Latest news with #JamaMasjid
NDTV
3 days ago
- NDTV
6 Hidden Gems In Madhya Pradesh For A Perfect Weekend Getaway
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. Madhya Pradesh offers hidden gems for travellers seeking tranquility. Discover Patalkot's lush valley, Ginnorgarh Fort's scenic views, Chanderi's rich heritage, Sardarpur's wildlife, Tawa Reservoir's serene escape, and Amarkantak's peaceful nature. Madhya Pradesh might be known for its iconic destinations like Khajuraho, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh, but there's a whole other side to the heart of India that rarely gets the spotlight. If you're the kind of traveller who's done the usual tourist circuit and is craving quieter, lesser-known places with real character, you're in for a treat. We've rounded up six hidden gems in Madhya Pradesh that are perfect for a quick weekend break. Think serene waterfalls, forgotten forts, and sleepy towns where time moves just a little bit slower. Each spot offers something unique without the crowds — and yes, they're all within a manageable drive from major cities like Bhopal, Indore, or Jabalpur. Here Are 6 Offbeat Weekend Getaways In Madhya Pradesh: 1. Sardarpur Wildlife Sanctuary Located in the Dhar district near the Madhya Pradesh-Maharashtra border, Sardarpur Wildlife Sanctuary is so low-key that even most locals haven't heard of it. It's a grassland sanctuary spread across about 348 square kilometres, and is especially known for its blackbuck population. Birdwatchers will find plenty to smile about here too, especially between November and February. Since it's still off the mainstream tourism radar, you'll have the landscape — and the antelopes — pretty much to yourself. 2. Ginnorgarh Fort About 60 km from Bhopal, Ginnorgarh Fort sits dramatically on a hilltop, surrounded by the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary. The climb up to the fort is half the charm-it's a fairly easy 3-km trek through forest trails, making it ideal for a short adventure. The fort itself, though in ruins, still holds remnants of Mughal and Gond architecture. There are water tanks carved into the rock, and the view from the top is straight out of a postcard. It's quiet, atmospheric, and refreshingly free of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. 3. Chanderi Orchha might hog the historical limelight, but just three hours away, Chanderi is an underrated stunner. Known for its intricate handwoven sarees, the town also boasts a rich mix of Islamic, Hindu and Jain heritage. Think ancient gates, ruined palaces, and hilltop forts with barely another soul in sight. The Chanderi Fort, Jama Masjid, and the serene Kati Ghati gateway are all worth visiting. Don't skip the local weaving centres — watching artisans at work here feels like a mini time capsule into India's textile heritage. 5. Tawa Reservoir If you've been craving a peaceful break by the water, Tawa Reservoir near Hoshangabad is your answer. It's a lesser-known alternative to popular lake destinations and has a laid-back charm that's hard to beat. You can go boating, take a ride on the Tawa Dam cruise (which also passes the entry to the Satpura Tiger Reserve), or simply spend the weekend unwinding in one of the lakeside lodges. Sunsets here are genuinely stunning, especially in the cooler months. 6. Amarkantak Yes, Amarkantak is a pilgrimage town, but it's also a hill station of sorts, located at the meeting point of the Vindhya and Satpura ranges. It's the origin of the Narmada and Son rivers, and the surroundings are dotted with forest trails, waterfalls, and quiet temples. Even if you're not here for the spiritual aspect, the clean air, hilly terrain, and overall calmness make Amarkantak perfect for a weekend reset. Don't miss the Kapil Dhara and Dudh Dhara waterfalls, especially right after the monsoons. 6. Patalkot Tucked away in the Tamia block of Chhindwara district, Patalkot is a horseshoe-shaped valley surrounded by hills and dense forest. The valley is home to tribal communities like the Bharia and Gond, who still live traditionally with little influence from the outside world. Patalkot's untouched beauty and ecological richness make it feel like stepping into a different era. You can trek through forest trails, learn about herbal medicines used by local healers, or just soak in the peaceful vibe. Bonus: The monsoon months turn the entire valley lush and green, perfect for nature lovers.
