan) May 31, 2025 "During Operation Sindoor, Sharmistha, a law student, spoke out, her words regrettable and hurtful to some. She owned her mistake, deleted the video and apologized. The WB Police swiftly acted, taking action against Sharmistha. But what about the deep, searing pain inflicted upon millions when elected leaders, MPs of TMC, mock Sanatana Dharma? Where is the outrage when our faith is called 'Gandha Dharm'? Where is their apology? Where is their swift arrest?," he asked. Targeting the BJP, Ms Banerjee has said the party was trying to incite "communal riots through divisive politics" in Bengal and asserted that its "ganda dharma" was contrary to the true principles of Hinduism. Sharing a video of the Trinamool Congress chief's remarks, Mr Kalyan said, "Blasphemy must be condemned, always! Secularism isn't a shield for some and a sword for others. It must be a two-way street. West Bengal Police, the nation is watching. Act justly for all." Kolkata Police have said 'certain social media narratives suggesting an unlawful arrest of a law student are factually incorrect and misleading". "All legal procedures were duly adhered to. All attempts were made to serve notice, but she was found absconding on every occasion. Consequently, a warrant of arrest was issued by the competent court, following which she was apprehended lawfully from Gurgaon. She was thereafter produced before the appropriate magistrate and granted transit remand as per due process of law. We urge all concerned to refrain from spreading unverified or speculative content and to rely on authentic sources for information," it said in a post on X. Soon after her post sparked an uproar, the law student deleted it and issued an apology. Mamata Banerjee - 'Maha Kumbh is Mrityu Kumbh'. 'Jai Shree Ram is insulting abusive cuss word, hurled towards her.' ❌ No legal action. Mahua Moitra - 'Kali to me is a meat-eating, alcohol-accepting Goddess,' ❌ No legal action. Firhad Hakim - 'Those who are not born in Islam… — Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) June 1, 2025 The influencer's arrest has also drawn criticism from Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in the Bengal Assembly. Sharing Mr Kalyan's post and flagging controversial remarks by Trinamool leaders, Mr Adhikari has asked Kolkata Police where its zeal is when Hindu deities are vandalised and Ramnavami and Hanuma Jayanti processions come under stone-pelting.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Char Dham Yatra draws over 1.6 mn devotees, Kedarnath sees more than 6.50 lakh visitors in 30 days
In a remarkable display of faith and devotion, the Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra has attracted immense enthusiasm from devotees across India and overseas. Since the commencement of the pilgrimage, over 1.6 million devotees have flocked to the revered Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib. Notably, Kedarnath Dham has witnessed unprecedented crowds, with more than 650,000 visitors arriving in just 30 days following the doors' opening on May 2. This surge in attendance highlights the deep spiritual connection and devotion that continues to draw pilgrims to these sacred sites. The Char Dham Yatra 2025 officially began on April 30 with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham on Akshaya Tritiya amid Vedic chants and rituals. The doors of Kedarnath Dham were opened on May 2, and those of Badrinath on May 4. One of the most revered temples in the country, dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath draws countless devotees and visitors from across the country. Live Events The high-altitude shrines remain shut for six months every year, opening in summer (April or May) and closing at the onset of winter (October or November). The Char Dham Yatra holds profound spiritual significance in Hinduism. This journey typically occurs from April-May to October-November. It is believed that one should complete the Char Dham Yatra in a clockwise direction. Hence, the pilgrimage starts from Yamunotri, proceeds towards Gangotri, onto Kedarnath, and finally ends at Badrinath. The journey can be completed by road or by air (helicopter services are available). Some devotees even do a Do Dham Yatra or a pilgrimage to two shrines, Kedarnath and Badrinath, as per the Uttarakhand tourism official website. The Char Dham Yatra, or pilgrimage, is a tour of four holy sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. In Hindi, 'char' means four and 'dham' refers to religious destinations, as per the Uttarakhand tourism official website.
