I can’t have birth certificate plastered on my forehead: Obama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama says he’s not concerned about rumours about his birthplace or faith blaming an online campaign of misinformation by his conservative enemies for perpetuating the myth that he’s a Muslim.

There’s “a network of misinformation that in a new media era can get churned out there constantly,” Obama said in an …. Original source  : I can’t have birth certificate plastered on my forehead: Obama.

New York imam says upcoming US elections linked to mosque protests

New York imam: Politics behind mosque opposition
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The imam spearheading a proposed Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York believes the fierce opposition is closely linked to the U.S. elections in November, according to comments published Monday.
“There is no doubt that the election … Original source on Gaea Times at : New York imam says upcoming US elections linked to mosque protests.

Obama says he isn’t worried about people questioning his religion

Obama says he isn’t worried about Muslim rumors
NEW ORLEANS – President Barack Obama said Sunday he isn’t worried about a recent poll showing that nearly one-fifth of Americans believe he is a Muslim. “The facts are the facts,” said Obama, who is a Christian. In an interview broadcast on “NBC Nightly News,” the … Read more : Obama says he isn’t worried about people questioning his religion.

Obama’s ex-pastor: People who wrongly think president is Muslim catering to political enemies

Wright: Obama Muslim myth believers ’sycophants’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Rev. Jeremiah Wright, President Barack Obama’s controversial former pastor, accused people who wrongly believe Obama is Muslim of catering to political enemies during a fiery speech Sunday in Arkansas.
In his sermon at New Millennium Church in Little Rock, Wright … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama’s ex-pastor: People who wrongly think president is Muslim catering to political enemies.

Palestinian President Abbas: Peace talks with Israel doomed if settlement building continues

Abbas: No peace talks with settlement building

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas warned Sunday that he will not back down from his threat to pull out of new peace talks with Israel if it resumes construction in West Bank settlements.
The negotiations are set to resume this week with a gala summit meeting in …. Source article  : Palestinian President Abbas: Peace talks with Israel doomed if settlement building continues.

Unpaid Saudi imam locks worshippers out

RIYADH – Worshippers who arrived to pray at a mosque in a remote area of central Saudi Arabia this week discovered they were locked out by the disgruntled imam because he had not been paid.

Al-Yaum newspaper reported Sunday that the imam, a Sudanese national, had been told a philanthropist would pay for his services as …. Source  : Unpaid Saudi imam locks worshippers out.

Obama’s former pastor calls people who wrongly believe president is Muslim ‘psychopaths’

Wright: Obama Muslim myth believers ‘psychopaths’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Rev. Jeremiah Wright, President Barack Obama’s controversial former pastor, referred to people who wrongly believe Obama is Muslim as “psychopaths” during a fiery sermon Sunday in Arkansas.
In his sermon at New Millennium Church in Little Rock, Wright criticized supporters of the Iraq war …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama’s former pastor calls people who wrongly believe president is Muslim ‘psychopaths’.

Federal agents probe fire at site of proposed Tenn. mosque that’s faced strong opposition

Fire at proposed Tenn. mosque site probed by feds

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Authorities are investigating a fire that damaged at least one construction vehicle at a Tennessee site where a new mosque is being built.
Federal investigators won’t say whether they believe the fire early Saturday was intentionally set at the suburban Nashville project, which has faced …. Original article  : Federal agents probe fire at site of proposed Tenn. mosque that’s faced strong opposition.

Prayers on banks of flooded Yamuna in Agra

AGRA – Hundreds of Yamuna lovers (bhakts) assembled at the ghats in this Taj city Sunday evening to worship and perform ‘aarti’ to the flooded river flowing majestically to the brim.

All along the river banks, people congregated to watch the rare spectacle of a river in spate. The river, in Agra, is just two inches …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prayers on banks of flooded Yamuna in Agra.

