Latest news with #LordGanesha
Time of India
28-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Vinayak Chaturthi date in May 2025: Is it on 29 or 30? Know exact date, rituals, and more
Jyeshtha Vinayak Chaturthi 2025: Vinayak Chaturthi is an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, celebrated every month during the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of the lunar calendar. It is believed that worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day brings wisdom, patience, and removes obstacles from life. But there's an important rule: worship of the Moon is avoided on this day. Let's find out when Jyestha Vinayak Chaturthi 2025 will be celebrated, what the correct timings are, and which rituals to follow to receive Lord Ganesha's blessings. What is Vinayak Chaturthi? Vinayak Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaki Chaturthi, falls every month on the Chaturthi tithi (fourth day) of the waxing moon. This day is considered highly sacred and is fully dedicated to worshipping Lord Ganesha, the god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. It is believed that praying to him on this day helps in gaining patience and intelligence, two vital qualities in life. However, as per traditional beliefs, worshipping Chandra Dev (Moon God) on Vinayak Chaturthi is not allowed, unlike Sankashti Chaturthi, when Moon worship is recommended. Jyeshtha Vinayak Chaturthi 2025 Date: 29 or 30 May? There is often confusion about the exact date of Jyestha Vinayak Chaturthi, especially when the tithi spans across two days. In May 2025, Vinayak Chaturthi will be observed on 30 May 2025, although the tithi begins on 29 May. So, the Jyestha Vinayak Chaturthi 2025 date is Friday, 30 May 2025. Devotees should perform the puja and observe fasting on this day for maximum spiritual benefits. Vinayak Chaturthi 2025 Tithi and Puja Timings According to the Hindu Panchang, the Chaturthi tithi starts at 11:18 AM on 29 May 2025 and ends at 9:22 PM on 30 May 2025. The best time to worship Lord Ganesha on Jyestha Vinayak Chaturthi is from 10:56 AM to 1:42 PM on 30 May 2025. Important Rituals to Follow on Jyestha Vinayak Chaturthi Clean the house and take a bath early in the morning. Place an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha in your puja room. Offer fresh Durva grass, modaks, jaggery, and flowers to the deity. Chant the Ganesh mantra and perform aarti. 2. Fasting Many devotees observe a strict or partial fast on this day. You can have fruits, milk, and water during the fast. Fasting is believed to please Lord Ganesha and remove obstacles from life. Special Remedies According to Your Wishes For Business Success According to ABP Live, if you wish to grow your business, offer 5 pieces of turmeric to Lord Ganesha daily for 10 days starting from Vinayak Chaturthi. While doing so, chant 'Shri Ganadhipataye Namah'. This is believed to bring prosperity and success in professional life. For the Blessing of Children Those seeking children should offer 21 small jaggery balls with Durva grass to Lord Ganesha. This ritual is said to make the deity happy and bless the devotee with a child. Why Is the Moon Not Worshipped on Vinayak Chaturthi? As per mythological tales, once Lord Ganesha cursed the Moon for laughing at him. Since then, seeing or worshipping the Moon on Vinayak Chaturthi is believed to bring false accusations or bad luck. Hence, devotees avoid moon worship on this day, even though it is performed in Sankashti Chaturthi instead. Jyestha Vinayak Chaturthi 2025 will be celebrated on 30 May. The Chaturthi tithi starts from 29 May, but the main day for fasting and performing rituals is 30 May. Follow the proper timings and rituals to receive the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha. Whether you seek wisdom, patience, business success, or a child, performing the right Vinayak Chaturthi rituals with devotion can fulfil your wishes. (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.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Exploring Ketu's Benefic Conjunctions: Spiritual Insights and Unique Outcomes in Vedic Astrology
In Vedic astrology, Ketu is a shadow planet (a lunar node) often associated with detachment, spirituality, past life karma, liberation (moksha), and sudden, unexpected results. It's often considered a malefic planet due to its tendency to create separation and dissatisfaction with material things. However, when Ketu forms a conjunction with certain benefic planets, its effects can transform, leading to unique and sometimes powerful outcomes, particularly on the spiritual and intellectual planes. The term "benefic conjunction" with Ketu refers to its association with naturally benefic planets like Jupiter, Venus , Mercury, and the Moon . While the Sun is also considered a benefic in general, its conjunction with Ketu can be complex and often challenging due to Ketu's "anti-ego" nature. Here's how Ketu's conjunctions with benefic planets are generally interpreted: 1. Ketu + Jupiter (Guru-Chandal Yoga or Ganesha Yoga ) This is one of the most significant and often talked about Ketu conjunctions. Paradoxical Nature: Jupiter signifies wisdom, knowledge, expansion, dharma , and wealth. Ketu, on the other hand, represents detachment, spiritual insight, and past life wisdom. This