The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, in collaboration with the District Police Administration, has reported a record-breaking number of pilgrims visiting the sacred shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath during the 2024 Yatra season. According to an official statement, a remarkable total of 30,87,417 pilgrims visited the two holy Dhams this year. At Badrinath Dham, the pilgrimage season culminated on 17 November, with 11,170 devotees visiting the shrine on the final day alone. The total number of visitors to the shrine since the gates opened on 12 May reached 14,35,341. Kedarnath Dham welcomed 16,52,076 pilgrims between 10 May and 3 November. This figure includes 1,26,393 devotees who chose to travel to the shrine via helicopter, highlighting the increasing popularity of aerial pilgrimages. In addition to the two main Dhams, 1,83,722 pilgrims visited Shri Hemkunt Sahib and Lokpal Tirtha Shri Laxman Mandir before their gates closed for the season on 10 October. The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee acknowledged the vital support of the District Police Administration in ensuring the smooth management of this year’s Yatra. “These figures of the number of pilgrims for the year 2024 for Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath have been released by the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee with the cooperation of the District Police Administration,” the official statement read. On Sunday, large numbers of devotees gathered at Shri Badrinath Dham as the temple prepared to close its gates for the winter season at precisely 9:07 PM. Ahead of the closure, rituals were performed where Lord Badri Vishal was adorned with flowers, and the idols were prepared for the winter arrangements. Mata Laxmi was seated in the sanctum sanctorum after 8:00 PM, and the idols of Uddhav Ji and Kuber Ji were moved to Bamni. The temple, which had been decorated with 15 quintals of marigold flowers, remained open throughout the day for the final round of worship. Kedarnath Dham had already closed earlier on the occasion of Bhai Dooj with elaborate Vedic rituals, chants of "Om Namah Shivay" and "Jai Baba Kedar," and performances by the Indian Army band. Gangotri Dham’s gates were closed on 2 November, while Madmaheshwar Ji’s doors are scheduled to close on 20 November. The successful management of the Yatra reflects the joint efforts of the temple authorities and local administration, as per ANI. (With inputs from ANI)
18 November,2024 10:03 AM IST | DehradunAs Mumbai prepares to celebrate the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, on November 15, community leaders from three prominent Gurudwaras share insights into how these celebrations continue to embody Guru Nanak Dev ji’s timeless message on equality, and unity. “Let this be a time of unity, of sharing, remembering what Guru Nanak stood for. Spread love, foster unity, and always remember God,” says Gurmukh Singh, president of Gurudwara Sri Dasmesh Darbar at Thane. Langar: The selfless community meal Guru Nanak’s emphasis on langar arose as a reaction to the social injustices of his time, particularly the caste system, which dictated who could eat with whom. By establishing langar, he demonstrated that all people are equal before God. Today, gurudwaras worldwide offer langar daily, with the food prepared and served by volunteers. A defining aspect of Sikhism is the practice of langar, or the community kitchen. Langar was introduced by Guru Nanak as a means of promoting equality, where all, regardless of social status, religion, or gender, could share a meal together as equals. The concept of langar symbolises the idea that no one should go hungry and reinforces the principle of selfless service to others, a pillar of Sikh belief.At Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Darbar in Borivali, President Narendra Singh Mokha shared how langar on this day feeds thousands. “In a single day, nearly 5,000-10,000 people share langar. It’s humbling to see people from all walks of life sit and eat together.” Langar at this Gurudwara, like in many others, extends beyond feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul with a sense of shared community.Similarly, Dadar Gurudwara’s Manmohan Singh Rathi elaborates on the sheer scale of the langar during Guru Nanak Jayanti. “This year, we expect over 30,000 people to join us. The act of sitting together, rich or poor, Sikh or non-Sikh, reminds us that we’re all equal in the eyes of God,” he says. Rathi notes, “The purpose of Langar is to ensure that no one goes hungry and that all feel welcome.”Gurmukh Singh highlights the scale of their preparations, with volunteers gearing up to serve nearly 7,000 to 8,000 people. The Gurudwara will prepare an immense amount of food, including 400 kg of chapati, 130-140 kg of rice, and 200 kg of kheer. He explains, “Langar was a social revolution. It allowed people to sit together for food, breaking barriers.” Prabhat Pheri and Nagar Kirtan: Community on the