Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted on Thursday that the recognition of Pali as a classical language honours the great heritage of Lord Buddha, as he took swipe at past Congress governments for its neglect of India's cultural legacy after Independence. Speaking at a programme on the occasion of International Abhidhamma Divas, Modi said while every nation associates its heritage with its identity, India was left far behind. Invaders tried to erase India's identity before its Independence, and those suffering from "slave mindset" did so afterwards, he said, adding that an ecosystem captured the country which took it in an direction opposite to its its heritage. He said his government's policies and programmes have been guided by the teachings of Lord Buddha, reiterating that the world plagued by instability and insecurity can find solution to its problems in his teachings. World can find solution not in "yuddh" (war) but in Buddha, and it should learn from his teachings to pave the way for peace, he said. Buddha is not only relevant but also a necessity, he said. Buddha, he said, resides in India's soul. "The country is now moving forward with self-respect, self-confidence, and self-pride, freeing itself from the inferiority complex. It is taking bold decisions due to this transformation. That's why Pali received the status of classical language, and also Marathi," he said. Modi also paid tributes to B R Ambedkar, an iconic figure who hailed from Dalit community and converted to Buddhism later, noting that his government has been developing places associated with him and Buddhism. Noting that Buddha's teachings were originally preserved in Pali, he said it is everyone's responsibility to preserve the language which is no longer in common usage. He also greeted people on the occasion of Sharad Purnima and Valmiki Jayanti on Thursday. Also Read: 'Everyone should try to follow ideals described by Adi Kavi': President Droupadi Murmu extends greetings on Valmiki Jayanti 2024 This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
17 October,2024 01:01 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIPresident Droupadi Murmu on Thursday extended her greetings on the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti.In a post on X, President Murmu said that everyone should try to follow the path of ideals described by Adi Kavi."Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti! The epic Ramayana composed by Adi Kavi Valmiki has gifted the human society with the divine story of Lord Shri Ram. A unique depiction of human ideals is found in Ramayana. Everyone should try to follow the path of ideals described by Adi Kavi. I bow to the sacred memory of Maharishi Valmiki!" the President said. महर्षि वाल्मीकि जयंती के अवसर पर सभी देशवासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं! आदिकवि वाल्मीकि द्वारा रचित रामायण महाकाव्य ने मानव समाज को प्रभु श्री राम की अलौकिक कथा का उपहार दिया है। रामायण में मानवीय आदर्शों का अनुपम चित्रण मिलता है। आदिकवि द्वारा वर्णित आदर्शों के मार्ग पर चलने का… — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 17, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi also wishes the countrymen and said on X, "Happy Valmiki Jayanti to all of you." आप सभी को वाल्मीकि जयंती की बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाएं। pic.twitter.com/EVb79dKHky — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 17, 2024 Valmiki Jayanti is a Hindu festival observed as the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, who wrote the great Hindu epic Ramayana.Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to X and said that the Ramayana written by Valmiki will continue to inspire various civilizations for ages."Best wishes to everyone on the birth anniversary of the first poet Maharishi Valmiki, who chronicled the life philosophy of Lord Shri Ram. Maharishi Valmiki composed the epic 'Ramayana', introducing the entire human race to the life of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram. This immortal book will continue to inspire various civilizations for ages in every moment and situation of life," Shah said. प्रभु श्रीराम के जीवन-दर्शन को लिपिबद्ध करने वाले आदिकवि महर्षि वाल्मीकि जी की जयंती की सभी को शुभकामनाएँ।महर्षि वाल्मीकि जी ने समूची मानव जाति को मर्यादा पुरुषोत्तम श्रीराम के जीवन से परिचित कराते हुए ‘रामायण’ महाकाव्य की रचना की। यह अमर ग्रंथ युगों-युगों तक विभिन्न सभ्यताओं… pic.twitter.com/HueY857lYs — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 17, 2024 Maharishi (great sage) Valmiki is hailed as the author of the oldest version of Ramayana -- the story of Lord Ram.His contributions to literature and spirituality have made him a beloved figure. He is revered as Adi Kavi the first poet of the Sanskrit language.According to the Hindu calendar, Valmiki Jayanti falls on the full moon day of the month of Ashwin, which corresponds to September-October in the Gregorian calendar.Valmiki Jayanti 2024 is being celebrated on October 17 i.e., on Thursday. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
17 October,2024 10:49 AM IST | Mumbai | ANI