US Muslim leaders: Fallout from mosque furor will hurt integration, alienate young US Muslims

NYC mosque debate will shape American Islam

NEW YORK – Adnan Zulfiqar, a graduate student, former U.S. Senate aide and American-born son of Pakistani immigrants, will soon give the first khutbah, or sermon, of the fall semester at the University of Pennsylvania. His topic has presented itself in the daily headlines and blog posts over the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US Muslim leaders: Fallout from mosque furor will hurt integration, alienate young US Muslims.

Gadhafi gives lesson on Islam to young Italian women at start of 2-day visit to Rome

Gadhafi gives lesson on Islam to young Italians

ROME – Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi gave a lesson on Islam and copies of the Quran to a few hundred young Italian women Sunday as he arrived in Rome for his fourth visit in a year.
It was the second time the Libyan leader – who travels with female …. Source  : Gadhafi gives lesson on Islam to young Italian women at start of 2-day visit to Rome.

Kenya defends failure to arrest genocide-charged Sudanese president; cites national interest

Kenya: Sudan presidential visit ‘in our interest’

NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya’s government on Sunday defended its recent failure to arrest Sudan’s president on international charges of war crimes and genocide, citing Kenya’s strategic interest in the neighboring country.
Foreign Affairs Assistant Minister Richard Onyonka said that arresting President Omar al-Bashir during his recent visit to Kenya may … Read more : Kenya defends failure to arrest genocide-charged Sudanese president; cites national interest.

Bangladesh minister slammed for comments on Janmashtami

DHAKA – A call by Bangladesh Home Minister Sahara Khatun to the minority Hindu community to observe Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, “peacefully” and end it by 5 p.m. Wednesday in time for the end of “roza” has been criticised by the nation’s media.

The minister’s call has been termed “overtly discriminatory” in an editorial …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’

Developer behind NYC mosque talks about his vision

NEW YORK – The developer behind an Islamic cultural center and mosque planned near ground zero says it should be known as “a hub of coexistence.”
Sharif El-Gamal says it never occurred to him an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks would stir up so … Read more >>.

Federal employment commission files suit alleging discrimination against Muslims at Neb. plant

Feds: Muslims faced discrimination at Neb. plant

OMAHA, Neb. – Federal officials say a JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plant in Nebraska should provide Muslim employees with prayer time and not retaliate against workers who ask to pray.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit Monday on behalf of more than 80 Somali Muslims.
A message left … Read : Federal employment commission files suit alleging discrimination against Muslims at Neb. plant.

Mormon church officials in discussions with Chinese government

Mormon church officials talking with Chinese

SALT LAKE CITY – The Mormon church is in talks with the People’s Republic of China to improve relations for church members living in mainland China, church officials said in a statement Monday.
The discussions are aimed at ensuring that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mormon church officials in discussions with Chinese government.

APNewsBreak: Federal employment commission sues Swift over treatment of Muslims at Neb. plant

Swift sued over treatment of Muslims at Neb. plant

OMAHA, Neb. – Somali Muslim workers at a meatpacking plant in Grand Island were denied prayer time and faced harassment and even termination for asking to pray, according to a lawsuit filed Monday by the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The lawsuit filed on behalf on more than … Read : APNewsBreak: Federal employment commission sues Swift over treatment of Muslims at Neb. plant.

Developers behind proposed NYC Islamic cultural center, mosque near ground zero form nonprofit

Developers of planned NYC mosque form nonprofit

NEW YORK – The developers behind a proposed Islamic cultural center and mosque near ground zero have formed a nonprofit organization, an important step as they move forward with their fundraising efforts.
Meanwhile, New York City officials confirmed Monday the developers owe more than $200,000 in back taxes on the …. Source article  : Developers behind proposed NYC Islamic cultural center, mosque near ground zero form nonprofit.

Fire damages construction equipment at site of proposed mosque in Tennessee, raising worries

Fire at site of future Tenn. mosque troubles city

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – A suspicious fire that damaged construction equipment at the site of a future mosque in Tennessee has some local Muslims worried they are being dragged into the debate over a proposed Islamic community center near Manhattan’s ground zero.
Police say four pieces of equipment at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fire damages construction equipment at site of proposed mosque in Tennessee, raising worries.