move One of the beautiful traditions while celebrating Guru Nanak Jayanti is the Prabhat Pheri – early morning processions where devotees sing hymns and carry the divine message into the streets. Leading up to the festival, Prabhat Pheris invites local communities to join in these early dawn gatherings, walking and singing together, reminding people of the core values of equality and devotion.Nagar Kirtan is another integral part of these celebrations, where the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of Sikhism, is carried through the streets in a beautifully adorned palanquin. At the head of the procession are the Panj Pyare or “Five Beloved Ones,” representatives of courage and selflessness. The kirtans, or hymn recitals, fill the air, transforming ordinary streets into paths of reverence and unity.Gurmukh Singh, president of Sri Dasmesh Darbar in Thane, described their Prabhat Pheris as a joyful experience that unites the community. “For three days, we walk together, sing together, reminding ourselves and others of Guru Nanak’s teachings.”Rejecting distinctions based on religion, caste, or gender, Guru Nanak promoted a universal message of love, equality, and humility, which became the bedrock of Sikh philosophy. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, a village now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. His teachings were centered on three core principles: Naam Japna (remembering God’s name), Kirat Karni (earning an honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others, especially those in need). These teachings, which guide the faith, are celebrated on his birth anniversary through acts of devotion, compassion, and service. Mokha advises embracing Guru Nanak’s teachings in daily life, “Live happily, work hard, and help those in need. This is the true Sikh path of life.” Addressing the Khalistan agenda concerning Sikhs In recent times, certain issues like Khalistan have come to be associated with Sikhism, often casting a political shadow over its peaceful teachings. However, the community leaders were unanimous in their stance. “The true Sikhism of Guru Nanak has no political agenda,” says Gurmukh Singh. “Our focus is on service, love, and universal brotherhood.” Mokha echoes this sentiment, stating, “Sikhism’s goal is not division; it is inclusion and harmony.”Rathi from Dadar Gurudwara added, “This time is sacred, and I would urge everyone to look beyond political issues and focus on the peace and unity that Guru Nanak preached.”
16 November,2024 02:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Anisha ShrivastavaA large number of people gathered at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi to witness the Ganga Aarti as part of the ongoing five-day Ganga Mahotsav 2024. This vibrant annual festival, held from November 11 to November 15, celebrates the sacred River Ganges and its spiritual significance. The festival has become a major cultural event, attracting visitors from all over the world to experience the rich traditions of Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. The evening saw a remarkable performance by Kathak dancer Yasmin Singh and her team. Their dance piece was based on the 'Ardhanareshwar' form of Lord Shiva, symbolising the unity of Shiva and his consort Parvati. The performance highlighted the balance of masculine and feminine energies, with Singh sharing her excitement at performing in Varanasi again. "I first performed here in 2012 during 'Meri Ganga Mausam' and now, in 2024, I am thrilled to present my work once more. The theme focused on Shiva’s half form, which we presented through a bhajan, 'Om Hari Om,'" she told ANI. Singh and her team were visibly delighted to perform in front of such an enthusiastic audience. The celebration of the Ganga Aarti, accompanied by chants and hymns, filled the air with a deep sense of spirituality, adding to the overall joy of the event. The audience’s enthusiasm reflected the significance of the festival, and the performers expressed their gratitude for being part of such a grand occasion. As noted on the official Kashi portal, the Ganga Mahotsav is a grand cultural celebration that showcases classical music and dance, art exhibitions, boat races, and the iconic Ganga Aarti, a special worship ceremony. The Aarti, performed by priests with lamps and candles floating on the Ganges, creates a breathtaking visual spectacle that attracts hundreds of devotees and visitors every year. The event continues to honour the cultural heritage and spiritual significance of the sacred river, leaving an indelible mark on all those who attend. (With inputs from ANI)