“Curiosity, that crosses the line into someone's boundaries, becomes a form of harassment,” states Smita Shetty Kapoor, CEO and co-founder of Kelp. This is especially true for individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, who are often subjected to intrusive, deeply personal questions under the guise of curiosity. According to a 2023 LGBT+ Inclusion at Work report by Deloitte, nearly 83 per cent of LGBTQIA+ employees in India reported experiencing discrimination and 95 per cent experienced micro-aggressions in the workplace. While some members of the community may choose to answer questions to foster understanding, it is not their responsibility to explain or justify their gender identity or sexuality, particularly in professional settings. “Curiosity can easily turn harmful when it's used as a mask for invasive questioning. Asking someone about their body, sexual preferences, or intimate details of their life is inappropriate and crosses clear boundaries. This behaviour is not only unprofessional but also dehumanising, reducing an individual to a mere label or identity rather than seeing them as a whole person,” explains Kapoor. Sonica Aron, founder of Marching Sheep, says curiosity harassment manifests in different ways. She elaborates, “When people do not understand same sex relationships, or why are pronouns important, or what can different symptoms of disabilities be and how they affect personal lives, or professional lives. Inability to handle sensitive conversations can lead to curiosity harassment with significant negative consequence on individuals, team dynamics and overall organisational culture.” This Global Diversity Month, experts delve into what entails curiosity harassment, the line between curiosity and harassment, and how can organisations address the issue. Curiosity harassment, and creation of hostile work environments A study by William Institute, UCLA, found that 37 per cent of LGBTQIA+ employees experienced harassment at work due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. “Intrusive questions, teasing, and exclusionary behaviours not only create discomfort but often lead to deeper psychological effects. As a result, many LGBTQIA+ employees feel compelled to mask their true selves, suppressing their identities to avoid further scrutiny or mistreatment,” suggests Kapoor. “I consider myself fortunate in terms of curiosity harassment compared to many friends in the queer community who have endured severe workplace harassment. Aside from some unwarranted curiosity and jokes that I learned to ignore in my early career, I have heard colleagues make fun of queer individuals and openly express homophobic sentiments in my presence. Some have been forced to leave their jobs and accept positions that don’t align with their qualifications. It’s disheartening to see highly qualified individuals struggle to find basic decency in their workplaces after being onboarded,” observes Meenakshi Vuppuluri, lawyer and subject matter expert – PoSH and DEI, Kelp. Bisexual and lesbian women frequently encounter intrusive questions about their sexual experiences, and unfortunately, some find themselves objectified by colleagues in a fetishising manner. Vuppuluri recalls, “A highly educated lesbian friend of mine, an economist educated in the US, shared a disturbing experience where a male colleague claimed to be an ally, stating he would love to join her and her partner in bed if they ever needed assistance. This kind of objectification and disrespect underscores the need for a cultural shift in how we perceive and treat LGBTQIA+ individuals in the workplace.” Also Read: Creating an inclusive workplace: HR strategies for supporting LGBTQIA+ employees The expert further shares how sexuality and gender become a subject of scrutiny and gaze for all the others consume. “Trans individuals in my network often face invasive questions about their bodies, their decisions to transition, or their sexual partners. Such inquiries are not only inappropriate but also highlight a troubling trend where the affected individual often bears the consequences, losing their job rather than the harasser facing any repercussions,” highlights Vuppuluri. This kind of workplace dynamic fosters a hostile environment, where community members are forced to navigate constant microaggressions and invasive curiosity. “Over time, this not only undermines their ability to be authentic but also leads to heightened stress, emotional exhaustion, and burnout. The toll of such harassment extends beyond mental health, often manifesting in physical health issues as well, as the chronic strain from these experiences takes its toll on both mind and body. It is critical for organisations to ensure personal boundaries are respected and that conversations remain professional and appropriate to foster a truly inclusive workplace. If someone truly wants to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community, there are alternate and respectful ways to approach it without imposing on personal boundaries,” proposes Kapoor. The line between curiosity and harassment “Curiosity is natural and can lead to understanding, but when directed at a colleague’s personal life, especially in the workplace, it crosses a line. The key factor that distinguishes curiosity from harassment is relevance. If the information being sought has no professional relevance and pertains to private matters that an individual hasn’t volunteered, then asking such questions can be harmful and inappropriate. Even well-intended questions, when irrelevant, can make an employee feel uncomfortable or singled out. For example, asking someone when they decide to become gay,” shares Kapoor. She stresses the importance of recognising non-verbal cues, “Body language can reveal a lot about someone’s comfort level. If an employee seems uneasy, that discomfort should be a clear signal to stop. Consent is a major consideration here. Before diving into personal topics, it’s important to gauge whether the person is open to discussing such matters. Consent not only creates a respectful boundary but ensures the conversation remains in a safe space.” How can individuals recognise that their questions might be inappropriate or offensive? Kapoor advises, “Being sensitive to others' feelings is like building an inclusive and respectful workplace. A simple yet effective way to gauge whether a question might be intrusive is by placing yourself in the other person's shoes. Ask yourself, ‘Would I be comfortable answering this question?’ If the answer is no, it’s a sign that the question may be crossing a line.” Responding to curiosity harassment When asked how to respond to curiosity harassment, Vuppuluri recommends, “For a queer person who is being subjected to such curiosity harassment, I’d suggest that having strong boundaries and being assertive goes a long way. Stay calm because it is a professional setting, set a firm boundary and do not apologise for setting that boundary. Remember, it is not your job to educate anyone. Ask them if they’d like some online resources for general questions about the community. If people are being ignorant, assertively state that it is highly inappropriate that they are asking you such questions and you do not feel comfortable answering them. Tell the person asking unwanted questions that they are personal to you and you don’t want to respond. Please contact an HR professional and state your discomfort in handling those questions. Remember, people ask such questions to get a reaction out of you and the best response is no response.” Addressing curiosity harassment in organisations “At an individual level, people subjected to inappropriate questions may feel anxious, frustrated, and even violated by such actions. It impacts their sense of belonging, job satisfaction and overall well-being. At a team level, it can lead to isolation, groupism and a toxic environment. At an organisational level, it promotes a culture of non-disclosure, trust deficit and lack of inclusion. Therefore, addressing curiosity harassment becomes essential for HR teams as a part of building high performance and inclusive culture in organisations,” believes Sonica Aron, founder of Marching Sheep. Leadership should pave the way Highlighting the crucial role of individual behaviour and awareness, Aron poses, “Our organisations are a sub unit of the society. Our leaders, people managers and team members come from a society that is steeped in stereotypes and divisive norms. Hence systemic, holistic, continuous and consistent efforts are needed to nurture and sustain an inclusive culture in the workplace. This is not limited to being an HR key responsibility area (KRA) but every individual has a role to play. It starts with the leadership, to set an example of appropriate behaviours, showing commitment to an inclusive environment where curiosity harassment is not tolerated.” Awareness and education of employees Organisations should make sensitisation training a top priority for all staff. “The primary focus must be to explain what curiosity harassment is, as well as demonstrating what it feels like by including real-life scenarios, storytelling approach, or role-playing exercises in them. In this way, employees begin to recognise inappropriate behaviour in context, as well as how it affects colleagues. Integrating messaging around non-tolerance towards curiosity harassment in townhalls, review meetings, and team meetings in visual in-house communication like screen savers, posters, and virtual meeting background, and making it a part of monthly, quarterly and annual reporting and KRAs are some ways in which one can drive positive behaviour changes,” says Aron. Strict guidelines and policies To prevent curiosity harassment, it is important to pay close attention to the formulation of guidelines by HR departments. “Articulating and documenting communication guidelines, along the employee lifecycle, from entry to exit, at formal and informal touch points becomes a necessary part of increasing awareness on appropriate and inappropriate questions,” describes Aron. She emphasises the need for anti-harassment policies that explicitly address curiosity-driven intrusions which should be communicated to all employees to set clear boundaries and deterrents. There need to be governance processes in place to check and monitor instances of curiosity harassment, just like organisations have mechanisms for disciplinary actions and grievances. Implementation is key so that team members experience an inclusive culture in letter and spirit,” shares the expert. Addressing curiosity harassment in remote or hybrid work environments The rise of remote and hybrid work models has presented unique challenges for addressing workplace harassment, including curiosity harassment. It may entail remote-work-specific guidelines, among new strategies. Aron recommends, “With more distributed remote and hybrid workspaces, the management of curiosity harassment would probably imply new methodologies tailored to such arrangements. For example, organisations should adapt their training to include virtual activities on how such harassments can be established through video calls or messaging to pinpoint proper digital communication boundaries. Therefore, guidelines for communication should indicate what is allowed in the workplace for discussion during virtual meetings or team chats to ensure that private boundaries are respected.” She concludes by suggesting that team-building activities based on empathy and understanding can help bridge the cultural gaps created by physical distance and help institutionalize a positive culture of respect in virtual environments too.
