Latest news with #Sufism


New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Kashmir is paradise on earth, Sufism promoted secularism: CJI Gavai
SRINAGAR: Chief Justice of India Justice B R Gavai on Sunday described Kashmir as 'Paradise on Earth' and said that Sufism has truly promoted secularism in the country. While addressing the North Zone Regional Conference of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in Srinagar, the CJI began his speech with the famous Persian couplet: 'Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast' (If there is a paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here and it is only here). 'I am happy that I am again getting the opportunity to meet you in Kashmir, which is known as paradise. Whenever I have visited Kashmir, I have received love from everybody,' he said. 'I feel like I have come to my hometown. I am thankful for all the love and affection showered on me. I have been to all parts of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh,' he added. 'Kashmir's valleys, mountains, rivers, streams, if we see these, it can be safely said that Kashmir is a true paradise.' The CJI spoke about Kashmir's 3,000-year-old civilisational heritage and its rich culture. He credited Sufism for upholding the values of secularism as enshrined in the Constitution of India. 'Sufism has truly promoted secularism,' he asserted. Referring to secularism in Jammu and Kashmir, the CJI said, 'In Dargahs, every section of society, including Hindus, Muslims or Sikhs, go. Similarly, people of every religion go to Mandirs and Gurudwaras.' Justice Gavai lauded the efforts of NALSA and the J&K Legal Services Authority for convening the interaction. He also reflected on the legal and administrative foundation laid in the region as early as 1846, calling it one of the oldest and most structured legal systems in India. 'From 1928 till before the independence of the country, a high court had been established here and the Maharajas here also respected the orders passed by the high court,' he said. 'In the country's Constitution, we have promised ourselves justice, political, social and economic. We are bound to see that justice is implemented in its true spirit. The legal fraternity needs to have a commitment to the true values of the Constitution,' he added. The CJI said that while Babasaheb B R Ambedkar brought about political justice by adopting the principle of 'one person, one vote and one value', the author of the Constitution also spoke about social compartmentalisation and the difficulty of moving from one compartment to another. 'Our society has been divided into different compartments. The entry from one compartment to another is nearly impossible. On the economic front, our wealth is concentrated in a few hands while the vast majority of the people find it difficult to have two meals a day. We will have to eliminate this inequality and bring about social and economic equality in the true sense. We all have to remain committed to this — whether it is the executive, legislature or judiciary. We are bound to see to it that social and economic justice is implemented in true spirit in this country,' he said. Indirectly referring to the situation in Kashmir over the last 35 years, the CJI said there have been aberrations that need to be undone. 'There have been aberrations, but we have to work to remove these. This dialogue between judges and lawyers will give a new perspective. I am sure this programme will help in rebuilding the traditional and undivided Kashmir where all communities, Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, used to live together,' he said. Asserting that lawyers and judges are like two wheels of the golden chariot of justice, the CJI said, 'If you span one wheel, the efficacy of the entire chariot comes to a standstill. For this, lawyers and judges should work together to give justice to the people who live in the last village of this country. Unless people have the knowledge of their rights, the rights are of no use.' In a key policy suggestion, the CJI urged the Chief Justice of the J&K High Court to consider establishing a separate bench for the Union Territory of Ladakh, acknowledging the consistent demand raised by the Ladakh Bar.


New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Kashmir is paradise on earth, sufsim promoted secularism: CJI Gavai
SRINAGAR: Praising Kashmir, the Chief Justice of India Justice B R Gavai on Sunday described Kashmir as 'Paradise on Earth' and said Sufism has truly promoted secularism in the country. While addressing the North Zone Regional Conference of National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in Srinagar, the CJI started his address by famous Persian couplet, 'Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast' (If there is a paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here and it is only here).' 'I am happy that I am again getting the opportunity to meet you in Kashmir, which is known as paradise. Whenever I have visited Kashmir, I have got love from everybody,' he said. 'I feel like I have come to my hometown. I am thankful for all the love and affection showered on me. I have been to all parts of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh,' the CJI said. 'Kashmir's Valleys, mountains, rivers, streams and if we see these, it can be safely said that Kashmir is a true paradise.' The CJI spoke of Kashmir's 3,000-year-old civilisational heritage and rich culture. He credited Sufism for upholding the values of secularism written in our country's constitution. 'The Sufism has truly promoted secularism,' he asserted. Referring to secularism in J&K, the CJI said in Dargahs, every section of society including Hindus, Muslims or Sikhs go. 'Similarly, people of every religion go to Mandirs and Gurudwaras' CJO Gavai lauded efforts of NALSA and J&K Legal Services Authority for convening the interaction. He also reflected on the legal and administrative foundation laid in the region as early as 1846, calling it one of the oldest and most structured legal systems in India. 'From 1928 till before independence of the country, a high court had been established here and Maharajas here also respected the orders passed by the high court,' he said. 'In the country's Constitution, we have promised ourselves justice — political, social and economic. We are bound to see that justice is implemented in its true spirit. The legal fraternity needs to have a commitment to the true values of the Constitution,' he said. The CJI said that while Babasaheb B R Ambedkar brought about political justice by adopting the principle 'one person, one vote and one value', the author of the Constitution spoke about social compartmentalisation and the difficulty of moving from one compartment to another. 'Our society has been divided into different compartments. The entry from one compartment to another is nearly impossible. On the economic front, our wealth is concentrated in a few hands while the vast majority of the people find it difficult to have two meals a day. We will have to eliminate this inequality and bring about social and economic equality in the true sense. We have all to remain committed to this whether it is executive, legislature or judicial. We are bound to see to it that social and economic justice is implemented in true spirit in this country,' he said. Indirectly referring to the situation in Kashmir during the last 35 years, the CJI said there have been aberrations that need to be undone. 'There have been aberrations, but we have to work to remove these. This dialogue between judges and lawyers will give a new perspective. I am sure this programme will help in rebuilding the traditional and undivided Kashmir where all communities — Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs — used to live together,' he said. Asserting that lawyers and judges are like two wheels of the golden chariot of justice, CJI said, 'If you span one wheel, the efficacy of the entire chariot comes to a standstill. For this, lawyers and judges should work together to give justice to the people who live in the last village of this country. Unless people have the knowledge of their rights, the rights are of no use'. In a key policy suggestion, the CJI urged the Chief Justice of the J&K High Court to consider establishing a separate bench for the Union Territory of Ladakh, acknowledging the consistent demand raised by the Ladakh Bar. ===Ends===