13 November,2024 09:59 AM IST | VaranasiDevotees commenced the vibrant celebrations of Chhath Puja with traditional rituals and a sacred dip in the Ganga at Patliputra Ghat in Patna on the first day of the festival, known as 'Nahaye Khaye.' This grand festival, which holds immense significance in the folk faith, began on Tuesday and will continue for four days. Thousands of devotees flocked to Patliputra Ghat, located at Digha in Patna, to partake in the auspicious occasion. As part of the rituals, they took a holy bath in the river and offered 'aradh' (water offerings) to the Sun god, Surya Dev. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and reverence as families gathered to celebrate together. Speaking to ANI, several devotees expressed their excitement about the festival. One devotee stated, "We have arrived here at the ghat to take a bath in the holy water of River Ganga. After taking the bath, we will collect the sacred 'Ganga Jal' and prepare prasad. Today, we prepare arwa rice, chana dal, pumpkin vegetable, and pakodas as offerings." Another devotee, who travelled all the way from Jamshedpur in Jharkhand, shared, "We have come to Patna specifically to perform Chhath Puja. We eagerly wait for this day and have been observing the festival for the last three years. My entire family participates in the rituals, not seeking specific wishes but only blessings from Chhatti Maiya." Meanwhile, celebrations for the four-day Chhath Puja were also witnessed at the Kalindi Kunj Chhath Ghat in Delhi on Tuesday morning. The festival holds a special place in the hearts of Biharis and Jharkhandis, as it unites families in paying homage to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Chhath Puja is particularly noted for its high participation of women and is marked by fanfare. It serves as an occasion for many to take a break from daily household chores and refresh themselves. The festival is primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal, as well as by the diaspora from these regions. Spanning four days, Chhath Puja is one of the most significant and rigorous festivals in the Indian cultural calendar, involving strict rituals and fasting. It expresses gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth. This year, Chhath Puja will be celebrated from November 5 to 8.
05 November,2024 11:20 AM IST | PatnaIn a surprising incident at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, devotees were seen drinking water dripping from an elephant-shaped spout, believing it to be ‘Charan Amrit’ or holy water from the feet of Lord Krishna. A video capturing this scene has since gone viral, sparking discussions on social media about faith and scientific thinking. The footage shows numerous devotees cupping their hands or using small cups to collect and drink the water, which flowed from an elephant sculpture integrated into the temple’s architecture. However, this wasn’t holy water—it was, in fact, water from the temple’s air conditioning system. According to reports, the water was simply AC discharge that drained from tubes designed to resemble an elephant's mouth. Despite a temple visitor filming the scene and clarifying that the water was not ‘Charan Amrit’ but AC discharge, many devotees continued drinking it and even splashing it on their heads. The person filming was heard warning others, saying, “This is AC water, not water from Lord Krishna’s feet. The priests of this temple have confirmed this.” Still, several devotees smiled and continued, apparently unmoved by the clarification. It’s alarming how misinformation spreads when there’s a lack of basic education. People are consuming AC water, believing it to be holy “Charanamrit.” Education isn’t just about facts; it’s about critical thinking and awareness. pic.twitter.com/R6fHMeHqQW — Sayantani (@SayantaniINC) November 3, 2024 The video, which has been widely shared on social media, attracted a range of reactions. Many viewers commented on the incident, with some expressing disbelief at the actions of the devotees and others criticising the lack of critical thinking. One user on social media remarked, “A mind without scientific temper is the birthplace of myths and superstitions.” Another commented, “Why doesn’t anyone stop and think about what they’re doing? This shows a herd mentality.” The Liver Doc, a popular social media personality, also weighed in, warning followers not to drink AC water due to potential health risks, as such systems can harbour bacteria and fungi. This warning was echoed by others concerned about the health risks associated with drinking discharge from air conditioning systems. The incident also reminded many of a similar event in Mumbai in 2012. In that case, water was seen dripping from the feet of a statue of Jesus Christ, leading devotees to believe it was a miraculous event. However, an investigation by rationalist Sanal Edamaruku revealed that the water was coming from a clogged drainage pipe, not from any divine source. This latest event has once again highlighted the tension between faith and scientific understanding. Some social media users called for more awareness and critical thinking, while others defended the devotees, arguing that such expressions of faith are a personal matter. The viral video, with millions of views, has stirred a wider debate on social media, reminding us of the importance of balancing religious beliefs with practical awareness.