17 October,2024 10:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalComedy genius Kumar is all set to perform in India for the electrifying 'KUMARSUTRA' three-city tour this November. While he starts in Mumbai on November 21 at Tata Theatre in the NCPA, he will then perform in Bengaluru on November 23 at Prestige; and Delhi on November 24 at Siri Fort.Coming back to his ancestral land, the show is produced and promoted in India by BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow, and the tickets are already live. With a career spanning over two decades, Kumar has proven to be a multi-talented performer, entertaining millions as a comedian, TV host, actor, dancer, director and author. For fans across the nation, Kumar promises an unforgettable series of performances that will redefine the comedy-in-concert experience. Celebrated across Asia, UK, Australia and the far west for cheeky razor-sharp wit, brash to-the-gut punchlines, cultural innuendos and unmatched humour, Kumar will unleash laughter-packed material celebrating Asia’s beloved comedian’s versatility and deep connection to music, culture, unity and cultural roots. Born in a South Indian Mudaliar family in Chennai and a Singaporean mother, the India shows are a nod to Kumar’s iconic talent and multi-faceted stand-up performances curated and showcased as high-energy Broadway-style theatrical performances to leave audiences in stitches. Featuring a carefully selected collection of timeless and uproarious stand-up routines, KUMARSUTRA promises a colourful tapestry of social commentary marked with personal anecdotes that captures the essence of Kumar’s comedic genius and infectious stand-up content. Known for a spontaneous ability to seamlessly blend humour with cultural insights, Kumar's performances reflect the diverse tapestry of South East Asian and Indian society, spiced with keen observations on everyday life, relationships and societal norms. Managed by LOL Asia and following outstanding successful international tours entertaining fans with 'sold out’ shows in London, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Bangkok, Manila and Malaysia, Kumar’s unparalleled showmanship and full-house auditoriums solidify the iconic stand-up comedian’s stature as an international performer par excellence. With highly successful international tours since 2016, fans in India can expect a symphony of rib-tickling laughter and flamboyant comedic routines. Expressing excitement about the up-coming India tour, Kumar states, "India has always been my inspiration and my muse. 'Kumarsutra' is a journey of love, passion and heritage and I can't wait to share it with my fans in India. I dream of travelling the world making people laugh. I'm so blessed to be able to do that and to meet fans from all over. I look forward coming to India!” Owen Roncon, Chief of Business - Live Events, BookMyShow, said, “We are thrilled to bring Kumar's debut show to India. Kumar’s dynamic performances are a testament to the evolving entertainment landscape, where comedy and live music converge to create truly immersive experiences. The Indian audience's growing appreciation for diverse and innovative acts makes us confident that they will enjoy Kumar's incredible talent. Stand-up comedy as a genre has seen a significant rise in popularity and international artists are increasingly recognising the potential of the Indian market. We believe the 'KUMARSUTRA’ tour will set a new benchmark for live entertainment in the country, offering a fresh and exhilarating blend of humour and artistry.” Kumar continues to be a global trailblazer for a unique, gifted ability to connect with audiences across diverse backgrounds through humour, fusing together the traditional and modern aspects of performing arts that have been perfected over the years. Fans in India can expect a show that has been delicately put together with the intention to dazzle and amaze audiences, transcending across age, gender and race; a testament to Kumar’s enduring legacy as a comedic icon.
16 October,2024 06:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMore than 500,000 copies of novels and short stories written by Nobel Prize laureate Han Kang have been sold at two major online bookstores in South Korea since her winning four days ago, the bookstore operators said on Sunday. According to Kyobo Book Centre and Yes24, about 530,000 copies of Kang's books had been sold as of 2 pm on Sunday, since the announcement of her win as the first South Korean to receive the Nobel Prize in literature last Thursday, Yonhap news agency reported. Kyobo sold about 260,000 copies between Thursday and this afternoon, and Yes24 sold 270,000 copies from Thursday until 2 p.m. on Sunday. Kang's poetry and novels swept the top 11 spots in the real-time bestseller rankings at both Kyobo and Yes24, with most of her books now being sold through preorders. A bookstore official said the supply shortage is expected to ease as more stock will arrive over the weekend and by early this week. Her 2014 novel, "Human Acts," followed by the award-winning "The Vegetarian" and her most recent work, "We Do Not Part," were the top three on the sales list, the report said. Kang won the Nobel Prize in literature on Thursday, becoming the first South Korean to win the big international award and blazing the trail for Korean literature's global recognition. Born in Gwangju in 1970, Kang made her literary debut in 1993 when five of her poems including "Winter of Seoul" were published by the Korean magazine "Literature and Society", while her first short story "The Scarlet Anchor", which came out a year later, won a literary contest. In 1995, she published her first book, "Love in Yeosu", a collection of stories, but it was "The Vegetarian" (originally published in Korean in 2007), about Yeong-hye, who rebels against her family and friends by eschewing meat, which brought her literary renown. The work also won the Man Booker International Prize in 2016, making Kang its first South Korean recipient. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