Jury selection begins for man accused of sending money to revolutionaries

Trial beginning in Islamic charity tax case

EUGENE, Ore. – The co-founder of the American branch of a defunct Islamic charity is going on trial on charges he tried to send $150,000 to Muslim revolutionaries in Chechnya.
Jury selection began Monday morning in U.S. District court in Eugene for Pete Seda, also known as Pirouz Sedaghaty.
Seda was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jury selection begins for man accused of sending money to revolutionaries.

Bundesbank rejects banker’s remarks stereotyping Muslims, Jews; Merkel suggests he be let go

Germany’s central bank rejects racist comments

BERLIN – Germany’s central bank distanced itself Monday from a board member who stereotyped Muslims and Jews, saying his remarks were harmful and violated the Bundesbank’s code of conduct.
The comments by Thilo Sarrazin surrounding the launch of his new book Monday on immigration issues sparked outrage from German lawmakers and … Original article on : Bundesbank rejects banker’s remarks stereotyping Muslims, Jews; Merkel suggests he be let go.

Case against Chidambaram for ’saffron terror’ remark

AHMEDABAD – A godman from Gujarat’s Patan town Monday filed a case demanding criminal prosecution of union Home Minister P.Chidambaram for his remarks on “saffron terrorism” that have “defamed Hindu faith and saints”.

Swami Nijanand, who hails from Radhanpur in north Gujarat, filed the plea under sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Case against Chidambaram for ’saffron terror’ remark.

Germany’s central bank: board member’s remarks about Muslims, Jews are damaging

Bundesbank: top banker’s comments unacceptable

BERLIN – Germany’s central bank has distanced itself from remarks by a board member that stereotyped Muslims and Jews, saying the comments are harmful and violate its code of conduct.
But the Bundesbank says Monday it will meet with banker Thilo Sarrazin before deciding on any disciplinary measures.
Sarrazin has said that “all … Read more >>.

NYC community board head wants interfaith center to be part of proposed mosque project

NYC community board head wants interfaith center

NEW YORK – The chairwoman of the community board that voted for an Islamic center and mosque near ground zero said she believes adding an interfaith dimension would help unite people, saying a nondenominational chapel built at the Pentagon as part of a Sept. 11 memorial did just that.
Julie … Read more : NYC community board head wants interfaith center to be part of proposed mosque project.

Top German banker launches book about immigration after remarks called racist, anti-Semitic

Divisive German banker launches immigration book

BERLIN – A leading German banker whose remarks stereotyping Muslims and Jews have sparked outrage launched his new book on immigration issues Monday amid calls for his removal from the central bank’s board.
Chancellor Angela Merkel said the Bundesbank should dismiss its board member Thilo Sarrazin after he said that “all …. Source  : Top German banker launches book about immigration after remarks called racist, anti-Semitic.

Pro-Vatican politicians protest Gadhafi’s effort to convert Christians during Italy visit

Pro-Vatican politicians irked by Gadhafi in Rome

ROME – Premier Silvio Berlusconi threw a gala evening for his “friend” Moammar Gadhafi Monday, thanking him for strengthened ties between Tripoli and Rome and dismissing as behind the times those criticizing the Libyan leader for trying to convert Italians to Islam during the visit.
With Gadhafi wrapped in white … Read : Pro-Vatican politicians protest Gadhafi’s effort to convert Christians during Italy visit.

Dhoni seeks divine blessings in Ranchi

RANCHI – After his team’s loss in the tri-nation ODI series, Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni sought divine blessings in home city Monday.

Dhoni went to Deori temple near Ranchi with his wife Sakshi, father Pan Singh and other family members and prayed there for 15 minutes. He arrived in Ranchi from Sri Lanka Sunday. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hindus in Bangladesh celebrate Janmashtami

DHAKA – Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated Wednesday across Muslim-majority Bangladesh.