Hindustan Times
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Badaun temple-mosque case: Next hearing fixed for July 5 as debate on maintainability continues
MEERUT A court in Badaun on Wednesday set July 5 to hear the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple-Shamsi Jama Masjid case. The matter, which earlier fell under the jurisdiction of the fast-track court, was transferred to the court of Suman Tiwari, civil judge (senior division) here and hearing was held during the day. The petition was originally filed by Mukesh Patel on behalf of Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, alleging that the Shamsi Jama Masjid in the city was constructed over the remnants of a fort that belonged to King Mahipal, and that within its premises stood the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Contradicting this claim, the Jama Masjid Management Committee argued that no such temple ever existed at the site. In recent weeks, the case gained momentum, with the courtroom shifting its focus to the core procedural question: Is this case admissible in court, or not? The upcoming hearing on July 5 is expected to address this legal question in depth. On the previous hearing date, Judge Pushpendra Chaudhary, who had recently taken charge of the fast-track court, had heard preliminary arguments from both sides. However, he deferred further proceedings to allow himself time to examine the case files thoroughly. According to Ved Prakash Sahu, counsel for the Hindu side, the judge will soon determine whether to reopen arguments or proceed from where the previous arguments had left off. The case has seen several procedural delays. Notably, advocates representing the Jama Masjid Committee failed to appear on multiple scheduled dates. Earlier, judge Amit Kumar, then presiding over the FTC, had given the Muslim side a final opportunity and set a hearing for February 11, which was disrupted by a lawyers' strike. The case was later adjourned to March 10, but due to judge Amit Kumar being on leave, it was again deferred to March 20. On that day, Anwar Alam, lawyer for the Jama Masjid Committee, submitted a petition citing a Supreme Court directive that lower courts cannot adjudicate on such matters. This led the additional civil judge (senior division) to assign a new date, April 2. However, further delays ensued when judge Amit Kumar was transferred to Bhadohi district, and it took time for a new judge to assume charge. As a result, another hearing was held on April 21, bringing the case to its current stage. With the legal focus now shifting to the question of jurisdiction and maintainability, all eyes are on the July 5 hearing, which may determine whether the case proceeds to trial or is dismissed at the threshold. As per the petition, in the year 1175, Muslim ruler Shamsuddin Altamash (Iltutmish) converted the temple into the Jama Masjid. The Hindu side submitted a gazetteer written during the British era and a 144-year-old ASI report to the court. On the other hand, the Muslim side claimed that they presented a consolidation document in court, which records the ownership of this land in the name of Jama Masjid.
Indian Express
28-05-2025
- Indian Express
Victim knew attackers, says FIR registered after pickup van driver's murder in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada
A day after prohibitory orders were imposed in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district following the murder of a pickup van driver in what is suspected to be a communal incident, the police investigation has revealed that the killers were known to the victim. On Tuesday, Abdul Rahiman, 32, a resident of Kolthamajalu in Bantwal taluk, was murdered while unloading sand near a customer's house, according to the First Information Report (FIR) registered by Bantwal Rural police. His friend and co-worker Kalandar Shafi, 29, who was severely injured in the attack, is currently under treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a hospital. According to Shafi, the accused were known to them. Rahiman was the secretary of Jama Masjid in Kolthamajalu village and the accused murdered him for communal or other reasons, as per the FIR which has named Deepak, Sumith and 13 others – who are reportedly known to Rahiman and Shafi – as accused. A police officer associated with the probe said the Mangaluru City Crime Branch has been roped in to trace the accused and at least five teams have been formed for the same. Yatish N, Superintendent of Police, Dakshina Kannada, said the victims were attacked around 3 pm- 3.30 pm while they were dumping sand. 'We are yet to ascertain the reason behind the killing. Teams have been formed to nab the accused,' he added. The complaint filed by Mohammad Nisar, another driver, said that his friend Mustafa informed him that Rahiman and Shafi were being assaulted. 'When they were unloading sand outside the residence of one Rajiv in Kuriyala village, about 15 people carrying machetes and rods attacked Rahiman as he sat in the driver's seat,' Nisar stated in the complaint. He added that the attackers dragged Rahiman out of the vehicle and stabbed him multiple times. When Shafi tried to intervene, he was also attacked. The accused fled when local residents started to shout for help, the FIR added. Mohammad Azmal, a relative of Rahiman, said the government had earlier said that it would form anti-communal squads but such killings have not stopped. 'Rahiman was a poor man with two kids, aged 2 and 3. These murders are happening for political reasons and I would request the government to take stern action against the accused,' Azmal said. Rahiman's funeral procession on Wednesday was attended by thousands. Shutters were downed and activities halted in BC Road and nearby areas. Following the murder, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders in Bantwal, Belthangady, Puttur, Kadaba, and Sullia taluks, under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, from 6 pm on May 27 (Tuesday) till 6 pm on May 30 (Friday). The case was registered under sections 103 (murder), 109 (attempt to murder), 118(1) (voluntarily causing hurt), 118 (2) (voluntarily causing grievous hurt), 190 (unlawful assembly), 191(1) (force or violence is used by an unlawful assembly), 191(2) (rioting) and 191 (3) (rioting by using deadly weapons) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The incident comes nearly a month after Hindutva activist Suhas Shetty was murdered in Mangaluru on May 1. Eleven people were arrested in connection with the murder. Shetty had five cases against him – four in Mangaluru city and one in Dakshina Kannada district. He was the prime accused in the murder of Mohammed Fazil, 23, in Surathkal on July 28, 2022. Naushad alias Chotte Naushad, one of the accused in Suhas Shetty's murder, was attacked with stones in Mangaluru Central Prison on May 19. He was then transferred to Mysuru jail.