04 November,2024 08:47 PM IST | Vrindavan | Anisha ShrivastavaAs the spiritual city of Haridwar readies itself for the eighth edition of Ganga Utsav, preparations are underway at Chandi Ghat for a grand celebration on Monday. According to ANI, the event is organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) with the aim of promoting the conservation of the River Ganga, highlighting its cultural and spiritual importance, and raising public awareness about cleanliness. This year's Ganga Utsav, taking place on November 4, will see a vibrant inauguration led by Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil. The festival promises to celebrate the Ganga with great pomp, with several distinguished guests expected at the opening ceremony. A standout feature of this year's celebration, as per ANI, is the Women's River Rafting Campaign. Organised in collaboration with the Border Security Force (BSF), the campaign involves a team of 20 women who will journey from Devprayag to Ganga Sagar over a span of 50 days. This group aims to raise awareness about the Ganga's significance while promoting its conservation along the way. According to Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director General of the NMCG, this initiative marks a unique effort in which a women's team will actively engage with communities along the Ganga, spreading the message of the river's purity and continuous flow. Mital also emphasised other aspects of the Ganga Utsav, which include efforts to revive the native fish species, 'Mahseer,' in the river. According to ANI, the population of Mahseer had dwindled over the years, but with improvements in water quality, there are now plans to reintroduce them into the Ganga as part of the event. Mital noted, “This is an important step as we see the river's health improving. We will also be launching products and knowledge portals related to the River Ganga.” In addition to these initiatives, the event will feature various cultural performances, including a special appearance by actor Ashutosh Rana, who will perform as part of the celebrations. As per ANI, the festival will also showcase a spectacular Ganga Aarti and a sound and light show narrating the story of Haridwar. Cultural programmes showcasing the rich heritage of Uttarakhand, stalls for children, and an immersive virtual reality (VR) tunnel on the Ganga will add to the festival's attractions. The NMCG has also taken an initiative called the River City Alliances, aiming to promote cooperative efforts between cities along rivers to enhance their cleanliness and preservation efforts, as per ANI. Highlighting the objectives of Ganga Utsav 2024, Mital mentioned that the event is not only a celebration of the Ganga’s cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance but also a message to younger generations to appreciate and protect rivers, which have always held a sacred place in Indian culture. According to ANI, Ganga Utsav 2024 also seeks to recognise and appreciate the ongoing efforts of numerous unsung heroes working tirelessly for the conservation of rivers and the preservation of river animals. This year's celebration marks a milestone, as it is the first time the event is being held directly on the riverbank at Chandi Ghat. The event commemorates the anniversary of the Ganga River being designated as India's 'National River' and serves as a reminder of its heritage and role in Indian civilisation. The celebration will extend across 139 districts within the Ganga basin, with each state holding a primary event, coordinated by District Ganga Committees. Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, is set to inaugurate the central event in Haridwar, joined by key dignitaries, including Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Chaudhary, and Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Debashree Mukherjee. (With inputs from ANI)