The day’s programmes include worship of Lord Krishna, puja, Gita Jagna, kirtan, discussions and peace processions, Star Online, the website of The Daily Star reported Wednesday.
The day is a public holiday in the country. Bangladesh has the third largest population …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations In Delhi

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The holy event of Krishna Janmashtami is being celebrated in Delhi just like the other parts of India. The birth anniversary of Lord Sri Krishna, a prominent deity in Indian mythology, has made the devout followers excited and happy. However, the government does not want any untoward incident to take …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations In Delhi.

PM greets nation on Janmashtami

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.

The prime minister said in a message that the festival of Janmashtami celebrates the life and eternal teachings of Lord Krishna – discipline, knowledge and selfless action.
“May the festival inspire …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chopper service for Himachal’s Manimahesh pilgrims

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh has allowed private heli-taxi operators to ferry pilgrims during the sacred Hindu pilgrimage Manimahesh in the remote areas of Chamba district, an official said here Wednesday.

“Two companies – Shiva Heli Service and Virat Heli Service – were allowed to operate heli-taxis this week. They will operate choppers till the end of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chopper service for Himachal’s Manimahesh pilgrims.

EEOC alleges Muslim Somali workers face harassment at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb.

Suits: Muslims harassed at JBS meatpacking plants

DENVER – Muslim Somali workers at two JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plants in Colorado and Nebraska face ongoing harassment because of their race and religion, including being prevented from getting a drink at one of the plants after fasting all day during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, …. Original source  : EEOC alleges Muslim Somali workers face harassment at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb..

EEOC lawsuits allege Muslim Somali workers harrassed at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb.

Suits: Muslims harrassed at JBS meatpacking plants

DENVER – Muslim Somali workers face ongoing mistreatment and harassment at two JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plants in Colorado and Nebraska, including being prevented from getting a drink at one of the plants after fasting all day during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, the Equal Employment Opportunity … Original source on Gaea Times at : EEOC lawsuits allege Muslim Somali workers harrassed at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb..

EEOC sues JBS over alleged harassment of Muslim workers at meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb.

EEOC sues JBS, says Muslim Somalis mistreated

DENVER – Federal officials say Muslim Somali workers were denied prayer time and faced harrassment and termination at two JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plants in Colorado and Nebraska.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission made the allegations in lawsuits filed late Monday in U.S. District Court in Denver and in …. Original source  : EEOC sues JBS over alleged harassment of Muslim workers at meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb..

Iraqi prime minister says his country is independent, sovereign as US ends combat operations

Iraq says its independent as US ends combat
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said the end of American combat operations Tuesday leaves his country independent and an equal to the United States and he assured his people their own security forces will protect them.
But the extent of U.S. …. Read the original article  : Iraqi prime minister says his country is independent, sovereign as US ends combat operations.

‘I would take them down,’ NY synagogue plot suspect says in tapes played for jury

NY synagogue plot suspect heard boasting on tape

NEW YORK – A down-and-out Muslim man, under pressure from a paid FBI informant, admitted he was eager to attack a New York synagogue to vent his rage against Jews and U.S. military might in the Middle East, according to tapes played Tuesday at his trial.
“I don’t care …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘I would take them down,’ NY synagogue plot suspect says in tapes played for jury.

Imam says fight over planned mosque near ground zero could shape future of Islam in America

NY Imam: Mosque fight about Muslim role in America

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The imam leading plans for an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York said Tuesday that the fight is over more than “a piece of real estate” and could shape the future of Muslim relations in … Read : Imam says fight over planned mosque near ground zero could shape future of Islam in America.

NYC mayor: Probing finances of proposed Islamic center, mosque would set ‘terrible precedent’

NYC mayor disapproves of probe of mosque financing

NEW YORK – New York’s mayor says an investigation by the state attorney general into the finances of a proposed Islamic center and mosque near ground zero would set “a terrible precedent.”
Mayor Michael Bloomberg says there’s no reason for the government to investigate donations to religious organizations.
Congressman Peter …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UAE sends 500 tonnes food aid to Somalia

Abu Dhabi, Aug 31 (IANS/WAM) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sent 500 tonnes of food to Somalia as part of its humanitarian assistance to the poverty-stricken country during the holy month of Ramadan.