India.com
a day ago
- India.com
The Myths Of Varanasi: A Deep Dive Into Local Culture
History along with spirituality and mythical stories define Varanasi which remains one of the longest inhabited urban areas worldwide. The Hindu, Buddhist and Jain communities acknowledge Kashi as their most holy place where its original designation is Benares. Throughout the years the city has maintained its identity through ancient legends and myths that internal understanding from generation to generation. Through its ancient historical stories the city retains both its cultural core and its annual attracting power for millions of pilgrims and tourists. A collection of significant historical stories makes up the distinctive essence of Varanasi through these popular local myths. 1. The Legend of Lord Shiva and the Creation of Kashi Lord Shiva represents the main deity in Hinduism and his eternal presence defines the major mythology about Varanasi. The legend tells that Shiva created Varanasi from which he selected this earthly place to reside. After his destruction dance (Tandava) Shiva decided to place his divine presence upon this location. Both Varanasi and Kashi share a name which refers to luminous light because it represents spiritual enlightenment leading people to freedom. The Hindu faith holds that both life in Kashi and dying within its domain will deliver moksha which is liberation from rebirth. The strong belief that Varanasi provides spiritual opportunities to seek liberation has transformed the city into a magnet for seekers of salvation. Shiva along with other deities receive worship through spiritual ceremonies at the riverbanks of the Ganges. 2. The Sacred Ganga River: A Gift from the Heavens Hinduism considers the River Ganga to be sacred which forms the second main mythological component of Varanasi. King Bhagiratha conducted deep spiritual devotion which led to the descent of the divine river Ganga from heaven so that her waters could purify his forefathers' ashes for their ascension to heaven. The myth states that when Ganga descended from heaven her power created a danger of planetary destruction. The terrifying descent of Ganga was prevented by Lord Shiva who captured her with his matted hair so she could release her waters in a controlled manner to the Earth. The people of Varanasi consider the Ganga to be Mother Ganga so bathing in its waters provides religious purification which brings spiritual renewal. Neophytes from all over the world visit the Varanasi ghats especially Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat for religious ceremonies. 3. Vishwanath Temple: The Abode of the Universe The Kashi Vishwanath Temple takes pride in being the central religious structure of Varanasi which worships Lord Shiva. Shiva's manifestation as 'pillar of light' at this Jyotirlinga site among the twelve sacred divine locations makes it known as the 'abode of the universe.' Popular tradition claims that the temple's original building needed a makeover after numerous invasions disrupted its construction several times. Devotees maintained their faith which protected the temple from extinction despite numerous adversities. People visit this temple daily to show their devotion as it stands as an enduring symbol of religious determination. From the tops of buildings the temple spire shines like gold while it contains divine energy which inspires the city below. 4. The Tale of Markandeya and Immortality Legend tells how Sage Markandeya holds a central role in Hindu mythical stories which connect to Varanasi. The legend tells that Markandeya received a prophetic message that he would survive only sixteen years. Through his dedicated service to Lord Shiva he managed to escape Yama when he came to collect his soul from death. The trick appeared when Shiva fought Yama to save Markandeya's life by beating the deity who came to collect the sage. This legend demonstrates the strength of devotion because Varanasi both protects people and enables divine salvations. Visitors from all walks of life come to the Markandeshwar Mahadev Temple situated by the Manikarnika Ghat in order to receive blessings and understand how dedication defeats death. 5. Buddhist Connections: Sarnath and the First Sermon The religious identity of Varanasi centers mainly on Hindu traditions but the site actively participates in Buddhist religious activities. Gautama Buddha gave his initial sermon at Sarnath which existed only 10 kilometers outside of Varanasi right after his enlightenment. The Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta constitutes the moment which launched the Buddhist doctrines. Sarnath maintains numerous stupas and monasteries with Dhamek Stupa standing as the most celebrated structure since it marks the spot where Buddha provided his lessons. The religious significance of Varanasi extends into its dual appeal for wisdom and compassion which deepens its multicultural heritage according to Buddhist beliefs. 6. Parvati's Tapasya and the Birth of Ganesha A mythical tale associated Varanasi with the origin of Lord Ganesha who serves as the elephant-headed lord of wisdom and obstacle remover. Goddess Parvati proceeded with extreme penance within Varanasi to regain the admiration of Shiva. While performing her bath with turmeric paste she fashioned Ganesha and through supernatural means she animated him. Shiva met Ganesha while the boy guarded Parvati but did not recognize their family connection which made him cut off Ganesha's head out of his rage. Shiva consecrated the newly created divine Ganesha by putting elephant attributes on his body instead of a severed head. A sacred account at Varanasi shows how love and loyalty brought transformation to its spiritual center. 7. The Eternal Flame at Manikarnika Ghat Locals in India view Manikarnika Ghat as their religious center where mystifying stories surround its sacred cremation activities. A tale tells about a perpetual burning flame which exists continuously at the ghat. The ghat obtained its name after Shiva dropped his earring ('mani') when Lord Vishnu dug the site with his chakra during the universe creation. The spiritual significance of cremation rituals at this site enables Hindus to attain liberation from rebirth thus making it an essential location when they reach their final days. A perpetually burning flame together with sacred chants that resound during the process creates a spiritual space for deep self-reflection. Final Thoughts Throughout millennia Varanasi's identity remains completely linked to its numerous legendary myths that have governed the city's development. Lord Shiva selected the city as his divine abode while its religious power grants people access to salvation through countless spiritual truths that continue to define its existence. The religious power of Varanasi springs from its holy Ganga River waters and holy Vishwanath Temple and historical significance at Sarnath thus compelling spiritual reverence from visitors.
