Latest news with #LordGanesha
Deccan Herald
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Deccan Herald
Remona enters Golden Book of World Records for longest Bharatanatyam performance
Remona had begun her Bharatanatyam marathon on July 21 at 10 am and continued dancing until July 28 at 12 noon. Beginning with an invocation to Lord Ganesha, Remona concluded her record marathon with a performance to a devotional song on Goddess Durga.
India.com
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
The Magical Festival Glow That Turns Mumbai Into a Dreamland
Mumbai, the mesmerizing financial capital of India, is characterized by its speed, continuous skyscrapers, and congested local trains. But behind its proactive facade is a city with deep roots in culture. When major festivals come around, Mumbai experiences an astonishing transformation. Streets come alive with deep passion, neighborhoods join hands in appreciation, and cities are decorated with a spectrum of colors, extravagant lights, and creative masterpieces. The city does not reserve its vibrantly colorful view from Diwali's golden glow to Ganesh Chaturthi's grand processions, instead, it showcases a fantastic sight year round. These events are not just ceremonies, they change how the city is defined. Diwali: The Where Everything is Fast-Paced, Now Glimmering and Radiating in Light The festival of lights, Diwali, turns Mumbai into a glittering wonderland. Around the time of celebration, sites such as Crawford Market, Zaveri Bazaar, and Linking Road resemble megaliths with towers of incense, mounds of sweets, and astonishing glowing lanterns. The shops go head to head with each other using garlands of marigold, sconces, and LED fairy lights to shine brighter than the previously competing shop. Both the ghetto and the high class areas of the city sparkle with illuminated diyas lining the windows, showcasing the victory of luminosity over obscurity. The spectacular light displays decorating Mumbai's famous structures like Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus put the city in a festive mood. Fireworks light up the sky over Marine Drive and families sitting on terraces taking in the view share sweets and laughter. Strangers greet each other and traffic slows down as neighborhoods become centers of glee. The rush of the city is set aside Diwali. The warmth and festive spirit is what one experiences during this time as the city softens a bit. Ganesh Chaturthi: When the City Bows to the Elephant God Celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi is an experience like no other. The city celebrates the festival for ten days and does so by honoring Lord Ganesha, the remover of all obstacles. It is through enormous and artistically designed pandals (temporary shrines) that this city comes alive. Idols made from gold-leaf, fluorescent paint and other eco-friendly materials beautifully capture the modern and traditional aspects of our country. Every locality has its own shrine, the Lalbaugcha Raja is one of the most famous and draws millions of devotees. The visarjan (immersion) procession is the festival's highlight. As millions of people fill the streets to celebrate with dance, music, and chanting 'Ganpati Bappa Morya!', they bring their idols to the sea. Chowpatty Beach and Girgaon turn into oceans of people as the city prepares to say goodbye to their cherished deity. The immersion serves as a representation of the multitasking spirit of Mumbai, meaning the willingness to change while still maintaining possession of one's faith. In the current eco-friendly age, the celebrations have been further enhanced with the introduction of clay idols and artificial ponds to aid in environmental sustainability. Christmas in the Tropics: A Frosty Fantasy While being a minority, Mumbai's Christian population certainly knows how to celebrate the holiday season as they decorate the city in green and red. Bandra is known for being home to iconic churches such as the Mount Mary Basilica, which transform into celebratory centers. Streets are filled with star-shaped lanterns, tinsel-covered Christmas trees, and life-sized Nativity decorations. There are also overflowing bakeries on Hill Road and Byculla with carolers enthusiastically performing in English, Konkani, and Marathi. Malls and business districts in Mumbai get into the spirit by putting out decorations featuring Santa Claus cutouts, fake snow machines, and reindeer displays adorned with glitter. Windows often bear a faux frost while parks like Oval Maidan turn into Christmas carnivals. The joyous inclusivity of the festival brings in people from all religions who come together to celebrate by attending Bandra's Midnight Mass or sharing cakes with neighbors, signifying the secular heart of the city. Eid-ul-Fitr: A Feast Under the Moonlit Sky Celebrating Eid marks the end of Ramadan and gets the Mohammed Ali Road and Bhendi Bazaar in Mumbai's Muslim dominated areas lively. Stalls offering caps, ittar (perfume), and mehndi designs line the streets. These areas are a heaven for food lovers, with sizzling kebabs, syrupy phirnis and flaky malpuas drawing people from all over the city during the night. The minarets of Haji Ali Dargah and Jama Masjid are illuminated with fairy lights which showcase their beauty during the night. Non Muslims indulging in desserts like seviyan (vermicelli pudding) and those shopping for goodies highlight the community spirit of the festival. Even after considering the pluralism of the city, Eid is a stark reminder of the joy that brings people of all backgrounds together. Navratri And Dussehra: Nine Nights of Dance and Drama Garba dances places across parks, clubs, and even parking lots are turned into venues by the Gujarati and the Marwari during Navratri in Mumbai. Women dressed in chaniya cholis and men dressed in kurtas dance elegantly to rhythmic music. In addition, during Dussehra, outdoor spaces are filled with Ram Leela performances and at the end of the highlight of the show where giant effigies of Ravana are set on fire to illuminate the night landscape. Conclusion: A City That Celebrates as One Instead of a migration form of art witnessing abandoned structures, the resurrection of Mumbai will celebrate hope and defiance. These festivals have proven to transcend the boundaries of religion, caste or boundaries of a community. The towns transform into courtyards, commuters change into friends for a festive occasion. The city, illuminated by dazzling lights, emerges out of deep sleep to mark the festivities and celebrates unity in diversity. From this we learn that 'Hero is someone who can reverse the pessimism downpour,' and that, amidst the chaos of Mumbai, it stands steadfast ready to redeem itself.