Abdullah Mattar Al Mazrouie, UAE ambassador to Yemen, said more than 500 tonnes of food supplies were sent from Sana’a to save …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UAE sends 500 tonnes food aid to Somalia.

Defrocking process begun for Pa. priest accused of impregnating teen; DA says no charges

Pa. priest won’t face charges over videotaped sex

PHILADELPHIA – A Roman Catholic diocese in Pennsylvania has begun the process to defrock a priest whose dalliances with a teenage girl were videotaped by her parents. She later gave birth to a daughter.
But Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams says his office won’t press charges against …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Defrocking process begun for Pa. priest accused of impregnating teen; DA says no charges.

Security beefed up in temples ahead of Janmashtami

NEW DELHI – Security arrangements have been beefed up in and around the big temples and markets in the capital on the eve of Janmashtami – the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, which will be celebrated Sep 2 this year.

Thousands of devotees are expected to visit the temples around the capital on the eve … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Security beefed up in temples ahead of Janmashtami.

Pope grants interviews to German journalist for new book expected later this year

Pope grants interviews to journalist for new book

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI has granted a series of interviews to a German journalist that will form the basis of a new book expected later this year.
The Vatican said Tuesday that Benedict and journalist Peter Seewald spoke several times over the course of the final week …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pope grants interviews to German journalist for new book expected later this year.

Poll: 71 percent of New Yorkers want developers to move mosque, want AG to investigate funding

Poll: Most NYers want developers to move mosque

ALBANY, N.Y. – A new poll finds 71 percent of New Yorkers want the developers of an Islamic center and mosque near ground zero to voluntarily move the project.
The Quinnipiac (KWIHN’-uh-pee-ak) University poll released Tuesday finds the same amount of New Yorkers want Attorney General Andrew Cuomo to … Read : Poll: 71 percent of New Yorkers want developers to move mosque, want AG to investigate funding.

Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations Ahead

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- For the religious and devout Indians Krishna Janmashtami is a holy and auspicious occasion and this is something they look forward to. It is celebrated in various parts of the country by the followers of Lord Krishna with great enthusiasm and the occasion is associated with a number of religious rituals. …. Original article  : Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations Ahead.

Bangladesh minister slammed for comments on Janmashtami

DHAKA – A call by Bangladesh Home Minister Sahara Khatun to the minority Hindu community to observe Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, “peacefully” and end it by 5 p.m. Wednesday in time for the end of “roza” has been criticised by the nation’s media.

The minister’s call has been termed “overtly discriminatory” in an editorial …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’

Developer behind NYC mosque talks about his vision

NEW YORK – The developer behind an Islamic cultural center and mosque planned near ground zero says it should be known as “a hub of coexistence.”
Sharif El-Gamal says it never occurred to him an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks would stir up so …. Source article  : Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’.

Federal employment commission files suit alleging discrimination against Muslims at Neb. plant

Feds: Muslims faced discrimination at Neb. plant

OMAHA, Neb. – Federal officials say a JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plant in Nebraska should provide Muslim employees with prayer time and not retaliate against workers who ask to pray.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit Monday on behalf of more than 80 Somali Muslims.
A message left … Read : Federal employment commission files suit alleging discrimination against Muslims at Neb. plant.

India partners Nepal to spread Krishna’s voice

KATHMANDU – The Bhagvad Gita – containing Lord Krishna’s teachings and regarded as the essence of the Hindu religion and philosophy – is one of the most influential books in the world, but not much is known about its sequel, the Anugita.

Janmashtami, Lord Krishna’s birthday, is perhaps the perfect occasion to remember this less …. Original article  : India partners Nepal to spread Krishna’s voice.

Joyous mood sweeps Braj bhoomi on Janmashtami

MATHURA – Temples across Braj Mandal, a large swathe of area around Mathura, are bustling with joy and fervour, celebrating Janmashtami — the birthday of Lord Krishna. — who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The confusion created by two Janamashtmi dates notwithstanding, the festivities in Vrindavan and Mathura reached dizzy heights with more … Read more »».