creates a paradox: a strong desire for higher knowledge and spiritual growth, often accompanied by detachment from conventional worldly pursuits or a disregard for traditional societal norms. Positive Manifestations: Profound Spiritual Insight: This combination can make one a profound philosopher, spiritual teacher, mystic, or researcher. They may have a deep, intuitive understanding of abstract concepts and spiritual truths. Unconventional Wisdom: They might possess knowledge that is unique, unconventional, or even revolutionary. They may challenge established beliefs or systems. Karmic Blessings for Knowledge: Often indicates a strong connection to spiritual knowledge or wisdom from past lives. Humanitarian Bent : Can make individuals very humanitarian, desiring to work for the benefit of all, often through unconventional means. Ganesha Yoga: In some interpretations, this conjunction, particularly if Jupiter is strong, can form a "Ganesha Yoga," blessing the native with sharp intellect, wisdom with purpose, and the ability to overcome obstacles (like Lord Ganesha). Challenges : Can lead to a feeling of dissatisfaction with traditional learning, a tendency to be argumentative, or even a lack of respect for gurus/teachers if Jupiter is afflicted. There can be a detachment from material prosperity, even if it's available. 2. Ketu + Venus Paradoxical Nature: Venus represents love, relationships, luxury, beauty, and material comforts. Ketu brings detachment and a desire for liberation. Positive Manifestations: Spiritualized Relationships: Can lead to a search for a higher, purer form of love, often detached from purely physical or material aspects. Individuals might find a profound spiritual connection in their relationships. Unconventional Artistic Expression: Excellent for artists, musicians, writers, dancers, or anyone in creative fields, as Ketu's unconventional nature can give a unique and profound touch to artistic expression. They might be drawn to abstract or spiritual art forms. Detachment from Materialism: While Venus usually craves luxury, Ketu's influence can lead to a healthy detachment from excessive materialism, even if one enjoys comfortable surroundings. Karmic Relationships: Can indicate past life relationships that manifest in this life, often with a karmic lesson or a need for closure. Challenges: Can lead to dissatisfaction in relationships, a feeling of being unfulfilled in love, unconventional or delayed marriage, or a tendency to abandon relationships when they become too serious. There might be a struggle with material desires and sensual pleasures. 3. Ketu + Mercury Paradoxical Nature: Mercury rules intellect, communication, logic, and quick thinking. Ketu signifies introspection, unconventional thought, and a disconnect from conventional thought processes. Positive Manifestations: Deep Research and Analytical Abilities: This combination can create a profound, sharp, and intuitive mind, excellent for research, analysis, and understanding complex, hidden, or esoteric subjects (e.g., astrology, psychology, occult). Unconventional Communication: Individuals may have a unique or very direct way of communicating, sometimes speaking profound truths in an unvarnished manner. Spiritual or Philosophical Writing: Strong potential for writing, especially on spiritual, philosophical, or unconventional topics. Intuitive Intellect: The logical mind of Mercury combines with Ketu's intuition, leading to insights that go beyond mere facts. Challenges: Can lead to difficulties in clear communication, mental confusion, overthinking, anxiety, or a tendency to speak in riddles. There might be a feeling of being misunderstood or a preference for solitude in thought. 4. Ketu + Moon Paradoxical Nature: The Moon represents emotions, mind, mother, and nurturing. Ketu brings detachment and an "otherworldly" quality. Positive Manifestations: Emotional Detachment (for Spiritual Growth): This can lead to a spiritual detachment from emotions, which can be beneficial for inner peace and spiritual practices like meditation. Strong Intuition/Psychic Abilities: Can enhance intuitive and psychic abilities, allowing the person to sense energies and understand subtle realities. Interest in Mysticism: A deep interest in the occult, spirituality, and hidden knowledge. Inner Strength : Despite emotional detachment, there can be a profound inner resilience and strength. Challenges: Can lead to emotional instability, feelings of loneliness, detachment from family (especially mother), mental restlessness, and difficulty forming deep emotional bonds. There might be a tendency for mood swings or unexplained fears if afflicted. Conclusion on Benefic Conjunctions with Ketu: While Ketu is often associated with detachment and difficulties, its conjunction with benefic planets redirects its energy. Instead of purely negative or destructive effects, it often leads to: Spiritual Inclination: A strong pull towards spirituality, moksha, and higher knowledge. Unconventional Talents: Unique abilities in creative, intellectual, or spiritual fields. Inner Wisdom: A deep, intuitive understanding that goes beyond superficial knowledge. Detachment (Positive): The ability to be in the world but not of it, reducing attachment to material outcomes, which can bring a unique form of peace and resilience. The exact effects will always depend on the house placement, zodiac sign, aspects from other planets, and the overall strength of the birth chart. A detailed analysis by a skilled Vedic astrologer is crucial for a precise understanding of such complex conjunctions. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
