Latest news with #Puranas
India Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Mahavatar Narsimha director Ashwin Kumar: Want to see Hrithik Roshan ias Nataraja
Filmmaker Ashwin Kumar, who is gearing up for the release of his mythological epic 'Mahavatar Narsimha', is already deep into planning his next films. In an exclusive chat with India Today, the director spoke about his upcoming mythological projects and shared his vision of seeing Hrithik Roshan portray a divine role on 'Mahavatar Narasimha' marks his directorial debut, Ashwin revealed that two more ambitious mythological films are already in development. Shedding light on what's next, he shared, 'I will be bringing out 'Ajamila', it's another epic from the Puranas, but it will be live action. 'Mahavatar Narsimha' is a soft way to awaken the soul; that one (Ajamila) is a very hard way to awaken the soul. We will be doing that.'advertisementHe further added, 'I will tell more about it later, and we will also be doing a film on Ardhnarishwar, which is half Shiva, half Shakti - but this one will be set in a more real-world, modern-day scenario. So it will have a fantasy element too. These are both live-action films.' When asked if any actors were in talks for these upcoming projects, Ashwin clarified that casting will be dictated by the screenplay. 'Not yet. I am scripting it right now, but soon. I have some things in my mind about it. The writing tells you what actor is suited to it. I don't usually write with an actor suited for the role. I have to be true to the story, I have to be true to the screenplay, and the character. So, the character sculpts the actor, that's how I feel it,' he continued, 'And then my direction would help the character understand the story and screenplay, and then it meshes into this proper harmony.'On the topic of actors he'd like to collaborate with, Ashwin didn't hesitate. 'Hrithik Roshan!' he said instantly, going on to describe why the superstar would be a perfect fit for a mythological fantasy film. 'Hrithik is a demigod personified, when you look at his structure and his good moves as a dancer. So, I think him playing some sort of fantastical character, apart from the films that he does, is a part of his career. I would want to see him in that kind of a fantastic role.'And the role Ashwin envisions for Hrithik? 'Probably Nataraja, a dancer. A dancer who would create or destroy cosmically,' he has been much speculation about Hrithik being the initial choice to play Ravan in Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana'. When asked if he believes Hrithik would have been the right fit, Ashwin offered a clear perspective. 'No, I think Yash is wonderful as Ravan, he has the look.''Mahavatar Narsimha' is all set to release on July 25.- EndsMust Watch
The Hindu
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Badri-Kedar Temple Committee seeking legal advice over construction of replica of Kedarnath temple in Samajwadi Party's bastion Etawah
Opposing the construction of the replica of Kedarnath temple in Samajwadi Party's (SP) bastion, Etawah, the authorities of Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) said on Saturday (July 19, 2025) that they are seeking legal advice in the matter. The priest community in Uttarakhand is also up in arms against the temple project, launched by former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav. The construction of over 70 feet tall Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple, which looks exactly like Kedarnath temple, started in 2021. Being built at the approximate cost of ₹50 crore in front of Safari Park in Etawah, the home turf of SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadav and is likely to be completed in the next six months. Akhilesh Yadav had recently shared a video of the temple on social stirring controversy over the same. Condemning the move of building the replica of a temple of 'religious and mythological importance', BKTC President Hemant Dwivedi said that Kedarnath temple is one of the 11 Jyotirlinga and it should not be copied in any way. 'It is mentioned in the Vedas and Puranas that Kedarnath Dham is located in the Himalayan region, hence the replica temple of this important religious place should not be built elsewhere, it is against religious beliefs,' he said. Mr. Dwivedi added that appropriate steps will be taken after legal opinion in the matter. he added that BKTC has also brought in the notice of the state government. Suresh Semwal, president of Char Dham Teerth Purohit Mahapanchyat, the body of priests associated with char dham temples, said that construction of the replica of Kedarnath temple in Etawah is not only tampering with religious sentiments of people but also an attack on the identity and tradition of the Hindu temples. 'It is an insult to faith of millions of Hindus. If Uttarakhand government will not take appropriate measure to stop the construction of the temple in Etawah, the priest community will be forced to move to court,' he added. After a Statewide agitation by the priest community last year, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) lead Uttarakhand government had pushed for a halt on the proposed construction of Kedarnath temple in Delhi's Burari. The project in Burari was inaugurated by the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami who faced a lot of heat over the same. After both political pressure from the Opposition Congress and from the Char Dham temple priests, the State government had proposed in the Cabinet to make take legal action on the misuse of the name of Char Dham temples.