Drum beats wake up Mumbai, Govindas seek pot of luck

MUMBAI – Mumbaikars woke up to beating of drums on Janmashtami Thursday as Govindas got together at their venues to strategise and form human pyramids to reach ‘dahi handis’ — or pots of curd and luck — suspended high.

With huge prize money at stake, Govindas in Panchpakhadi area of Thane aimed to break the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Drum beats wake up Mumbai, Govindas seek pot of luck.

Delhiites throng temples on Janmashtami

NEW DELHI – Men, women and children of all ages Thursday thronged temples that were decked up in bright coloured lights, decorations and flowers across Delhi for Janmashtami which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Despite the hot and humid weather, crowds were large.

The main Janmashtami celebrations in the city take place at the …. Read the original article  : Delhiites throng temples on Janmashtami.

Archaeologists in Jordan say they have unearthed a 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple

Jordan unearths 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple

AMMAN, Jordan – Archaeologists in Jordan have unearthed a 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple with a trove of figurines of ancient deities and circular clay vessels used for religious rituals, officials said Wednesday.
The head of the Jordanian Antiquities Department, Ziad al-Saad, said the sanctuary dates to the eighth century B.C. and …. Source  : Archaeologists in Jordan say they have unearthed a 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple.

NY Muslim groups decry hostile atmosphere, say bigotry shouldn’t impede Islamic institutions

NY Muslim groups decry hostile atmosphere
NEW YORK – It is “unethical, insensitive and inhumane” to oppose the planned mosque near ground zero, more than 50 leading Muslim organizations said Wednesday as they cast the intense debate as a symptom of religious intolerance in America.

The imam behind the project, meanwhile, was preparing to return to the … Read : NY Muslim groups decry hostile atmosphere, say bigotry shouldn’t impede Islamic institutions.

Mormon church: New genealogy database addresses Holocaust victim baptism concerns

Mormon church, Jewish leaders tackle proxy baptism

SALT LAKE CITY – The Mormon church says it has changed its genealogical database to better prevent the names of Jews killed in Nazi concentration camps from being submitted for posthumous baptism by proxy.
In a joint statement issued Wednesday, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a … Original article on : Mormon church: New genealogy database addresses Holocaust victim baptism concerns.

Manmohan Singh offers prayers at Tirupati temple

HYDERABAD – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday offered prayers at the famous Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh.

On a visit to the temple town to lay the foundation stone for two projects, he visited the temple atop Tirumala Hills.
Priests and officials of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the affairs of the …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh offers prayers at Tirupati temple.

Janmashtami Wishes and Scraps

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Janmashtami marks the birth of the savior Lord Krishna — an avatar of Hindu deity Vishnu.
This celebration is also known by the names — “Krishnashtami”,”Saatam Aatham” ,”Gokulashtami”, “Ashtami Rohini”, “Srikrishna Jayanti”, “Sree Jayanthi”. According to the Hindu calendar the event is dated on Ashtami tithi, the eighth day of the dark …. Source  : Janmashtami Wishes and Scraps.

Top 10 Janmashtami SMS 2010

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — India is a land of various cultures and festivals. Today on 1st September people all over are ready to celebrate the scared festival of Janmashtami. This festival marks the birthday of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna was born at Mathura where Janmashtami where this festival marks a very auspicious occasion.
The Hindus all … Original article on : Top 10 Janmashtami SMS 2010.

Iskon Celebrates Janmashtami 2010

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Janmashtami is a Hindu Festival that marks the birth of Lord Krishna. It is celebrated all across India with a great fervor. ISKON or International Society for Krishna Consciousness is celebrating Janmashtami today. This is celebrated on the 8th day of Bhadra Month.
Many followers of Lord Vishnu observes this day …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Converts to Islam should go public: Malaysian Muslim clergy

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Muslim religious leaders Wednesday supported the government’s proposal to get converts to Islam to publicly announce their religious status, saying this would avoid future family disputes.