Time of India
a day ago
- General
- Time of India
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 date: When is Nirjala Ekadashi? Know date, timings, rituals, mantras, wishes, WA status and more
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 date & timings: Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the most important and toughest Ekadashis among the 24 Ekadashis observed throughout the year in Hinduism. It is observed with great devotion by devotees of Lord Vishnu. This fast is known for being extremely strict, as even drinking water is not allowed on this day. Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to offer the same benefits as observing all other Ekadashis in a year. Let us explore the Nirjala Ekadashi date, timing, rituals, mantra, story, and the spiritual significance of this powerful day in 2025. What is Nirjala Ekadashi? Nirjala Ekadashi is observed on the Ekadashi tithi (11th lunar day) of Shukla Paksha in the Jyeshtha month, according to the Hindu Panchang. 'Nirjala' means 'without water,' which means devotees fast without even drinking water for the entire day. This Ekadashi is also known as Bhimaseni Ekadashi, as it was first observed by Bhima, the second of the Pandava brothers. Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 Date and Time In 2025, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, 6 June. However, there is a slight difference in dates for general followers and Vaishnav devotees. Important Timings: Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 6 June 2025 at 02:15 AM Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 7 June 2025 at 04:47 AM Parana (fast-breaking) Time: 7 June 2025 from 01:43 PM to 04:30 PM Hari Vasara End Time: 7 June 2025 at 11:25 AM For Vaishnav Devotees: Vaishnava Parana Time: 8 June 2025 from 05:22 AM to 07:17 AM Dwadashi Tithi Ends: 8 June 2025 at 07:17 AM Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi Nirjala Ekadashi holds great spiritual value. It is said that by keeping a fast on this day, one can gain the same blessings and results as keeping all 24 Ekadashis of the year. It is a path to wash away sins, seek forgiveness, and receive Lord Vishnu's blessings for health, wealth, peace, and salvation. Worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this day brings happiness and prosperity. Devotees are also encouraged to donate water, food, clothes, and money to the poor. The Story Behind Nirjala Ekadashi According to Hindu mythology, Bhima, the mighty Pandava, loved food and found it very hard to fast. When he expressed his concern to Sage Vyasa, the sage advised him to observe just Nirjala Ekadashi, which gives the merit of all other Ekadashis combined. From then on, Bhima kept this difficult fast once a year, and hence, it is also called Bhima Ekadashi or Pandava Ekadashi. Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 Rituals Fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi is not just about avoiding food and water. Devotees follow certain rituals to please Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings. Main Rituals: Wake up early, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. Place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu on a wooden platform. Offer flowers, homemade sweets, sandalwood paste (chandan), and light a ghee diya. Offer Tulsi leaves (Tulsi Patra) to Lord Vishnu. Recite Nirjala Ekadashi mantras and chant the name of Lord Krishna throughout the day. Avoid eating and drinking anything from sunrise to next day's Parana time. Break the fast during the Parana time on Dwadashi Tithi with satvik food and water. Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 Mantras Chanting these powerful mantras can help purify your soul and bring peace of mind. Nirjala Ekadashi wishes, messages and WhatsApp status to share May Lord Vishnu bless your life with endless happiness, health, and success this Nirjala Ekadashi. On this sacred day of Nirjala Ekadashi, may your devotion bring you peace, strength, and divine grace. Wishing you a pious and spiritually fulfilling Nirjala Ekadashi. May your prayers be answered. May your fast and prayers on Nirjala Ekadashi remove all sorrow and fill your life with joy. Happy Nirjala Ekadashi! May your heart remain pure and your soul be uplifted with devotion. On this auspicious Ekadashi, may Lord Vishnu guide your path and shower his blessings on you. May the divine light of Nirjala Ekadashi brighten your life with wisdom, virtue, and prosperity. Wishing you a peaceful and blessed Nirjala Ekadashi. May you gain strength from your faith. May this Nirjala Ekadashi bring you closer to spiritual awakening and inner peace. May your devotion on this sacred day be rewarded with happiness, success, and salvation. Happy Nirjala Ekadashi! May Lord Vishnu cleanse your heart and bless you abundantly. Wishing you and your family divine blessings and harmony this Nirjala Ekadashi. Let the purity of Nirjala Ekadashi wash away all negativity and bring love and light. May the holy fast of Nirjala Ekadashi bring you peace of mind and strength of soul. On this Nirjala Ekadashi, may your prayers echo with love and reach the divine. Celebrate this Nirjala Ekadashi with devotion and may your life be filled with divine bliss. May Lord Vishnu's blessings bring you clarity, purpose, and fulfilment this Ekadashi. Wishing you a soulful Nirjala Ekadashi filled with prayers, purity, and divine grace. On this sacred occasion, may you walk the path of righteousness and receive Lord Vishnu's love. Happy Nirjala Ekadashi! May this holy day inspire faith, humility, and inner joy. Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 is a golden opportunity to purify your mind, body, and soul by following the strict Nirjala fast and worshipping Lord Vishnu with full devotion. Knowing the correct Nirjala Ekadashi date, timing, rituals, and mantra helps you prepare for this auspicious occasion and gain spiritual benefits. Whether you follow this fast for inner peace, wealth, or moksha, the blessings of Nirjala Ekadashi are truly powerful and life-changing. (Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.) For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