NDTV
15-07-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Political Parties Relying On Caste Considerations Dangerous For Country: Supreme Court
New Delhi: Political parties relying on caste considerations are equally dangerous for the country, the Supreme Court observed on Tuesday as it refused to entertain a plea seeking cancellation of the registration of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) as a political party. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi pointed out that according to the constitution of the AIMIM, its objective is to work for every backward section of the society, including minorities, which is professed by the Constitution. "The party says they will work for every backward class in the society, including those belonging to minority communities and Muslims who are backward both economically and in the field of education. This is what our Constitution professes. There are certain rights guaranteed to minorities under the Constitution and the party's political manifesto or constitution says it will work for the protection of those rights granted under the Constitution," the bench told advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, who appeared in the court on behalf of the petitioner. The bench, which asked Jain to withdraw the plea filed against a Delhi High Court order that dismissed a writ petition challenging the registration and recognition of the AIMIM by the Election Commission (EC), granted liberty to the petitioner to file a writ petition, wherein he may make a wider prayer for reforms in respect of political parties on different counts. "You may be right that there are some grey areas, where even after giving an undertaking, a party or a candidate of the party may indulge in a campaign which may raise religious sentiments, but for that one can bring the incident to the notice of an appropriate forum. "There are some political parties which rely on caste considerations, which is equally dangerous for the country. This is not allowed. So you may file a neutral petition which does not accuse any specific political party or accuses any individual and raises general issues. Bring to our notice and we will take care of it," the bench told the petitioner. Jain, who represented petitioner Tirupati Narasimha Murari, submitted that the AIMIM also says it will promote Islamic education amongst Muslims and create general awareness to abide by Sharia law. Justice Kant said, "So what is wrong in that? Teaching Islamic education is not wrong. We will welcome if more and more political parties establish educational institutions in the country. There is nothing wrong with it." Jain contended that there is discrimination as he claimed that if he goes to the EC to register a political party with a Hindu name and gives an undertaking that he wants to teach the Vedas, the Puranas and the Upanishads, his application would be rejected. The bench said, "If the ECI raises any such objection against the teaching of the Vedas, the Puranas, the Shastras or any religious scriptures, please go to the appropriate forum. Law will take care of that. There is nothing wrong in the reading of our old treatise, books or literature or history. Absolutely, there is no prohibition under law." Justice Kant further told Jain that if a political party says it will promote untouchability, that is absolutely offending and must be struck down and banned but if the Constitution protects a religious law and the party says it wants to teach that to people, then there is nothing wrong in it. "Suppose a religious law is protected under the Constitution and a political party says we will teach that law, they will be allowed to teach because it is protected under the Constitution. This is within the framework of the Constitution and is not objectionable," Justice Kant said. On January 16, a division bench of the Delhi High Court rejected the plea challenging the registration and recognition of the AIMIM, saying the party fulfilled all the requirements that are mandated under the law. The high court agreed with the view of a single-judge bench that on November 20, last year said the petition was without merits and the arguments amounted to interference with the fundamental rights of the AIMIM members to constitute themselves as a political party, espousing their political beliefs and values.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Seeing Angel Numbers 111, 108, or 808 on Sawan Somvar? Here's What Mahadev Is Telling You