04 November,2024 09:18 AM IST | UttarakhandThe portals of the revered Kedarnath and Yamunotri temples in Uttarakhand have been closed for the winter season, as per PTI. The ceremonial closure, marked by Vedic rituals, took place on Sunday, coinciding with the festival of Bhai Dooj, and was attended by a large number of devotees along with temple committee members and administrative officials. According to the temple committee, the Kedarnath Temple’s gates were shut at precisely 8:30 am, while the Yamunotri Temple closed its doors at 12:05 pm. The closures signify the end of the annual pilgrimage season, during which the temples are accessible to pilgrims from across India and abroad. Following the rituals, the idols of Lord Shiva, to whom Kedarnath Temple is dedicated, and Goddess Yamuna, the presiding deity of Yamunotri, were placed in beautifully adorned palanquins and ceremoniously transported to their respective winter residences. Lord Shiva's idol will remain at Ukhimath, while the idol of Goddess Yamuna will reside in Kharsali until the temples reopen next year, as per PTI. The Kedarnath Temple, situated at an elevation of over 11,000 feet in the Garhwal Himalayas, is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, or divine representations of Lord Shiva, found throughout India. The temple, a major pilgrimage site, attracts lakhs of devotees annually, who undertake the challenging journey to offer prayers amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape. Due to harsh winter conditions, Kedarnath remains closed when the area is covered in snow. More than 18,000 devotees gathered at Kedarnath on Sunday to witness the closure ceremony, which began with elaborate rituals as early as 4 am, according to Harish Gaur, the media in-charge for the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). BKTC Chairman Ajendra Ajay added that this season saw over 1.65 million (16.5 lakh) pilgrims visiting Kedarnath, a remarkable turnout that underscores the temple's spiritual significance. Similarly, the Yamunotri Dham, which is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites along with Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Badrinath, closed its doors at 12:05 pm during the auspicious Abhijit Muhurta, as per a temple committee representative. Yamunotri, dedicated to the Goddess Yamuna, draws thousands of devotees who visit the shrine to seek blessings. Gangotri, another Char Dham site, closed for the winter a day earlier, on Saturday, while Badrinath Temple is scheduled to close on November 17. These annual closures mark the transition to winter in the Himalayan region, when snowfall makes access to these high-altitude temples challenging and often perilous. During the off-season, caretakers at the winter abodes of the deities continue daily worship rituals, ensuring that the spiritual connection remains uninterrupted until the temples reopen in the spring. The Char Dham Yatra, which includes Kedarnath, Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Badrinath, is a significant pilgrimage journey for Hindus and an integral part of the state’s tourism, drawing millions of pilgrims each year. (With inputs from PTI)
03 November,2024 06:34 PM IST | DehradunThe recent discovery of two rare snake species in Dudhwa National Park (DNP) has delighted conservationists and researchers, highlighting the park’s diverse and ecologically significant wildlife. The Painted Keelback (Xenochrophis cerasogaster) and a brown vine snake (Ahaetulla prasina) were recorded within the park’s dense forest ecosystem, each carrying unique scientific importance, according to officials and wildlife experts.The Painted Keelback, previously documented over a century ago, was last observed in Uttar Pradesh in 1907 near Faizabad, making this sighting remarkable. Biologists Vipin Kapoor Sainy and Apoorv Gupta encountered the rare snake by Nakauva nullah in Dudhwa. Although the snake was found deceased, likely due to an accidental trampling by wild elephants, the discovery was still hailed as an exceptional addition to the park’s biodiversity records. “The recovery of this snake in Dudhwa after a gap of 117 years was truly extraordinary,” Sainy commented, reflecting on the significance of finding this non-venomous snake after such a prolonged absence from the region.In another exciting encounter several months prior, Sainy also observed a brown vine snake, a mildly venomous species with a distinctive brown morph not previously recorded in the park. During his fieldwork at the Bankey Tal in the Sonaripur range, while collecting swamp deer pellet samples, Sainy noticed a slender brown snake moving gracefully