India.com
22-05-2025
- India.com
Experience The Enchanting Beauty Of Monsoon Season In Mumbai
Mumbai functions as India's leading western coastal metropolitan city which stands known for its energetic cultural scene alongside famous landmarks and energetic urban lifestyle. The urban center of Mumbai shifts into its most picturesque period when the monsoon season runs from June to September. Monsoons refresh the climate of Mumbai by carrying away brutal summer heat and spreading new vitality to every area. Seven factors make the Mumbai monsoon season absolutely enchanting. 1. The Revival of Nature When monsoon arrives Mumbai witnesses a complete transformation of its environmental scenery. Summer aridness disappears as the dry and dusty streets and exposed land areas transform into vibrant forests with fresh vegetation. The rainy season makes banyan trees and neem trees and gulmohar trees restore their vivid characteristics and Sanjay Gandhi National Park develops into thriving natural reserves filled with flora and fauna. The city comes alive through the seasonal rains which create unreal yet enchanting scenes as they transform streets and buildings. 2. Iconic Views of Marine Drive Marine Drive shows an enchanting 'Queen's Necklace' appearance during monsoon periods. The promenade experiences rough ocean conditions as sea waves keep crashing against its walls to create a beautiful sight for observers. During this season observers can witness the Arabian Sea sunset combined with rain under gentle drizzle when visiting the location. The relaxing wind combined with rainy sound patterns creates an enchanting romantic atmosphere at this recognizably great location. 3. A Culinary Delight The food culture of Mumbai produces its best expressions during the monsoon season while presenting its stunning natural scenery. Hot vada pav , pav bhaji and bhel puri are served on street vendor stalls where rain enhances their delightful taste. Pakora fritters and Masala Chai spiced tea assume the status of festival foods as traditional snacks throughout the season. The comfort food selections created the perfect match for mood which the rainy conditions initiate. 4. Exploring Heritage Sites Mumbai's historical sites become accessible for tourists during the monsoon season because the hot sun stays away. The grey skies and intermittent rain showers enhance the visual appeal of important landmarks like the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and the Haji Ali Dargah. The weather motivates people to slowly stroll through the historic neighborhoods of Fort and Colaba to experience Mumbai's colonial history. 5. Festivals and Celebrations The month when monsoon arrives brings multiple festivals which people in Mumbai enjoy celebrating with great excitement. Ganesh Chaturthi stands as the most important festival in Mumbai since it occurs in August or September. Forceful rainfall accompanies the installation of magnificent Lord Ganesha idols at both home temples and large public altars which continue to attract substantial crowds. Celebrations during monsoon receive added beauty from cultural passion which pairs perfectly with the tranquil weather conditions. 6. Rainy Adventures and Escapes Any explorer can discover many outdoor spaces throughout Mumbai during this rainy season. The scenic trails located near Matheran, Lonavala, and Khandala become increasingly attractive since the rainfalls have groomed the surrounding region with vibrant greenery and flowing waterfall features. Visitors can take advantage of day outings at both Aarey Milk Colony and Kanheri Caves which are located near the urban center. Mumbai transforms during rainstorms when residents can see it anew by taking both harbor ferry rides and boat tours near Elephanta Caves. 7. Romantic Atmosphere Monsoon season provides Mumbai with an atmosphere that naturally draws romantic feelings from its residents. The season creates romantic feelings which people experience when sharing rain protection together at Juhu Beach or admiring rainfall through café windows. Since Bollywood films have celebrated monsoon romance throughout history, living through this experience in Mumbai creates a magical movie moment in regular daily activities. Final Thoughts During the monsoon season Mumbai becomes a place where natural gifts blend perfectly with urban toughness. Mumbai brings much-needed respite from summer heat and simultaneously restores both the environment and presents multiple entertaining opportunities to celebrate this urban metropolis's distinctive charm. Mumbai offers an endless list of enjoyable activities during its enchanting monsoon season which includes street food exploration and heritage site exploration as well as exciting rain adventures. The monsoon brings a message of simple delight between natural elements and urban settings for both Mumbai residents and visitors. The rain experience in Mumbai should be accepted because it has the power to enchant visitors beyond measure.