14 October,2024 01:32 PM IST | Seoul | IANSCats and dogs dominated an event called ‘Blessing of the Pets’ held on Sunday (October 13) morning at Our Lady of Health Church in Cavel, Kalbadevi. Held annually in October, Fr Joe D’Souza, parish priest, blessed pets brought in by owners and parishioners. He has been doing this at parishes across the city for years. He conducts the blessing at the parish he is at that particular year. The Blessing of the Pets is in honour of St Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals. A sweltering Sunday saw many owners arrive at the church located on the narrow and crowded St Viegas street to see that their animals receive a blessing. Cat cool Sajan N brought in a cat named Butterscotch. In fact, one could say, a small blessing itself, that this was a cat and not an ice cream, as it would have melted in no time in the October heat. Sajan said, “We named our Persian ginger Tabby Butterscotch after my son’s favourite ice cream flavour. It is our duty to take our pets where they cannot go themselves.” Owners and parishioners at Our Lady of Health Church Cavel, Kalbadevi. PIC/SHADAB KHAN A Beagle named ‘Sox’ was brought in by owners from Malad. The family said bringing a pet here “is a way of showing acceptance and inclusion. This is also a one-of-a-kind initiative. We want people to demonstrate compassion and kindness instead of simply shooing strays away”. Sox was quite the wise, senior citizen around. Then there was the Labrador Zoe, at seven years, five years younger than Sox, brought in by the Vaz family from Chembur. Bark hark By now, the church silence was broken with some sharp barks. The generally well-behaved animals were restless and straining at the leash. The arrival of Fr Joe D’Souza to begin the blessings was a calming presence. Fr D’Souza weaved between the animals easily, exchanging pleasantries with owners, recalling anecdotes and exchanges with some. Two Shih Tzus, Chico and Pepe, belonging to Breach Candy residents Raunaq and Henna Rajani, looked on as the owners said, “We really appreciate this initiative. Fortunately, we learnt about this blessing.” Special feeling Donna Rodrigues holding her French Bulldog stated, “This is so unique and moving in its own way.” Susan Caldeiro, who was at the church from Khar West, did not have a pet. She explained, “I used to have pets, but it is incredibly hard when they pass away. I now do not have a pet for this reason. Yet, as a dog lover, I have brought treats for all the animals here,” she stated, unwrapping the treats as the canines sniffed in excitement. Fr Joe D’Souza, parish priest, blessed pets. PIC/SHADAB KHAN Little water bowls were also set up on the ground, so one had to look sharp, lest one trip over these, though the animals would not have minded as to err is human and to forgive… canine or feline as the case is here. Stoic faith Sisters Jeanne and Veena Pinto’s cat ‘Baby’ was blind and suffered from epileptic fits. They said, “This blessing is so important for Baby. We hope she recovers,” and added, “The important thing is to have faith when one comes here, faith in the blessing to improve and heal,” they said. Another feline, Ginger, was at church, too, as Meghna Mascarenhas reminded, “We must realise that animals, too, have emotions and feelings.” We need them “as much, or perhaps more than they need us,” stated several owners, with Joel George pointing to his Boxer dog Akira, calling all pets “stress busters.” There was a flutter of excitement quite literally, as a pair of doves were also brought in in a basket, with many whispering excitedly ‘Doves… doves’. Moment silence for Ratan Tata Then Fr D’Souza told everybody to stand up to observe a minute’s silence for Ratan Tata, whose fondness for dogs is part of Ratan Tata lore. Fr D'Souza, in his address, spoke about a couple of crows who used to ‘visit’ him when he was in the Fort parish - “I would put a morsel of bread in their beaks.” He then asked owners whose pets have been sick to come forward to be blessed with a special prayer, gave blessings, and a sprinkle of holy water bringing an interesting morning to a close. The priest ended with a memorable sign-off as he said, “Remember, God spelt forward or backwards is still a man’s best friend,” putting the wow into the bow bows and meows.
14 October,2024 11:36 AM IST | Mumbai | Hemal AsharThe Odisha government is planning to distribute the 'Mahaprasad' at Puri's Jagannath temple to devotees free of cost, a state minister said on Sunday. The planned move could materialise soon, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan told reporters here. Harichandan said the free distribution of the 'Mahaprasad' will entail an additional expenditure of Rs 14-15 crore per year for the government. "We are trying to involve a few devotees who are financially sound to come forward and join hands in this initiative. Some of them have already agreed to support the move," he said. The implementation process is likely to start after the holy Odia 'Kartik' month (two months), the minister said. Similarly, special arrangements have been made for 'Habisyalis', the women who perform specific rituals during the 'Kartik' month, he said. "We have started preparing a design to streamline the public darshan (of the Jagannath temple). A dedicated system will be put in place so that devotees do not face any issue while visiting the 12th century shrine," Harichandan added. Also Read: Tirupati Laddu: 5 interesting facts to know about the prasadam offered at Tirumala This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 October,2024 04:49 PM IST | Puri | PTIWith Navratri festivities drawing to a close, quick commerce firm Zepto co-founder and CEO Aadit Palicha took to LinkedIn to inform that the platform sold over 1 lakh dandiya sticks during the season."What a day! Closing out Navratri 2024 with a grateful heart, seeing the beauty of India's diversity through our users, sellers, brands, and every Zeptonian, who made it all happen. From essentials to festive picks, thank you for making us part of India's celebrations across nine incredible days," he wrote on LinkedIn.Through graphics, he shared that the Mumbai-headquartered firm sold 1,00,000 plus dandiya sticks during the season.He further said sales for fasting-friendly chips, Kattu and Rajgira atta, grew significantly compared to last year's Navratri sales.Palicha also shared how Zepto's dark stores indulged in Navratri festivities across the country.In Coimbatore, Kochi, Chennai, and Bangalore, the stores celebrated Ayudha Puja, honouring tools and equipment. The Bhawanipore store in Kolkata embraced the lively essence of Durga Ashtami, while the Gota store in Ahmedabad kept the festive spirit alive with an energetic Garba event.