News18
4 days ago
- Health
- News18
Traditional Wisdom: Using The Right Oil In Your Diya For Spiritual Harmony
Last Updated: While there is no right or wrong when it comes to lighting diyas, it is important to use different oils as per the requirement in your house. Lighting a diya is a timeless tradition in Indian households. Whether it's for a puja, a festive occasion, or simply part of your daily routine, the warm glow of a diya is believed to bring a sense of peace and, of course, good vibes. Not only does it act as a protector, but it also has an influence on the energy in the house. While there is no right or wrong when it comes to lighting diyas, it is important to use different oils as per the requirement in your house. Desi Ghee Diya – Spiritual Energy For deep spiritual connection and a peaceful mind, a diya lit with desi ghee is the perfect way to do the best. Considered the most sacred in Vedic practices, they are believed to purify the atmosphere and energise the heart and chakras. For maximum effect, use ghee made from cow milk, prepared traditionally. Mahua Oil Diya – Cosmic and Earthy Balance Mahua oil holds a special place in both tribal and Vedic traditions, and it is said to balance the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and space. Mostly used to light diyas during festivals and sacred rituals, this specific diya brings blessings from nature itself, contributing to harmony and connection with the environment. Til oil is a classic choice for those seeking emotional clarity and spiritual protection. Lighting a sesame oil diya during prayers or meditation can help clear mental clutter, balance emotions, and ward off negativity. It's often used in rituals involving Lord Bhairava and is known to reduce karmic burdens. The steady flame of til oil helps anchor the mind, making it ideal for focused spiritual practices. Mustard Oil Diya – To Cleanse Air Mustard oil is a common and practical choice for everyday diya lighting, thanks to its easy availability. But, it is also the oil's cleansing properties—both spiritually and physically, which makes it an apt pick for many to use daily. In Vastu and astrology, mustard oil is believed to help with Saturn-related doshas and keep illnesses at bay. Coconut oil is deeply respected in South Indian traditions and is often used while praying to Lord Ganesha. The soft and clean light of the oil symbolises purity, peace, and prosperity. The diyas lit up using the oil are known to attract good vibes, enhance relationships and bring a calm, happy atmosphere. For those looking to purify their homes and minds alike, coconut oil is what they need. view comments First Published: July 26, 2025, 15:38 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
New Indian Express
21-07-2025
- New Indian Express
Bengali idol makers in Indore face Bajrang Dal's wrath over controversial Ganesha idols
BHOPAL: Bengali idol makers living in Indore had to face the wrath of Bajrang Dal men, over making of modern style and controversial idols of Lord Ganesha for the upcoming Ganesha Puja festival. At least three Bengali idol makers, identified as Chandra Nath Pal, Raju Pal and Ratan Lal Pal, had to face the anger of Bajrang Dal men led by Praveen Darekar and Lucky Raghuvanshi in Khajrana area on Sunday evening. Angered over the Bengali idol makers creating idols showing the Hindu god of knowledge, wisdom and new beginnings holding holding female idols(looking like models), the Hindu right-winger men blackened the faces of three idol makers and then took them to Indore's Khajrana police station. In a video pertaining to the incident, three Bengali idol makers can be seen standing with the Bajrang Dal men in the police station premises. In the 1.51 minutes video, faces of the three idol makers can be seen blackened. The idol makers can be seen telling the Hindu outfit's men that the concerned Lord Ganesha idols were being made as per pictures given by the customers (some Ganesha Puja organisers) of Indore only.
Time of India
18-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Observe Sankashti Vrat on August 12: Lord Ganesha's blessings for a smooth journey ahead
On the Chaturthi date of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, the Sankashti Chaturthi fast will be observed. The Chaturthi that falls after Purnima (Full Moon) during the Krishna Paksha is known as Sankashti Chaturthi or Sankat Chauth. According to Hindu beliefs, observing this fast helps in the removal of all kinds of obstacles and troubles. According to Celebrity Astrologer Parduman Suri, on August 12, the moonrise will occur at 8:20 PM, and it will set on August 13 at 6:35 AM. Therefore, the Sankashti Chaturthi fast for the month of August will be observed on August 12, and the fast is concluded after sighting the moon. Each lunar month in the Hindu calendar has one sacred day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, which falls on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha. When this Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is specially known as Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi, Angarika Chaturthi, or simply Angaraki. The day is called Sankashti Chaturthi, and the fast is observed to overcome life's challenges and to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings. By observing this vrat (fast), Lord Ganesha removes all obstacles and brings prosperity and happiness into one's life. Fasting Rituals * First, clean the idol and the area of Lord Ganesha with Ganga water before installing the idol. * Offer Durva grass, highly favored by Lord Ganesha, fresh flowers, ghee lamps and other sacred items during the puja. * Begin the worship with chanting of mantras and recitation of the vrat katha. * In the evening, after performing puja and aarti, offer Arghya (water offering) to the moon, which marks the completion of the ritual. This article is written by celebrity Astrologer Parduman Suri. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