Mint
21-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
‘Indians are open to innovation rooted in tradition': Lladró's global CEO
When Lladró, the Spanish luxury maker of artistic porcelain figurines, sculptures, lighting and home decor, launched its first store in (Mumbai) India in the early 2000s, the country was nowhere close to being considered a luxury market. But one thing that Lladró did a few years ahead of coming to India—a decision that in hindsight can be termed as 'thoughtful' —was launching the Spirit of India collection. Inspired by Hindu traditions, the collection offered the Indian customer handcrafted figurines of gods and goddesses among other works with a pronounced Indian theme. Priced between ₹8500 (for decorative plates) to ₹9,00,000 for the Rama-Sita limited edition sculpture, the Spirit of India collection helped the brand gain inroads into India. Also read: Sephora's global CEO Guillaume Motte has big plans for India 'The Divinity collection remains one of our top sellers in India, particularly our renditions of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi," says Ana Rodríguez Nogueiras, global CEO of Lladró in an email interview with Lounge. According to an official press note, India is the third-largest market for the brand and contributes 13% to its global revenue. Not just that, over the last two decades, the brand's presence in the country has expanded from one store to nine, across major Indian metros of New Delhi, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata. Last month, Lladró inaugurated its newest boutique at DLF The Chanakya, New Delhi. This 616 sq. ft-big venue is the fourth one in the NCR Region. And this is in addition to their boutique in New Delhi that's touted to be the second largest boutique in the world. 'The NCR region—and New Delhi in particular—has always been one of Lladró's strongest markets, both in terms of appreciation for craftsmanship and deep cultural alignment with our values," reveals Rodríguez Nogueiras about the brand's focus on the Capital. In this interaction, she also fields questions about the evolution of the Indian customer, Lladro's artistic collaborations, and the best thing about the job she's been helming for close to a decade. Edited excerpts: Lladró has been in India for over two decades. Based on your observations and interactions, what are some unique things that set the Indian customer apart from someone in Europe or the US? India has been a part of Lladró's journey for over two decades, and in that time, we have witnessed an evolution in the profile of the Indian customer, from primarily traditional art collectors to a more diverse audience that includes younger design-conscious buyers and collectors of contemporary art. What sets Indian clients apart is their strong emotional connection to meaningful pieces, their appreciation for detail, and their openness to innovation rooted in tradition. The kind of detailing that goes into the 'Spirit of India' sculpture collection is awe-inspiring. Since you have only one workshop in Valencia, what is the kind of cultural training that's given to your artists? Our only workshop is indeed in Valencia, but Lladró's creative process is deeply collaborative, and research driven. When we create culturally significant pieces like those in the 'Spirit of India' collection, our artists and designers work closely with cultural consultants, historians, and local experts. It is a meticulous process that involves studying iconography, gestures, meanings, and rituals, always with great respect. The result is not just a beautiful piece, but one that resonates. In India, are the Divinity figurines still the best sellers? What are some other creations that have sold well here? Yes, the Divinity collection remains one of our top sellers in India, particularly our renditions of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. However, we have also seen growing interest in our contemporary design pieces—especially lighting and home accessories—as well as our collaborative works likeThe Guest, which have found a following among younger collectors. Also read: Neo-punk jewellery gets a touch of Indian grandeur Is the 'Personalise You Lladró' initiative that you've started a bid to make art more accessible to your customers here?'Personalize Your Lladró' is a new initiative around one of our most iconic designs: the Firefly cordless lamp. It's an opportunity to offer a more personal touch within a controlled framework, allowing each piece to reflect the taste or sentiment of the person choosing it. While personalization is not a general option across the entire catalogue, this project opens the door to a more expressive and emotionally resonant experience, something that speaks to the evolving definition of luxury. Lladro's image has pivoted from just being a company that makes beautiful porcelain figurines to one that 'creates art' out of porcelain with your creative collaborations. Are these artistic collaborations the way forward for the brand? Collaborations are not just part of the future; they are part of our DNA today. Lladró is evolving from a brand known for figurative porcelain to a creative platform where tradition meets contemporary expression. Through artistic collaborations, we have expanded our creative language and connected with new audiences—while remaining true to our roots in craftsmanship. How do you choose the artists to work with? We look for artists who resonate with Lladró's values: vision, originality, and a deep respect for material. The creative process is always a dialogue—artists bring their ideas, and our artisans bring technical mastery. It is a beautiful exchange that