12 October,2024 03:58 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIEmpowering girls is not just a responsibility but our vision for a brighter future, Union Women and Child Development (WCD) Minister Annapurna Devi said on International Day of the Girl Child on Friday. The International Day of the Girl Child is celebrated annually on October 11 to empower and protect girls worldwide. The day also highlights the importance of gender equality, education, and opportunities for young girls. "Empowering our girls is not just a responsibility; it is our vision for a brighter future," Annapurna Devi said. "By recognising their rights and potential, we can pave the way for an equitable society where every girl thrives," she added. According to the latest National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS), more than one in five young women, or 23.3 per cent in India were married before the age of 18 in the country in 2019-21. However, the female child marriage rates have fallen from 26.8 per cent in NFHS-4 (2015-2016). The magnitude of this figure is especially concerning since India is currently estimated to have around 225 million girls below 19 years of age, as per the National Commission on Population. NFHS-5 also notes that nearly one in four married or partnered adolescent girls have experienced physical or sexual abuse. "Even before they are born, Indian girls face violence and discrimination, from female feticide to infant mortality, stigmas around sexual and reproductive health, teenage pregnancies, and child marriage," Population Foundation of India executive director Poonam Muttreja said. "Addressing these challenges requires a life-cycle approach. It is crucial that we dismantle regressive social norms, ensuring girls have equitable access to health services and opportunities throughout their lives," she added. Globally, as per the latest UNICEF report over 370 million women and girls -- or 1 in 8 -- have experienced sexual violence, including rape and assault, before the age of 18 However, when taking "non-contact" forms of abuse - such as online harassment or verbal assault, the number rises to 650 million, or 1 in 5, said the report. The staggering statistics underscore the critical need for urgent and comprehensive strategies to prevent and address the widespread violation of children's rights. “Recognising and upholding the rights and opportunities of girls is essential for building a more equitable future,” the Ministry said. It also listed a comprehensive range of schemes aimed at empowering girls, recognising their pivotal role in society. The initiatives include Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, among others which underscore efforts to promote gender equality and secure the future of girls by encouraging savings for education and marriage. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
12 October,2024 01:22 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
Navratri, Durga Puja, Kullu Dussehra, Nada Habba – names may be different but the spirit of this festival remains the same across states in India. This nine-day-long festival, which culminates with Vijaya Dashmi (Dussehra) on the tenth day is celebrated in diverse ways in the country, with each state having unique traditions and beliefs. Much like the nine forms of Goddess Durga, the celebrations take different shapes as we move from the North to the South, and from the West to the East. While Navratri in Gujarat and Maharashtra is characterised by Garba, states like West Bengal and Assam are known for unique rituals associated with worshipping Goddess Durga. In north India, these ten days are marked with enactments of Ram Leela and in South India, unique pujas and cultural activities are held. As this widely celebrated festival approaches, people from different states in India give a glimpse into local traditions and cultural aspects that shape their celebrations. Gujarat Navratri holds special significance in Gujarat. It is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in the state and people from different communities enthusiastically participate in the festivities. There are pandals all over the city, and puja and aarti are held every day. Mahek Alwani, a Surat resident, reveals, “In all major pandals in the city, puja and aarti are done latest by 9:30 PM, which is followed by Garba.” Garba and Dandiya, Gujarat’s folk dances, are the most distinguishing and special cultural activities that mark the celebrations in the state. While Garba has transcended boundaries and reached other states as well, the way it is performed here is different from other places, given it is the birthplace of the dance form. “Here in Surat, Garba doesn’t end before 4 or 5 in the morning. It starts at about 11-11:30 and goes on for hours. There is a professional competition between Garba groups, who perform at various pandals and events. Everyone strictly follows the colours of the nine days. Also, as compared to other places, in Gujarat, bigger steps and routines are given more importance, for example, 22-step Garba, 32-step Garba, 64-step Garba, which all come under dodhiya,” reveals Alwani. “The festivities even extend beyond the nine days. Everyone here plays Garba during Dussehra and Sharad Purnima as well, which comes a few days after Navratri. Surat remains almost shut during these nine days, or most working professionals get a half day,” she adds. All the khelaiyas (people who participate in Garba) are traditionally dressed in heavy ethnic outfits like mirror-work chaniya cholis, oxidised jewellery, etc. Ahmedabad remains a hotspot for these traditional outfits and accessories, and many people specifically visit the city for Navratri shopping. Alwani informs, “There’s a place called Law Garden in Ahmedabad, where chaniya cholis are sold all year round. And people do buy those even beyond Navratri months.” Apart from Garba and other public celebrations, people in Gujarat also keep a 9-day fast. “They either eat