through nearby shrubs. “I photographed the snake, took it into my lap for closer observation, and later released it after completing the documentation,” he explained. His findings were later confirmed by WWF-India expert Rohit Ravi, who verified the snake as the brown morph of ‘Ahaetulla prasina,’ marking its first official record in Dudhwa.These discoveries have garnered praise from park officials and conservationists, emphasising the ecological value of Dudhwa’s varied landscape. “With a terrain hosting some of the most unique and lesser-known species, Dudhwa continues to affirm its position as a hotspot for new wildlife records, underscoring its ecological significance,” said Lalit Kumar Verma, Field Director of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR). Verma further highlighted the role of Ahaetulla prasina, calling it a "crucial component in the preservation of forest biodiversity," as it aids in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.Echoing this sentiment, Deputy Director Dr Rengaraju T underscored the richness of reptilian and amphibian diversity within Dudhwa. “The Painted Keelback’s rediscovery exemplifies how Dudhwa continuously reveals its hidden wonders and rich biodiversity,” Dr Rengaraju remarked, noting that each new species discovered offers valuable insight into the complex web of life within the park. He emphasised that such discoveries not only expand scientific knowledge but also stress the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining the park's unique ecosystem.According to PTI, these rare sightings are expected to encourage continued research and support conservation initiatives that protect the natural treasures of Dudhwa. As home to various species often overlooked, the park remains a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity of India, reminding researchers and visitors alike of its profound ecological significance. (With inputs from PTI)
03 November,2024 01:21 PM IST | Lakhimpur KheriIndira Gandhi was widely referred to as the "Iron Lady of India" as she was known for her strong leadership and controversial policies. She had been a significant figure in Indian politics for over two decades. Her tenure was marked by both progress and conflict, and her leadership style often drew both admiration and criticism. Indira Gandhi is remembered for her strong leadership and efforts to modernise India, her tenure was also marred by controversies for taking strong decisions including the declaration of a state of emergency from 1975 to 1977, during which civil liberties were curtailed. Indira Gandhi demonstrated a bold approach to governance, often making difficult decisions that showcased her determination and resilience. Indira Gandhi was known for her assertive foreign policy, including her role in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, which established India as a major regional power. On October 31, 1984, India faced a tragic and shocking event with the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Her assassination occurred at her residence in New Delhi. Indira Gandhi was shot by two of her bodyguards, Beant Singh and Satwant Singh. They opened fire on her as she was walking to her car after a morning meeting. The reports suggest that the attack was motivated by her decision to launch 'Operation Blue Star' earlier that year, which aimed to remove armed Sikh militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The operation led to heavy casualties and angered many. After being shot, Indira Gandhi was rushed to the hospital, but she succumbed to her injuries. The news of her death sent shockwaves throughout the nation, and people were left in disbelief. In the days following her assassination, widespread riots erupted, particularly targeting the Sikh community, leading to the deaths of thousands and significant property damage. The atmosphere in India became tense and chaotic as anger and grief swept through the streets. Indira Gandhi's funeral was held on November 3, 1984, and was attended by thousands of mourners, including political leaders from around the world. Her body was cremated with full state honors, and her son, Rajiv Gandhi, was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of India shortly thereafter.