leads to works likeThe Guest(byJaime Hayon), which continues to grow as a platform for artistic diversity. You did a collaboration with Loewe Perfumes last year, making floral porcelain bottle toppers for them. How exciting was that collaboration? It was a beautiful project and a very meaningful one. We created handcrafted porcelain floral bottle toppers that reflected both Loewe's botanical inspiration and Lladró's craftsmanship. It was a perfect meeting point between art, fragrance, and design, and a great example of how we can bring artistry into other luxury domains. Also read: The key to unlocking India's luxury market What does a day in your life look like? How often do you meet the creative team to brainstorm new ideas and see what they are working on? Every day is different—but one constant is the proximity to our creative team. Whether it is reviewing new prototypes, discussing trends, or exploring collaborations, there is a strong sense of shared vision. I find those moments—when ideas become tangible—truly energizing. You've been at the helm of Lladro for close to a decade. What continues to be the best thing about the job? And what's a recent Lladro creation that left you awe-inspired? What remains most exciting is the emotion that Lladró pieces awaken in people. Even after all these years, seeing how craftsmanship, storytelling, and innovation come together to create something meaningful is deeply rewarding. One recent piece that left me in awe is Ephemeral Treasures, a powerful reflection on the fragility of nature, created with the artist Dulk. It shows how far porcelain can go as a language of contemporary art. Also read: Elevate your style with embroidered accessories. Here's how
India.com
21-05-2025
- Business
- India.com
Mystery Bengaluru man buys Rs 200 crore private jet, hires Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani's family panditji for..., WATCH viral video
We're all used to seeing people perform pujas for their new cars, bikes, or even trucks. But recently, a video has taken the internet by surprise this time, the puja wasn't for a car, but for a private jet. Yes, you read that right. A Gulfstream G280 jet worth nearly Rs. 200 crore was the center of a full-fledged Hindu puja ceremony, carried out by none other than Pandit Chandrashekhar Sharma, one of India's well-known priests. The video was shared on Instagram by the panditji himself which showed him walking towards the private jet, which was parked at an airport in Bengaluru, Karnataka. He then sits down in front of the aircraft and begins the rituals right there on the tarmac. The ceremony included all the traditional steps: lighting the holy fire, chanting mantras, and performing the usual prayers. Next, the priest moved to the front of the jet and applied a tilak (vermilion mark) on it, a common part of many Indian rituals. He also went inside the aircraft to continue the ceremony. Inside, small idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswati were worshipped, seeking blessings for safe journeys and prosperity. The video even shows the pilot and the jet's owner sitting in the cockpit, quietly watching as the puja continued. At the end of the ceremony, a garland was placed on the exterior of the aircraft, and the owner joined in for the final rituals. He was later seen clicking a cheerful selfie with the Pandit. Jet owner still a mystery While the video reveals a lot about the ceremony, the identity of the jet's owner hasn't been made public. What is known is that the jet is registered under Empire Aviation, based in San Marino, California, USA. The puja, however, was held in India, indicating the buyer could be an Indian entrepreneur or high-net-worth individual. Gulfstream G280: A luxurious private jet with powerful features The Gulfstream G280 is a high-end private jet that offers seating for up to 10 people. This sleek aircraft comes with a hefty price tag ranging from Rs. 150 crore to Rs. 200 crore. It's powered by two Honeywell HTF7250G turbofan engines, each capable of producing up to 33 kilonewtons of thrust, giving it the strength and speed you'd expect from a world-class jet. In terms of technology, the G280 doesn't disappoint. It features the advanced Rockwell Collins ProLine Fusion avionics suite, complete with moving map displays, cursor control devices, and a standby multifunction controller. This jet can fly up to 900 km/h and has a range of about 6,667 kilometers, making it perfect for long-distance travel in style and comfort. The man behind the ritual: Pandit Chandrashekhar Sharma The priest seen performing the ritual in the viral private jet video is Pandit Chandrashekhar Sharma, a well-known spiritual guide and astrologer in India. He's respected for conducting important Hindu rituals for many well-known families and business tycoons. In fact, he also officiated the wedding of Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, India's richest man. Earlier such pujas This isn't the first time a luxury flying machine has been blessed with a traditional Hindu ceremony. Earlier, a businessman from Hyderabad, Boinpally Srinivas Rao, took his brand-new Airbus ACH-135 helicopter, worth around Rs. 50 crore to the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Yadadri for a Vahan Puja. Rao, who heads the Prathima Group, made sure the new helicopter was blessed before its maiden flight. It's not just billionaires and big jets getting all the attention. Last year, an Indian aircraft owner performed Hindu rituals for a Piper Cherokee 140, a small light aircraft built for training, personal flying, and air taxi services. These aircraft typically seat two to four people and are ideal for private use.