Hindustan Times
26-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah case: HC rejects plea to make goddess Radha a party
: The Allahabad high court has rejected an application moved by the Hindu side seeking impleadment of the deity -- Shriji Radha Rani Vrishbhanu Kumari Vrindavani (goddess Radha) -- as a party to one of the 18 suits pertaining to the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah title dispute case in Mathura. Rejecting the application, the court said, 'Puranic illustrations are considered hearsay evidence.' 'The claim of the applicant as a joint holder of property in dispute together with plaintiff is based on some reference in various Puranas and Sanhitas wherein Shriji Radha Rani is considered as soul of lord Krishna. The Pauranic illustrations are generally considered as hearsay evidence in legal context.' 'There is no evidence in support of the claim raised by the applicant that the applicant is entitled as joint holder of said land of 13.37 acres and property of the applicant is also involved in suit property claimed by the plaintiff as birthplace of lord Krishna,' said Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra in his order dated May 23. The application, moved through advocate Reena N Singh, claimed that the applicant – the deity Shriji Radha Rani -- is the legal wife and the feminine form of the plaintiff in the suit -- Sri Bhagwan Krishna Lala Virajman -- and that together, they both are worshipped as deities since time immemorial. They both allegedly hold the disputed land comprising 13.37 acres, according to the application. The applicant claimed joint ownership of the disputed property with the plaintiff Bhagwan Krishna Lala Virajman, based on references in various Purans and Sanhitas describing Shriji Radha Rani as the soul of Lord Krishna. It was argued that the applicant is a necessary and proper party to the suit and her impleadment is essential for complete justice under order one rule ten of the civil procedure code (CPC). However, the court rejected the application, observing that the applicant is neither a necessary nor proper party to the suit and that it is not expedient to implead her in suit number seven. The court, however, noted that if the applicant in the future comes with any concrete evidence supporting the claim of joint ownership, her impleadment may be considered at an appropriate stage. The suit seeks removal of the alleged illegal encroachment from the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple premises, now known as Shahi Idgah Masjid (formerly Jama Masjid). The court ultimately concluded, 'This court finds force in the objection raised by some of the parties to the suit in regard to impleadment application filed on behalf of Shriji Radha Rani. There is no averment in the impleadment application that there was a temple of Radha Rani in the property in dispute,' the court stated while fixing July 4 as the next date of hearing. The controversy concerns the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb-era Shahi Idgah mosque at Mathura, which is alleged to have been built after demolishing a temple at Lord Krishna's birthplace. In May 2023, the Allahabad high court transferred all such suits from the Mathura court to itself.
Hans India
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Hans India
Eidgah Bilali, a venue of ‘Waqf protests', in spotlight
Hyderabad: Eidgah Bilali at Masab Tank, which is turning out to be a venue for protest meetings of late against the 'Waqf (Amendment) Act', is in the spotlight. As a portion of this Eidgah also known historically as 'Hockey Grounds' already encroached upon by squatters, locals began questioning the sincerity of the political and religious heads leading the protest programmes, in setting free 'Waqf lands' like the Eidgah. As per the Waqf records, Eidgah Bilali, which is over a century old, is spread out over 19,636 sq yds. However in recent years, part of it has fallen to land sharks, particularly the area which is on the western side of the ground. Shanties, workshops and also some houses have been built in this part. The locals fear that whatever remaining area on the western side attached to the Eidgah's main structure (the wall) would be lost within no time, if ignored. 'This is one of the important Eidgahs of the city and I have my fond memories as a hockey player in these grounds. However, over the recent years, part of it has been encroached and whatever is remaining beyond the Eidgah's wall is falling to land sharks,' said Saleem Bin Khalifa, general secretary of Bhistiwada Youth Sports Welfare Association. During the days when hockey was patronised, for sports lovers like Saleem, this ground was their second home, as they spent their maximum time playing the 'national sport'. However, as cricket became more popular, youngsters began playing cricket in the grounds and in recent years, a cricket academy also came into being in the same grounds on the southern portion of the land. Saleem and scores of others have questioned its existence, since part of Eidgah's land is now held back by the academy allegedly 'under lease'. Historically, the Eidgah was under the control of the committee of Jama Masjid in AC Guards. But in recent years, the committee has lost control over it. A few others have questioned the way protest programmes related to Waqf Act were held without mentioning the alleged encroachment of the Eidgah's western side. 'A few weeks ago, a big public meeting was organised in the city and during that time, the all India Muslim Personal Law Board chief refrained from answering the questions asked by a national channel reporter regarding Waqf encroachments. In the coming days, more protests are going to take place in Hyderabad against the amendment in the Waqf Act. The Board should also highlight details of illegal encroachments of Waqf properties so that the general public becomes aware of it and supports the efforts,' said another resident, on condition of anonymity.