only one time a day or if they are eating twice, they eat farali items,” she says. The celebrations in different parts of Gujarat remain fairly similar, although each area might have unique traditions. Also Read: Navratri 2024: How Garba crosses boundaries and unites the world Maharashtra Gujarat’s neighbour Maharashtra also witnesses similar Navratri celebrations with public pandals and Garba nights. Cities like Mumbai have grand Garba celebrations with Gujarati music stalwarts like Falguni Pathak and Bhoomi Trivedi performing at these events. “In Mumbai, there are many Garba mandals as well as Durga Puja pandals that offer a glimpse of different traditions followed during this festival,” says city resident Isha. Ghatasthapna or Kalash Sthapna is one of the most significant rituals observed in the state at the beginning of Navratri. It is said to invoke Goddess Shakti as the festivities begin. Temples dedicated to the Goddess like the Saptashrungi Devi Temple, and Mumbadevi and Mahalaxmi Temples in Mumbai, witness lakhs of devotees during this period. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QSwrfHzylp0?si=qKjdkA32IQ3h4vZe" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe> West Bengal As we move from the East to the West, the festivities take the shape of Durga Puja in West Bengal. The celebrations begin on the sixth day and are marked by various unique traditions. Mehal Roy, who hails from West Bengal, shares, “Durga Puja has always been celebrated grandly at my place. My nani has a family house in rural Bengal and I remember some interesting things from my time there. There’s an old tradition in all nearby villages that includes the traditional dhak sounds. At a common time around the festivities, all villages go silent. Village A hits the dhak and the beat echoes to the next village. When they hear it, they play their first beat and this continues. Sharing her experience of Durga Puja growing up in Kolkata, she says, “Kolkata is usually quiet after 11:30-12:00. But during Durga Puja, everybody is out there, all night long. Even the public transportation functions till late.” Another distinctive feature of Durga Puja in West Bengal, Mehal believes, is the consumption of non-vegetarian food. “Puja is usually considered an auspicious day and people tend to eat vegetarian food, which is not the case for Durga Puja. Bengalis have dishes like Kosha Mangshu (mutton) and Mishti Pulao during the festival,” she states. In Bengal, Kola Bou, or banana tree, is considered to be Lord Ganesha’s wife and is transformed into a goddess during Durga Puja. A banana tree is placed alongside Maa Durga, Saraswati, Lakshmi, Ganesha and Kartik. Another interesting aspect related to the arrival of Goddess Durga in West Bengal is the blooming of Kash Phool. “There are a lot of Bangla songs that speak of Kash phool, a white flower that you find during Durga Puja. It grows specifically during that time. You'll also see references to it in Satyajit Ray movies. As Durga Puja approaches, the weather becomes quite pleasant with cotton-like clouds that are often compared to these flowers,” reveals Mehal. Like in other states, many public pandals are set up during this time and there are cultural programmes for which people start rehearsing months in advance. Assam The north-eastern state of Assam also celebrates Durga Puja on a grand scale as West Bengal. Nisha Smita, who was born and brought up in Assam, shares, “Here, Durga Puja starts from the sixth day of Navratri called Maha Shashthi. The idols are placed at the puja mandap with a small prayer ceremony called ‘Bel Baran’, a ritual that involves worshipping the Bel (wood apple) tree. The seventh, eighth and ninth days are called Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami respectively.” She adds, “Every day in the morning, we offer pushpanjali to goddess Durga and then prasad is distributed and bhog is served. Sandhya aarti happens in the evening.” The evening aarti turns into a cultural extravaganza as people participate in the 'Dhunuchi dance'. “People dance to the rhythmic beats of dhaak and bells, holding earthen pots. This impromptu dance is a prominent custom and one of the most awaited activities during the evening Durga aarti every day,” informs Smita. The tenth day – Vijaya Dashami – is when the Durga idols are immersed. “Jaise Maharashtra mein Ganpati visarjan hota hai, vaise hee Assam mein devi visarjan hota hai (The devi visarjan in Assam is the same as Ganpati visarjan in Maharashtra),” she remarks. Durga Puja is celebrated differently in different ‘Shakti Peethas' of Assam. According to some reports, some temples in the state have centuries-old rituals of animal sacrifices during Durga Puja. However, it has been abolished in several of these places. Himachal Pradesh When the 10-day-long festival ends in all other states in India, the celebrations begin in the northern states of Himachal Pradesh. Kullu Dussehra, which begins on Vijaya Dashmi, is a week-long festival held in Kullu, and one of the most popular cultural events in the state. Kanchan Rana, a Kullu resident, reveals, “The actual Dussehra is the first day of Kullu Dussehra. The festival lasts for a week and the sixth and seventh days are the most important.” “We first worship our kuldevi/kuldevta at our village. The raths with these devis and devtas then move to Kullu for the festival. More than 300 gods and goddesses of the Kullu region congregate at Dussehra grounds for the festival,” she adds. One of the most striking features of the festival is the rath yatra, with the rath of Raghunath ji being the main one. Divyakshi Gupta, a travel blogger and tour curator who has experienced the festival several times, shares, “It is believed that the idol of Raghunath ji was brought from Ayodhya itself. The celebrations of Dussehra in Kullu started in the 17th century during the reign of Raja Jagat Singh who sent a man called Damodar Das to get the Raghunath ji idol from Ayodhya. Since then. Lord