Yemenat
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yemenat
The Houris of Paradise
I have never entered a place like this before… It is the circus—an aura of magnificence and splendor. The architectural design is dazzling, adorned with decorative touches and other elements that make you feel, amidst the spectacle, that you are at the very center of a grand universe. For the first time, I witnessed performances that resembled fantasy… What was once impossible became a reality before my eyes, what was distant became within reach, and the farthest was just a stone's throw away. It was the first time I saw the houris of paradise up close, without any signs saying 'Keep Out.' Astonishment engulfed me from the very first moment, holding me captive for two uninterrupted hours. Every detail here captivates you until the last moment… Here is God calling you instead of you calling Him… Here is God who loves beauty, and here, poetry holds its prominent place and presence: 'You are beautiful, and you love beauty; How is it, then, that your servants do not cherish it?' I beheld the houris of paradise with my own eyes, just as that dervish saw his Lord… God in His utmost beauty… In His presence gather His lovers and beloveds—Jalal Al Deen Al- Rumi and the kingdom of love, the miracle-worker Shams Al-Tabrizi, the Imam of Sufism Ahmed Ibn Alwan, the Sultan of Lovers Ibn Al-Farid, the pioneer of mysticism Al-Husayn Ibn Mansur Al-Hallaj, and the great Sheikh Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi, along with the righteous and reformers seeking God through love, life, and beauty. Beauty crowds this place, and you become a part of it… I felt as if I were in the very heart of this universe, the mother of miracles… My gaze wandered throughout the space… I sensed that the cosmos surrounded me from every direction… Oh God, what is this beauty!! Wonder resides here, and the captivating beauty calls you to invoke the Lord of the Worlds and His forgiveness. Here, God reveals Himself to me more beautifully than I ever imagined… Astonishment carries me on its wings, enveloping me in every direction… I blend into the scenes I behold, and I can no longer distinguish between the east and the west. Every point in this place could simultaneously be east and west… The compass here is broken and does not work… Only the compass of beauty seizes the viewer's consciousness, operating with efficiency and precision. A dome gathers the scattered directions like a cosmic lens… As I gaze intently at the houri of the skies flying through the space, I struggle to collect my senses, which seem to soar with her. I reach a state of ecstasy where I can no longer distinguish between the heights and depths of this place. My eyes fixate on the waist of another enchanting figure, and the rings spin around her, becoming grander than the rings of Saturn. I, along with my rapture, become one of her circles, circling around her waist. A dream and a knowledge that leaves me dizzy. Everything here is enchanting, harmonious, and captivating… The music, the movement, the lights, the makeup, and the stories painted by the acrobats… The sound effects complete each other… Everything sparkles with brilliance, magic, beauty, and lightness. Precision and artistry blend seamlessly with endless wonder. There are diverse circus performances, some dancing and thrilling, others acrobatic, juggling twenty eggs and stones. Young men and women, professionals at the peak of their craft, present what they have mastered and what they have creatively achieved. It's as if the Creator fashioned them from a more supple material than mere dust. Everybody here molds itself as desired, dazzling you and stealing away the independence you always cherish within. Bodies intertwine like a dough of resin, and your gaze wanders to the point of losing distinction between hair and the soles of feet. Youthful figures present scenes that drown you in astonishment… Bodies here function like spindles, others form like dough, and some fold like ropes, shaped and tied as their owners wish. In every performance, you witness a miracle, followed by a storm of warm applause, great joy, and soaring spirits. It's not just our hands clapping; our hearts and souls join in, spreading throughout the cosmos of this place. Young men and women, in the bloom of youth, perform mesmerizing acts that transform the hall of your heart into a beautiful exhibition space. A lightness unmatched by sight, flexibility that forms without restraint. The moving spots of light dance with the protagonist of the show here and there. Professionals to the point of genius, each delights you with their unique performance—houris soaring to the heights of the stage, returning safe and sound. They fly without wings, in a space too small for a bird. Gymnastic leaps, animal taming, walking the tightrope, and performing on it… Here, the impossible is present. The tamers enter the arena with the grace of a breeze and the surprise of astonishment, leading the beasts into the space, tamed and docile, as if fate has befriended them and brought them to the threshold of humanity. Each group enters according to their designated segment of the show. A performance for lions, another for tigers, a third for elephants, and many more… Each performs according to the meticulously scheduled program. The wonder and amazement follow one another, as does the focus… Here, not a second escapes you, and you don't regret losing it in vain. No regrets here, no biting of fingers… Regret only arises when you remember your wasted time, the many days that passed in vain without return or benefit.


