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News18
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Dating The Mahabharata: A Cinematic Triumph Of Science, History, And Sanatan Dharma
What sets this documentary apart is its celebration of Sanatan Dharma's intrinsic scientific temper In an era where historical narratives are often shaped by fragmented evidence or ideological agendas, Dating The Mahabharata, a documentary by Prachyam, stands as a beacon of intellectual rigour and cultural pride. I was glued to the screen for so long after a long time. Directed with meticulous precision by Capt Praveen Chaturvedi, the founder & CEO of Prachyam Studios, and rooted in the groundbreaking research of Nilesh Oak, this film, available on the Prachyam OTT platform, redefines how we perceive ancient Indian history. By anchoring the Mahabharata War to 5561 BCE through astronomical evidence, the documentary not only validates the antiquity of Hindu civilisation but also highlights the unparalleled scientific temper embedded in Sanatan Dharma. Here we explore the film's brilliance, its significance for modern audiences, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, and its broader implications for humanity's understanding of history. At the heart of Dating The Mahabharata lies Nilesh Oak's extraordinary research, which leverages over 300 astronomical references embedded in the Mahabharata text to pinpoint the war's date to 5561 BCE. Oak, a scholar with a background in engineering and a passion for ancient Indian texts, employs advanced astronomical software to map the positions of stars, planets, and celestial events described in the epic. The director meticulously presents this process, transforming complex scientific analysis into an accessible narrative that captivates both scholars and lay audiences. Oak's methodology is nothing short of revolutionary. By cross-referencing textual descriptions—such as the positions of Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and, in particular, deciphering the special mention by Maharishi Ved Vyasa of Arundhati being ahead of Vashistha, with modern astronomical tools, he constructs a timeline that aligns with the Mahabharata's internal chronology. The film highlights how these celestial markers, preserved in the text for millennia, serve as a historical GPS, guiding researchers to a precise date. This is not mere speculation but a scientific endeavour that challenges conventional historiography, which often dismisses ancient Indian texts as mythological. As Oak asserts in the film, 'All evidence points to 5561 BCE," dismissing competing dates between 4000 BCE and 400 CE as lacking textual support. The documentary's strength lies in its ability to present this evidence with clarity and conviction. Through stunning visualisations of ancient skies, 3D animated recreations of celestial events, and Oak's lucid explanations, viewers are transported to the era of the Mahabharata. The film underscores that this dating is not an isolated claim but a collaborative effort, with living researchers uniting to validate 5561 BCE as the war's year. This collective scholarly pursuit adds weight to the findings, making Dating The Mahabharata a landmark in historical research. What sets this documentary apart is its celebration of Sanatan Dharma's intrinsic scientific temper. Unlike Abrahamic texts, which often rely on faith-based narratives or singular sources, Hindu scriptures like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas offer a tapestry of interconnected texts rich with empirical data. The film argues persuasively that the Mahabharata's astronomical references—detailing planetary conjunctions, eclipses, and comets—are not poetic flourishes but deliberate historical records. This precision, revealed only through modern scientific tools, positions Hindu Dharma as a civilisation far ahead of its time. The documentary poses a provocative question: 'Do any Abrahamic texts provide such precise astronomical markers for great historical events?" The implied answer is a resounding no. While texts like the Bible or Quran offer moral and spiritual guidance, they lack the granular historical and scientific detail found in the Mahabharata. The film illustrates how multiple Hindu texts converge on a single date, reinforcing the Mahabharata's historicity. This convergence, coupled with archaeological hints like submerged cities near Dwarka, elevates Sanatan Dharma as a repository of knowledge that transcends human intellectual comprehension. For viewers, this revelation is both humbling and empowering. The film underscores that Hindu civilisation was not