They said the move, which would require converts to update their religious status in an automatic system, was necessary as Islam required them to declare their … Original article on : Converts to Islam should go public: Malaysian Muslim clergy.

Most New Yorkers don’t want Islamic centre near Ground Zero

NEW YORK – Two-thirds of New York City residents want a controversial Muslim community centre and mosque to be relocated farther away from the site of 9/11 terrorist attack, according to a New York Times poll.

The poll indicates that support for the 13-story complex at the Sep 11, 2001 ground zero site in Lower Manhattan, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Most New Yorkers don’t want Islamic centre near Ground Zero.

Ramadan TV show focuses on darker side of Muslim Brotherhood, provoking controversy in Egypt

Egypt TV show stirs debate over Muslim Brotherhood

CAIRO – The bearded young cleric yells at a young woman for lifting her traditional veil from her face while speaking to him on the street, and rants against Egyptians who adopt Western lifestyles and values. His followers beat up an opponent.
That is the image of the founder … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ramadan TV show focuses on darker side of Muslim Brotherhood, provoking controversy in Egypt.

13 years on, Mother Teresa still draws foreign tourists to Kolkata

KOLKATA – Be it soccer legend Diego Maradona, tennis star Martina Hingis or football World Cup hero Diego Forlan – they have all visited the plain two-storey Missionaries of Charity headquarters here that houses Mother Teresa’s grave. It’s a must-see for foreign tourists visiting eastern India even 13 years after her death.

Sep 5, 1997, was …. Original source  : 13 years on, Mother Teresa still draws foreign tourists to Kolkata.

Imam behind proposed NYC Islamic center due back in the US, says he will break silence soon

Imam for NYC Islamic center due to return to US

NEW YORK – The spiritual leader of a group of New Yorkers planning to build a $100 million Islamic center near the World Trade Center site will return to the U.S. this weekend from a State Department-sponsored tour of Persian Gulf nations.
Feisal Abdul Rauf has been …. Source article  : Imam behind proposed NYC Islamic center due back in the US, says he will break silence soon.

Farrakhan backs planned mosque near ground zero, says Muslims among those killed on Sept. 11

Farrakhan supports planned mosque near ground zero
WASHINGTON – Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan said Thursday an Islamic community center and mosque planned near ground zero should be built because Muslims were among those of many faiths who died in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
“Why then should a mosque, a cultural center, not … Read : Farrakhan backs planned mosque near ground zero, says Muslims among those killed on Sept. 11.

Chaplain killed in Afghanistan is 1st Army clergy killed in action since Vietnam

Army: Chaplain is 1st killed in action since ‘70

DENVER – A chaplain killed in Afghanistan this week was the first Army clergyman killed in action since the Vietnam War, the military said Thursday.
Capt. Dale Goetz of the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colo., was among five soldiers killed by an improvised bomb on Monday.
Before …. Source article  : Chaplain killed in Afghanistan is 1st Army clergy killed in action since Vietnam.

Hamas, though excluded from Mideast talks, is among most intractable issues

Hamas among intractable issues in Mideast talks

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – To relaunch Middle East peace talks on Thursday, the Israeli and Palestinian leaders and their American mediators quietly agreed to push aside the question of Hamas – the Islamic militant group that controls one of the two Palestinian territories and rejects negotiations.
But Hamas let …. Original source  : Hamas, though excluded from Mideast talks, is among most intractable issues.

Afghan President Karzai says govt will guarantee deposits at troubled Kabul Bank

Karzai: Afghan govt will back Kabul Bank
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan President Hamid Karzai reassured nervous customers at the troubled Kabul Bank on Thursday, saying every penny of their deposits would be guaranteed by the government.

Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Wednesday and Thursday after two top executives resigned amid … Original article on : Afghan President Karzai says govt will guarantee deposits at troubled Kabul Bank.