India Today
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Tamannaah Bhatia dazzles in Rahul Mishra's Sufi-inspired couture collection
Actor Tamannaah Bhatia showcased designer Rahul Mishra's latest collection on Wednesday. She graced the ramp at the Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 in New Delhi on first appearance in the show was enchanting. She wore a hand-embroidered gown that appeared straight out of a fairy tale. It had intricate floral patterns and shimmering sequins that changed hues with every step. This ensemble set a magical tone for the evening, drawing admiration. Her presence on the runway was both commanding and 35-year-old returned to the runway for the second time wearing a striking lehenga embellished with sequins and detailed embroidery. The ensemble, though familiar in silhouette, was given a modern twist. It highlighted Bhatia's unique flair and the designer's attention to detail. Her confident walk and radiant outfit captured the essence of the collection's inspiration beautifully. Credit: Instagram/@fdciofficial Credit: Instagram/@fdciofficial The 'Becoming Love' collection features intricate craftsmanship and a rich narrative inspired by Sufism. It explores the seven stages of love, known as maqamat of ishq, with each piece reflecting a different phase."Traversing these seven stages, we gather hue and form along the way, moving ultimately towards a profound stillness," the show note the event was a significant moment for both Bhatia and the designer. Her graceful walk and the collection's thematic depth left a lasting impression on the audience, marking the showcase as a notable highlight of the couture week. The synergy between the designer and the actress was palpable, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone the film front, she will be seen in the upcoming film 'Vvan - Force of the Forest' alongside Sidharth Malhotra. She is also likely to star in 'No Entry 2' alongside Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh.- EndsMust Watch


Hindustan Times
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Tamannaah Bhatia in floral gown and lehenga at India Couture Week 2025 looks like a dream as Rahul Mishra's showstopper
Tamannaah Bhatia walked the ramp at the 8th edition of Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 for designer Rahul Mishra's Couture Fall 2025 collection, Becoming Love, on July 23. The collection not only explores the concept of seven stages of love in a sartorial context but also takes inspiration from Sufism. The actor walked the ramp twice in two of the outfits from the Becoming Love collection, one being a contemporary bodycon dress while the other was a lehenga. Let's take a closer look at both of these dresses and how they represent nature. The actor donned two looks at the Rahul Mishra show.(PC: Instagram) ALSO READ: Tamannaah Bhatia on body positivity: The fact that I look a certain way… Look 1 Tamannah turned into a fairy princess for the ramp, donning outfits that were floral and nature-inspired from head to toe. The body-hugging dress included a mermaid silhouette decorated with vivid flowers, leaves, and petals in dreamy pastel hues. A single shoulder strap added an asymmetrical touch, while her dewy, rosy makeup and wet-styled hair gave the look an ethereal edge, almost like a fairytale nymph come to life. The concept of love is evident through the blooming flowers on the iridescent fabric. Look 2 The second ensemble, a lehenga, echoed the same fantasy-inspired vibe The finely embroidered lehenga went a step beyond the floral theme and included a whole breathtaking scenery, with the lehenga skirt acting as a canvas for lake, lotuses, birds, and fields. The sheer white dupatta too featured nature-inspired motifs. She paired it with a staple desi accessory, jhumka, which complemented the floral lehenga with sheer elegance, making the look cohesive and exuding a traditional charm. While the mermaid silhouette gown sculpted her frame well, the lehenga flared out voluminously, regally. This depicted a sincere and beautiful contrast between contemporary and traditional styles, and both look magical, channeling surreal, fantasy nature vibes. In fact, both dresses explore nature in their own way. The bodycon dress channels nature through a blooming garden-inspired design, with flowers that look three-dimensional, while the sculpted silhouette and the unconventional, asymmetrical shoulder strap lend it a bit of fierceness, like a romantic and more demure side of a femme fatale style. On the other hand, the lehenga captures the sublime innocence of nature with its picturesque scenery of flora and fauna, the entire ecosystem together. This outfit definitely looks like a walking painting.