merely spiritual but deeply scientific, with its sages encoding cosmic observations in texts that modern technology is only now decoding. This synergy of ancient wisdom and innovative science makes the film Dating The Mahabharata a testament to the enduring relevance of Sanatan Dharma. Prachyam's production quality elevates Dating The Mahabharata to a cinematic masterpiece. The documentary blends scholarly rigour with visual artistry, using high-definition animations, evocative music, and crisp narration to create an immersive experience. The Prachyam OTT platform, dedicated to Indic content, is the perfect home for this film, offering seamless streaming and a user-friendly interface that ensures accessibility for global audiences. Launched in June 2025, the documentary has garnered widespread acclaim on X, with users hailing it as 'one of the most brilliant documentaries ever". The film's pacing is impeccable, balancing technical discussions with emotional resonance. It opens with a sweeping overview of the Mahabharata's cultural significance, setting the stage for Oak's research. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are drawn into a detective story, where each astronomical clue builds toward the climactic revelation of 5561 BCE. This approach ensures that the film is both authoritative and engaging, appealing to audiences of all ages. Prachyam OTT enhances the viewing experience by offering supplementary content, an Extended Version in 4K with Dolby Digital Sound, as well as behind-the-scenes features and discussion forums, fostering a community of learners. The platform's commitment to preserving and promoting Bharatiya Itihas makes it an ideal medium for Dating The Mahabharata, ensuring that this gem reaches those eager to explore their heritage. One of the documentary's most compelling achievements is its appeal to younger audiences, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. In an age where cultural narratives are often shaped by globalised media, Dating The Mahabharata serves as a clarion call for young Hindus to reconnect with their roots. The film's message is clear: they are inheritors of the greatest civilisation, one that harmonises spirituality, science, and history in ways unmatched by any other tradition. For young viewers, the documentary is both an intellectual awakening and a source of pride. It challenges the colonial lens that often relegates Indian history to myth, presenting instead a narrative of a sophisticated civilisation that documented its past with astronomical precision. The film's emphasis on modern technology—software that maps ancient skies—resonates with tech-savvy youth, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. By showcasing how Sanatan Dharma's truths are validated by science, it inspires confidence in Hindu identity. Moreover, Dating The Mahabharata is a call to action. It urges young Hindus to preserve and enrich their Dharma, not out of dogma but for the 'highest good of humanity". Legends like Nilesh Oak, whose dedication to truth shines through the film, serve as role models for a generation seeking purpose. Captain Praveen Chaturvedi's strong narration and voice have won many accolades. Ultimately, Dating The Mahabharata is more than a documentary; it is a movement. It rekindles pride in Hindu civilisation while challenging global historical narratives. By proving that the Mahabharata War—arguably the largest war ever fought—occurred in 5561 BCE, the film establishes India as a cradle of human history. It also underscores the resilience of Sanatan Dharma, whose truths have endured millennia and continue to inspire. top videos View all For every Hindu, especially the youth, this film is a must-watch. It offers a profound reason to live, cherish, and elevate Dharma, not as a relic of the past but as a living tradition that holds answers for the future. On Prachyam OTT, Dating The Mahabharata is a gem that sparkles with truth, inviting viewers to embark on a celestial quest for their heritage. As the stars of 5561 BCE still shine above, so does the wisdom of Sanatan Dharma, guiding humanity towards a deeper understanding of itself. Every Hindu must subscribe to Prachyam OTT, the first Hindu & truly Bharatiya OTT at Gopal Goswami, PhD, is a Researcher, Columnist & Social Worker. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. tags : documentary film history Mahabharata myth view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 21, 2025, 18:03 IST News opinion Movie Review | Dating The Mahabharata: A Cinematic Triumph Of Science, History, And Sanatan Dharma 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.