Sawan Somvar is not just a day of fasting and offering water to Lord Shiva. It is a sacred time when the doors of divine blessings open wider for those who are willing to walk the path of bhakti and inner reflection. During this auspicious month, the universe becomes more sensitive to our thoughts, emotions, and karmas. Many devotees begin to notice certain signs from the universe—a sudden appearance of repeating numbers (Angel Numbers) like 111, 108, or 808. These are not coincidences. These are sanket, divine indications from Mahadev himself. In our ancient tradition, numbers have always held spiritual importance. Be it the 108 beads of a japmala or the 11 Rudras mentioned in the Puranas, every number carries the energy of a tattva (element) or a deeper truth. When these numbers appear again and again during Sawan, especially on Somvar (Monday), it is Lord Shiva's way of whispering guidance into your life. Let us understand the meaning of these sacred numbers from the viewpoint of Shiva Tatva and how to respond to them with devotion and simplicity. 111: A Call Towards Inner Awakening If you keep seeing 111 on Sawan Somvar—whether on the clock, a bill, or a vehicle number—pause and take it as a direct nivedan from Lord Shiva. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo This number carries the energy of beginnings. In Shiv Tatva, 111 represents the one-pointed focus needed to rise above maya (illusion) and step into inner dhyan (concentration). Mahadev is saying, "Now is the time to align your thoughts. Do not let the mind wander in doubt, fear or distraction." In many yogic paths, the first step towards Shiva is the stillness of the mind. 111 is a reminder to slow down your racing thoughts. You are being guided to purify your sankalp (intention). In this Sawan, each thought you offer to Lord Shiva is like a flower. Make it fragrant with truth and simplicity. What You Can Do When You See 111: Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" 11 times with full shraddha (devotion). Sit quietly for 11 minutes and mentally offer your confusion at Shiva's feet. Light a diya before a Shivling or photo of Mahadev and ask him to guide your mind. This number asks you to bring your wandering energy into oneness. Let your breath become your mala, and your mind your temple. 108: The Sacred Cycle of Surrender There is no number more sacred in Sanatan Dharma than 108. Our japmalas have 108 beads, symbolising the journey of the soul through worldly attachments towards moksha. When you see 108 repeatedly during Sawan Somvar, take it as Mahadev's gentle push to begin or deepen your spiritual practice. 108 is not just a number—it is a full circle. It represents the union of Atma (individual soul) with Paramatma (Supreme Soul). Lord Shiva, the Adiyogi, is reminding you that your life is part of a larger rhythm, and by offering your ego into that divine rhythm, you find peace. During Sawan, this number becomes even more powerful. It tells you to bow your head and surrender your doership. Stop trying to control every result. Surrender to Shiva's will. What You Can Do When You See 108: Start doing 108 japas of 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra' or 'Om Namah Shivaya' daily. Keep a 108-bead mala near your Shiv murti and use it during your evening puja. Write down your worries and burn them with camphor in front of Mahadev, as a symbolic surrender. 108 asks us to dissolve our ahankar (ego) and walk the path of bhakti with a full heart. During Sawan, even the smallest act of devotion multiplies manifold. 808: Balancing Earthly Life and Spiritual Duty 808 is not often mentioned in ancient texts, but its spiritual resonance cannot be ignored, especially when it appears frequently during holy periods like Sawan. This number carries a message of balance. The number 8 appears twice, and zero sits in the middle. In the eyes of a Shiv Bhakt, 8 represents karmic cycles and strength, while 0 represents shoonya—the void, the state of Shiva himself. Seeing 808 means Mahadev is asking you to balance your worldly responsibilities with your inner spiritual journey. Don't get too lost in the outside world, and don't neglect your worldly duties in the name of sadhana either. Like Nandi, who stands still yet alert, be grounded and inward at once. This number often appears to those who are walking the grihastha path (householder's life) and are struggling to maintain inner peace amidst outer noise. It is a blessing in disguise, a reminder that Mahadev walks with you in your kitchen, office, and mandir alike. What You Can Do When You See 808: Recite 'Shiv Panchakshari Stotra' after your daily bath. Offer milk or water to Shivling with both hands—symbolising body and soul. Take a sankalp to remain calm in family matters and treat your work as seva. Mahadev lives not just in Kailash, but in your karmabhoomi (field of action). 