30 October,2024 06:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs the festival of Diwali approaches, the Chief Priest of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Acharya Satyendra Das, expressed his delight, noting that this year’s Deepotsav is particularly special due to the recent consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla. He assured that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure devotees experience a smooth darshan. “This Deepotsav is special as it is being celebrated following the consecration of Ram Lalla. All preparations have been made for the darshan of Ram Lalla and the Deepotsav celebrations. We have ensured that none of the devotees face any issues during darshan. Today, all the ‘shirngars’ of Ram Lalla have been completed,” stated Acharya Satyendra Das. The Diwali festival will take place on 31st October. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has invited everyone to join in the grand festivities, which include a world record attempt to light over 2.5 million diyas in Ayodhya during Deepotsav. This event aims to set a Guinness World Record for the highest number of diyas lit simultaneously. In addition to the diya-lighting record, another attempt will take place during the festival aarti, where over 1,100 participants will join together for the largest aarti at Saryu Ghat. Deepotsav, a five-day celebration, marks Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, highlighting the cultural and spiritual importance of the city, which attracts millions of devotees and tourists. More than 30,000 volunteers will assist with the world record attempts, which will take place across 55 ghats in Ayodhya. Areas including New Ghat, Old Ghat, and Bhajan Sandhya will feature prominently in the celebrations. Key figures such as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Culture and Tourism Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are expected to attend the event. A 30-member team from the Guinness Book of World Records arrived on Tuesday to oversee the preparations for Deepotsav. Nischal Barot, the team leader, shared, “This is the seventh Deepotsav, but this year is unique as it is the first since the Ram Mandir has been built. This year, we aim to achieve two records: one for the largest number of people performing the Saryu Aarti and another for lighting 2.5 million diyas.” Moreover, a Shobha Yatra will take place today, featuring artists from around six countries and 16 Indian states, along with 18 tableaus showcasing Ayodhya's rich culture. The government has also launched a virtual initiative titled ‘Ek Diya Ram ke naam’ through the Divya Ayodhya app, further enhancing the festival’s appeal. Ayodhya has undergone significant transformations in recent years, with increased tourism and development. The excitement is evident as local businesses flourish with the influx of visitors for the festivities. (With inputs from ANI)
30 October,2024 11:01 AM IST | AyodhyaDiwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. In 2024, Diwali falls on 1st November, and it will bring families and communities together to celebrate joy, light, and prosperity. Diwali has deep cultural and spiritual significance for Hindus and is celebrated by millions worldwide. The festival symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. People look forward to this time of year, not only for its traditions but also for the warmth and happiness it brings. Significance of Diwali Diwali has roots in Hindu mythology and is associated with several legends. The most popular story is the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to their kingdom of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. According to the epic Ramayana, the people of Ayodhya lit diyas (oil lamps) to celebrate their king’s homecoming and to welcome them with joy. The festival also honours Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. For many, Diwali is a time to seek blessings, express gratitude, and start afresh. The festival is often seen as an opportunity to reflect on one’s journey, appreciate loved ones, and welcome new beginnings. Preparations and Traditions 1. Cleaning and Decorating the Home: Preparations for Diwali begin days in advance. Families clean their homes to create a welcoming atmosphere for Goddess Lakshmi, as it is believed she only enters clean, well-kept homes. Once clean, houses are decorated with rangolis (intricate designs made from coloured powders), fresh flowers, and beautiful lights. 2. Lighting Diyas and Fireworks: On Diwali night, diyas are placed around homes and in courtyards to dispel darkness and bring warmth and brightness. Fireworks are a big part of Diwali celebrations, and people light sparklers and burst firecrackers to mark the occasion. While fireworks are exciting, there has been a growing awareness about celebrating Diwali in an eco-friendly manner, with fewer firecrackers to reduce pollution. 3. Worship and Prayers: The Lakshmi Puja is an important ritual performed on Diwali. Families gather to pray for wealth, peace, and prosperity and offer sweets, fruits, and flowers to the goddess. The puja symbolises gratitude and the hope for blessings in the coming year. 4. Feasting and Sharing Sweets: Diwali is a time for feasting, and traditional sweets play a major role in the celebrations. Families prepare and exchange sweets like laddoos, barfis, and gulab jamuns with friends and neighbours. This sharing of sweets strengthens bonds and spreads happiness. 5. New Clothes and Gifts: Diwali is also an occasion to wear new clothes. People often dress in colourful traditional attire and exchange gifts as a gesture of goodwill. Gifts range from sweets and dried fruits to decorative items and gadgets. Eco-Friendly Diwali In recent years, many people have begun celebrating Diwali in an eco-friendly way. This includes using organic colours for rangolis, opting for earthen diyas instead of electric lights, and reducing the use of fireworks. An eco-friendly Diwali is a conscious effort to enjoy the festival while being mindful of the environment.
28 October,2024 03:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