Mint
16-07-2025
- General
- Mint
Get these ceiling fans with lights for an added aesthetic in your room: Top 6 options for you to choose from
Ceiling fans with lights are redefining home comfort and style for the modern Indian household. These multi-functional fixtures blend cooling efficiency with smart lighting, offering a streamlined solution that saves both energy and space. Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens, ceiling fans with lights eliminate the need for separate lighting fixtures while enhancing decor with designs that range from classic to ultra-contemporary. Product Rating Price CLUB BOLLYWOOD®E26 Socket Fan Light 6 Fan Blade 30W Dimmable for Living Room Garage Bedroom White|Home & Garden | Lamps Lighting & Ceiling Fans | Ceiling Fans|1 Socket Fan Light, View Details Colorbot Stella 1200 mm BEE 5 Star Rated BLDC Ceiling Fans with Remote Control | High Speed | Power Saver | 100% Copper Winding | Reverse Mode | 2+2 Year Warranty (Arctic white) View Details Colorbot Stella Quad1200 mm BEE 5 Star Rated BLDC Ceiling Fans with Remote | 4 Blade | Designer Fans | High Speed | Power Saver | 100% Copper Winding | Noiseless | 2+2 Year Warranty (Urban Oak) View Details Orient Electric Uniquely Designed I Tome Pro 1200 mm BLDC Ceiling Fan with Remote | LED Indicator Lights, 5 Star Rated Energy Efficient Fan | High Air Delivery, 3 Years Warranty by Orient - White View Details Havells FAB BLDC ULED Ceiling Fan 1200mm, 350 RPM, Savings upto 65%, Reverse Rotation,4 Modes (Boost, Sleep, Breeze, Mop), Low Wattage 30W, Low Noise, Air Flow:225 CMM, 3 Year Warranty, Stone Grey View Details View More Whether you're renovating your home or building anew, they provide increased convenience, greater control, often with remote or app-based features, and a touch of elegance, making them an ideal choice for today's design-conscious homeowners. This compact fan light screws directly into any E26 socket, combining a dimmable LED light and adjustable ceiling fan in one unit. With 3 colour temperatures and 3 wind speeds, it's great for compact spaces like kitchens, bedrooms, or bathrooms. The included remote control makes it easy to switch settings from anywhere in the room. Its minimalist white design ensures it blends into any modern home decor. Socket E26 screw-in fitting Wind speeds 3 levels (low/medium/high) Lighting 3 colour modes (white, warm, neutral) Remote Included for full control This is a new product on Amazon with no user reviews yet. You want a fuss-free 2-in-1 lighting and ventilation solution for small rooms that doesn't require hard wiring or installation. Ideal for renters or DIY setups. This 5-star BLDC fan delivers powerful airflow (220 CMM) while consuming only 26W at full speed. The smart remote gives you 6 speed levels and reverse mode for winter use. With copper winding, sealed bearings, and modern design, it's a blend of performance and style. LED indicators add visual appeal, making it ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. Power usage 26W (BLDC motor) Features Reverse mode, 6-speed remote Quiet, durable, and stylish. Customers praise the airflow, LED indicator, and premium feel. Remote is responsive. Most rate it the best in its class. You want a sleek, low-power ceiling fan with remote features and strong performance that works well in any climate year-round. Designed for those who want aesthetics and functionality, this 4-blade BLDC fan features copper winding, a remote with reverse mode, and silent operation. The wood-finish Urban Oak design is a standout in any room. It offers high-speed airflow with low energy use, backed by a solid 2+2 year warranty. Motor BLDC with copper winding Blade count 4 (designer finish) Noise Ultra-silent operation Highly rated for quietness and style. Some users found speed inconsistent, but most are happy with the value, airflow, and remote. You want a designer fan that performs quietly, saves power, and enhances your room's visual appeal. With premium looks and LED indicator lights, the Orient i-Tome Pro combines form and function. It's energy-efficient, remote-controlled, and great for medium-sized rooms. Its 5-star rating ensures lower bills while maintaining strong airflow. LED indicators help you monitor speed levels at a glance. Motor BLDC with LED speed indicators Speed settings Remote-controlled Application Medium-sized rooms Sleek and energy-saving. Works well in medium rooms. Remote works fine for some, while others report issues with noise and build. You prefer a trusted brand and energy-saving features with a futuristic look and a solid warranty. A premium pick with advanced features, the Havells FAB BLDC fan offers 4 modes like Boost, Sleep, Breeze, and Mop, plus reverse rotation for year-round comfort. It's ultra-quiet, highly efficient (just 30W), and pushes 225 CMM airflow. The stylish grey finish makes it perfect for modern interiors. Modes 4 (Boost, Sleep, Breeze, Mop) Features Reverse mode, low noise New launch. No reviews yet. You're looking for a multi-mode ceiling fan that offers smart comfort, premium finish, and high energy efficiency in a single unit. This decorative fan with integrated lights adds elegance to any room. With 48-inch blades and a vintage ivory finish, it's ideal for traditional interiors. Though user feedback is mixed, the fan scores for aesthetics and smooth air circulation. Blade size 1200 mm (48 inch) Motor Standard with medium speed Warranty Standard manufacturer warranty Looks great, but several users report slow speed and poor lamp quality. Installation reviews are mixed. Not ideal for high expectations. You want an affordable, vintage-style ceiling fan with light to complement traditional décor, best for secondary rooms or occasional use. Go for a BLDC fan. It consumes less power, runs quieter, offers remote control, and lasts longer—ideal for saving on electricity without compromising comfort. Yes, if you need multi-functionality. A fan with integrated lighting saves space, adds style, and works well in bedrooms, studies, or compact areas needing both airflow and illumination. Check motor type (BLDC), remote features, power consumption, airflow (CMM), and warranty. Look for extra modes like reverse or sleep if you want more control over comfort. Yes, especially for year-round use. Reverse rotation circulates warm air in winters, improving heater efficiency. It's ideal for regions with seasonal changes or AC-heater setups. Best ceiling fans with light Motor Type Control Options Speed Settings CLUB BOLLYWOOD E26 Socket Fan Light Standard (likely AC) Remote 3-speed (Low/Medium/High) Colorbot Stella (Arctic White) BLDC IR Remote 6-speed + Reverse Colorbot Stella Quad (Urban Oak) BLDC IR Remote 6-speed + Reverse Orient I Tome Pro (White) BLDC Remote Multi-speed (not numerically specified) Havells FAB ULED (Stone Grey) BLDC Remote 4 preset modes (Boost, Sleep, Breeze, Mop) Crompton Uranus (Ivory) Standard (AC) Manual 3-speed (via wall regulator or pull cord) Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.