Raghunathji became the main deity of Kullu Valley.” She adds, “One of the highlights of Kullu Dussehra is the ‘dev milan’ or meeting of the gods. All the local devis and devtas come and meet Raghunathji.” Rana reveals that the third and fourth days of the festival are usually dedicated to dev milan. “We worship Gau mata on the sixth day and the seventh day is dedicated to Hidimba mata,” she further states. Kullu Dussehra is a cultural extravaganza that attracts delegates and attendees from different states and countries. Uttar Pradesh Navratri celebrations in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab are characterised by fasting, pujas and cultural programmes. One of the most distinctive features of the festivities here is the ‘Kanya Puja’ or ‘Kanjak Puja’. It is a tradition that honours young girls as manifestations of Goddess Durga. “Nine kanyas and one boy, called langura, are invited, honoured and offered prasad that primarily consists of puri, black channa and halwa,” reveals Noida resident Sonika Agarwal. “Some people even wash their feet, apply tilak or offer money and other gifts,” she adds. Navratri and Dussehra in North India are also characterised by public enactment of Ramayana, commonly called ‘Ram Leela’. These performances take centre stage on all nine days, and the story culminates with Raavan dehen on Dussehra. Karnataka South Indian states celebrate Navratri in unique ways. Karnataka, especially, witnesses festivities on a grand scale. One of the most striking events of Navratri in Karnataka is the Mysore Dasara, also called Nada Habba. It is a 10-day festival that culminates on Vijaya Dashmi. The illuminated Mysore Palace during the Dasara celebrations draws tourists from all over the world. Vidya Hegde, whose ancestral roots lie in Karnataka, shares, “Dasara celebrations in Mysore feature processions carrying clay idols of Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha and Kartikeya accompanied by music and dance. Elephants are also a part of these grand processions.” Mangalore Dasara is another popular celebration in the state held at the Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple in Mangalore. Here, the idols of ‘Navadurgas’, along with Mahaganapathi and Sharada, are carried in processions. Flowers, bands, traditional dances like dollu kunitha and tiger dance, Yakshagana characters, etc., add colours and vibrancy to the processions. Tiger dance or tiger masque, a distinguishing feature of the festivities, is performed in honour of Goddess Durga whose favoured animal is said to be the tiger. “Some dress up as tigers and dance, also going house-to-house to showcase their talents. This folk dance is native to coastal Karnataka and is called Pili dance,” reveals Hegde. “All the Durga temples in south Kanara are heavily decorated during these days. Some people also dress up like Gods as per Hindu mythology,” she adds. Many families in Karnataka perform Durga Puja at their homes. Temples dedicated to the Goddess like Kudroli Temple in Mangalore, Uchila Mahalaxmi Temple and Kappu Marigudi Temple have large-scale celebrations. Navratri, Durga Puja and Dussehra are celebrated with great pomp and show across the country. The celebrations feature a diversity of traditions in different states, yet one thing remains common – the vibrancy of the festivities. Also Read: Navratri 2024: From peas jowar handvo to chana masala, follow these recipes to make delicious dishes during the festival
11 October,2024 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainThe North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja, one of Mumbai’s grandest and oldest star-studded Durga Puja celebration, is set to be held at a new venue this year. The event will now unfold at the SNDT Ground, Juhu, marking a significant shift from its long-standing home at Tulip Star, Juhu. The announcement was made at a press conference addressed and attended by Debu Mukherjee, Sharbani Mukherjee, Samrat Mukerji, Rego B, Jaan Kumar Sanu, Rema Lahiri, Kasturi Banerjjee and Mainak Chakraborty. The celebrations will take place from October 9 to 12. This year's North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja is expected to be a larger-than-life experience, drawing some of Bollywood’s biggest names. Devotees and fans can look forward to celebrating in the presence of their beloved celebrities, including Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, and many more, all making their mark on this prestigious occasion. “This momentous move is about honouring our rich heritage while embracing an even grander vision for the future,” said the members of the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee. “Our devotees can expect the same deep-rooted traditions, only now in a venue that allows for an even more lavish celebration. The heart of our Puja will remain the same, but the experience will be bigger, better, and more magnificent than ever,” they added. The Puja will feature a meticulously crafted idol of Maa Durga and spiritual rituals such as the maha aarti and pushpanjali. As goes the tradition at North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja, this year’s edition will also feature cultural performances and bhog, offering a feast of traditional Bengali flavours. The North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja was established in 1948 by Padmashri Sashadhar Mukerji and his wife Satirani Mukerji, making it one of the oldest Durga Puja celebrations in the city. Is is frequented by many stars every year. Durga Puja is a 10-day festival that coincides with Navratri, but the last five days are considered most significant. Although Durga Puja is primarily associated with West Bengal, it is also celebrated in other states like Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand and Maharashtra. Also Read: Durga Puja 2023: How Mumbai pandals prepare delectable Bengali cuisine for bhog
11 October,2024 01:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