808 is a number that teaches divine balance. How to Receive These Messages with Bhakti Many devotees ask, "Are these just numbers, or truly divine signs?" The answer lies in your bhaav (intention). If your heart is filled with surrender and simplicity, then yes, these numbers become Mahadev's sanket to you. During Sawan, the veil between this world and the divine realm becomes thinner. Every Monday, the earth is filled with Shiva tattva. If your eyes and heart are open, you will notice these signs not as coincidences, but as blessings. Here are a few simple ways to become more receptive: Wake up before sunrise and do a short namaskar to the East. Keep your food satvik (pure) and light. Offer water to the Sun and pray for Shiva's presence in every karma. Avoid harsh speech, especially on Somvar. Keep silence for 11 minutes daily and listen to your breath. Shiva speaks to those who are quiet enough to listen. These numbers are his way of holding your hand, saying, "I am with you. Keep walking." Whether it is 111, 108, or 808, each number that appears during Sawan Somvar is dipped in divine grace. They are like the footprints of Shiva leading you home. Do not ignore them. Welcome them with folded hands. Let them become your daily dhyan. This Sawan, let your eyes not only see these numbers but feel them. Let your mind not only decode their meaning, but also bow to the truth behind them. In the world of Mahadev, even a whisper becomes a mantra, and even a number becomes a teaching. 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 .
Hans India
10-07-2025
- General
- Hans India
MyVoice: Views of our readers 10th July 2025
Let's celebrate our gurus and mentors A 'Guru' removes the darkness of ignorance by imparting us 'Apara Vidya' (temporal knowledge). Guru Purnima is celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Guru Purnima traces back to the birth of 'Veda Vyasa', the author of the Mahabharata and Puranas. The day is auspicious for seeking the blessings of Veda Vyasa, considered as 'Maya Guru'. It is also the day when The Buddha delivered his first sermon to his first five disciples. This day promotes the values of gratitude, reverence, wisdom, and knowledge. It has spiritual, scriptural, and cultural roots. Let's offer thanksgiving prayers to our teachers, mentors and parents because of whom we are progressing in life. Dr Burra Madhusudhan Reddy, Karimnagar Gambhira bridge collapse exposes insensitive officialdom Standing steadfast on the chest of the Mahisagar River for decades, the four-decade old Gambhira bridge, connecting Vadodara and Anand, lay in tatters following a deafening explosion at 7:30 am on Wednesday. Five vehicles plunged into the river's depths while 10 persons reportedly lost their lives, though five were saved during the rescue operations. The authorities must be held responsible for this avoidable tragedy as locals have been highlighting its fast-decaying state for years together. We wonder why there has been a delay in the construction of a new bridge although Rs 212 crore was approved for this work. This catastrophe is not just an accident but a stinging slap on our insensitivity. Prof RK Jain, Barwani (MP) No more 'last benchers'in Kerala schools The elimination of the 'last benchers' concept in schools in Kerala marks a transformative shift in education. Every student, regardless of their position, is recognized for their unique potential. This inclusive approach fosters collaboration, encourages diverse talents, and inspires a generation to embrace learning without labels. Together, we rise! TS Karthik, Chennai Kudos to TGSRTC for extending online payment facility We would like to thank the TGSRTC authorities for introducing QR code online payment facility in some city routes-Secunderabad to Afzalgunj via Warasiguda. This will help in considerably reducing the change problem and arguments between the grumbling conductors and the helpless commuters. We urge the corporation to maximise the use of electronic tickets and help save paper, trees, the environment and thereby our lives. Hope all modes of transportation will take cue and follow suit. PVP Madhu Nivriti, Secunderabad-61 Bharat Bandh woes Wednesday's Bharat Bandh, backed by 25 crore workers, speaks volumes but also raises troubling questions. While the cry for labour justice is loud, is shutting down public services the answer? Though the bandh may spotlight workers' woes, it also cripples movements of the very citizens they claim to represent. Labour rights are vital, but what of public rights? A democracy must balance both. Mohammad Hasnain, Muzaffarpur