South Wales Guardian
30-06-2025
- South Wales Guardian
Vandals cause damage before memorial event for Neville Bowen
Hours before a bench was unveiled in honour of Neville Bowen, a 102-year-old Royal Naval DEMS gunner who passed away earlier this year, the portable toilet for the event at Betws Park was reportedly vandalised. The toilet was loaned for the guests to use on Sunday, June 22 but was found tipped over and broken into. Chairman of Military Veterans Club Cymru, Mr Owen Dobson with Neville Bowen. (Image: Owen Dobson) Chairman of Military Veterans Club Cymru, Mr Owen Dobson said: 'Whoever vandalised the toilet used a screwdriver to break the whole mechanism and then pushed it over with all the chemicals going everywhere. 'The main victim of the crime is TRJ, but we were very upset because a lot of work goes into our military events, and we wanted to accommodate the older people who attended. 'Apart from the toilet, a husband and wife donated a 20-year-old Oak tree to the park which was stolen and someone painted male genitalia on the footpath. 'It was very upsetting to have had criminal damages to the toilet. It was quite disappointing for those members of the local community who came together to make the event special.' The portable toilet was found tipped over. (Image: Military Veterans Club Cymru) Despite the vandalism, Mr Dobson believed the event was a huge success and the former police officer wants to give the alleged vandals a chance to come forward. He continued: 'I want to give them the opportunity to come and volunteer here at the club. I want them to come along and speak to our veterans, many of whom are ex Royal Navy, Army and RAF. Many attended the memorial event in Betws Park. (Image: File photo) 'We even host an indoor shooting session in Carmarthen once a month which they are welcome to join. In this way, we can turn a negative into a positive. 'Most of our veterans probably did silly things when they were younger and probably didn't realise the impact it would have. 'It's chance for a bit of payback while receiving some knowledge and wisdom. I try not to judge people. We are a community club. We are happy to provide some encouragement and for them to come and work with us.' Someone broke the toilet mechanism. (Image: Military Veterans Club Cymru) Dyfed-Powys Police were approached and confirmed they received reports of damage to a portable toilet in Betws Park, Ammanford, between 11.40am on June 20 and 9.30am on June 21. The incident was reported to have happened between 11.40am on June 20 and 9.30am on June 21. (Image: Military Veterans Club Cymru) A spokesperson added: 'The investigation has now closed. The victims have been informed of this decision, and they've been provided with safeguarding and crime prevention advice and informed that although the investigation is now closed, it can be re-opened if any new evidence comes to light or the suspects are identified.'
Daily Record
26-06-2025
- Daily Record
The Scottish luxury spa hotel near Glasgow you can book for better than half price
The spa offers treatments such as massages and facials. A spa hotel just outside of Glasgow is currently available to book at a discounted rate. The accommodation has been described by previous guests as "lovely" and "spacious". The Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel is a four-star hotel situated near East Kilbride, approximately 30 minutes out of Glasgow by car. It features a spa, leisure facilities, and a renowned restaurant. An overnight stay for two at the Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel can be booked for £99 through voucher website Wowcher, plus a £3.99 admin fee Usually, a one-night stay is priced at £257.20—resulting in a discount of 62 percent. The standard rooms at the hotel include flatscreen TVs, a sofa or armchair, and a safe for valuables. Each one also comes with a "luxury" en-suite bathroom with Elemis toiletries. Those staying at the Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel also have access to its spa and leisure facilities. These include a gym, swimming pool, steam room, sauna, and more. Meanwhile, there are also a range of spa treatments on offer. Among the services available are hot stone massages, deep tissue massages, facials, and nail treatments. All guests at the hotel also receive a bottle of wine to share upon arrival. Meanwhile, a full Scottish breakfast in the morning is included with the Wowcher deal as well. There is also the option to upgrade to include a £30 dining credit at the Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel's restaurant. Its a la carte menu features dishes such as battered North Sea haddock with chips, lasagne, chicken tikka masala, and a range of burgers. On travel website Tripadvisor, the hotel has received mostly positive feedback from guests. It has a rating of 3.7 out of five based on 2,129 reviews. One guest commented: "Lovely relaxing spa day—this included a massage and afternoon tea. Beth was fantastic and I absolutely felt the benefit afterwards. Spa staff helpful and friendly. "Enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea in the cocktail room which was delicious. The hotel is set in fantastic grounds—first time visiting and will definitely be back." Meanwhile, a slightly less positive review states: "Our room, The Oak, was very spacious. Great bathroom, bath and shower and supplied with the Elemis toiletries. "The room was just a little bit dated and tired. It did have a Nespresso coffee machine. Super comfy bed and soft pillows." Another happy visitor shared: "My boyfriend and I booked a spa day for two. Shauna was my masseuse and she was so professional! "She made me feel very comfortable and relaxed whilst informing me on all the products she was using! We definitely recommend and will be back soon!" When it comes to other accommodation options in the area, there are a number of nearby hotels to choose from. These include the four-star Torrance Hotel and five-star Crossbasket Castle. More information about the Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel deal can be found on the Wowcher website.
Axios
24-06-2025
- Business
- Axios
The Circle IPO's strangest winner
Oak Investment Partners is one of the biggest winners from the IPO of stablecoin issuer Circle, with shares worth in excess of $3 billion. It has a convicted crook to thank. Except that he might be dead. Catch up quick: Oak first backed Circle in 2014, as part of a $17 million Series B round. Overall, it appears to have invested less than $30 million — which means the current value more than repays the $2.5 billion fund out of which it invested. Zoom in: Oak's deal lead was Iftikar Ahmed, a general partner who'd come to the Connecticut-based firm more than a decade earlier after stints with Goldman Sachs and Fidelity. One year later, Ahmed was charged by the SEC with insider trading after being tipped off about a potential merger. But the big bombshell came soon after when Oak learned that Ahmed was robbing the firm itself — via a scheme whereby he directed Oak investments into accounts that he controlled. He also convinced his partners to invest in a company without disclosing that he already had a personal stake in the business. Oak fired Ahmed, who ultimately would face federal fraud and state embezzlement charges. Behind the scenes: Ahmed fled the country, even though the feds were in possession of his passport, leaving behind his wife and three kids. Eventually came word that Ahmed had been detained in India and was allegedly unable to return to the U.S., where he was nonetheless convicted. His wife, Shalini, who also had been a Goldman Sachs banker, has continued fighting in court to recover some of the family's frozen assets. In a brief filed last month, Shalini claims that she and the government were notified in January of Ifty's passing, and received a copy of the death certificate. She adds: "The government has questioned the validity of the certificate. Shalini understands there is an ongoing investigation." Zoom out: Oak would never raise another fund, with the Ahmed saga having wrecked LP confidence, although some of its partners would successfully launch a new firm called Oak HC/FT. Circle founder and CEO Jeremy Allaire declined to discuss how he was first introduced to Ahmed, with a company spokesperson citing IPO quiet period restrictions. The bottom line: Ifty Ahmed was a very good venture capitalist, albeit a corrupt one. In addition to Circle, his deals include Airespace (acquired by Cisco), GMarket (acquired by eBay), and Kayak (acquired by Priceline). What's always been confounding is why someone so wealthy would risk it all for just a bit more, particularly if he believed in the startups he was backing. The Circle deal ultimately might have paid him hundreds of millions of dollars. Now we'll never know. Maybe.