Afghan official: Afghan govt will guarantee deposits at troubled Kabul Bank

Afghan official: Afghan govt will back Kabul Bank

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan’s finance minister reassured nervous customers at the troubled Kabul Bank on Thursday, saying every penny of their deposits would be guaranteed by the government.
Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Wednesday and Thursday after two top executives resigned amid …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Main Paris mosque criticizes burger chain’s efforts to offer food tailored to Muslims

Paris mosque slams burger chain’s Muslim outreach

PARIS – Note to big companies hoping to tap into France’s lucrative but long-neglected Muslim consumer market: Pitfalls may await, and not only in the form of complaints from the far-right.
As of this week, 22 outlets of popular French fast food chain Quick are serving burgers it says respect …. Read the original article  : Main Paris mosque criticizes burger chain’s efforts to offer food tailored to Muslims.

Few signs of impending run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank after top executives resign

Few signs of impending run on Kabul Bank
KABUL, Afghanistan – Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Thursday, but there was little sign that questions surrounding its viability had sparked a major panic.

After the bank’s two top executives resigned amid allegations of mismanagement and unorthodox real estate loans, nervous customers … Read : Few signs of impending run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank after top executives resign.

Janmashtami celebrated with fervour in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Thousands of devotees Thursday gathered at temples across the capital to pay obeisance to Lord Krishna, one of the most revered gods of Hindus, on the occasion of Janmashtami.

The main Janmashtami celebrations in the city took place at the Lakshmi Narayan temple, better known as Birla Mandir, in New Delhi, … Read more : Janmashtami celebrated with fervour in Delhi.

Few signs of impending run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank as official seek to calm fears

Few signs of run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank

KABUL, Afghanistan – Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Thursday, but there was little sign that questions surrounding its viability had sparked a major panic.
Nervous customers flocked to Kabul Bank branches on Wednesday to take out their money following the resignation of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Court stops polls at Canada’s oldest Sikh temple

VANCOUVER – The cancellation of elections to North America’s oldest Sikh temple, the Ross Street Gurdwara, by a court this week has opened divisions between moderates and hardliners in the local Sikh community.

Vancouver and its surrounding areas in British Columbia province – which were the first places where Punjabi immigrants from India arrived in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Court stops polls at Canada’s oldest Sikh temple.

At Minnesota State Fair, Muslims hand out information in effort to repair tattered image

Muslims take to Minn. State Fair to repair image

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. – Despite the smells of fried dough and roasted meat wafting from the Minnesota State Fair, Salim and Zuleyha Ozonder were focused on the people who were leaving, not the food or festivities beckoning from across the street.
Each time a new wave of people …. Read the original article  : At Minnesota State Fair, Muslims hand out information in effort to repair tattered image.

Half of poll respondents oppose mosque near WTC; majority say people have right to build it

Poll: NYers conflicted on mosque near WTC
NEW YORK – A new poll finds New Yorkers are conflicted about the construction of a mosque near the World Trade Center site, with half of respondents opposed to the project and a majority saying people have the right to build an Islamic center near ground zero.

The New York …. Source article  : Half of poll respondents oppose mosque near WTC; majority say people have right to build it.

Iraqi Shiite bloc names new candidate for PM, further complicating govt. formation process

Shiite bloc names new candidate for Iraqi PM

BAGHDAD – A powerful Iranian-backed Shiite bloc put forward its own candidate for prime minister Friday, further complicating Iraq’s fractured political scene as the country stumbled into month six without a new government.
The March 7 parliamentary vote produced no clear winner, setting up a contentious fight between the …. Source article  : Iraqi Shiite bloc names new candidate for PM, further complicating govt. formation process.

Rs.100 crore Vivekananda education project approved

NEW DELHI – The government Friday gave in-principle approval to the Rs.100 crore Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project aimed at encouraging research on religion.

“The National Implementation Committee in a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has approved in principle Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project worth Rs.100 crore,” an official statement said.
The meeting …. Read the original article  : here.

Shiite cleric warns Iraqis security forces against working with remaining American troops

Shiite cleric warns Iraqis against working with US

BAGHDAD – A powerful Shiite cleric in Iraq has warned the country’s security forces against working with the remaining American troops in the country.
In a statement read at Friday prayers in mosques across Iraq, Muqtada al-Sadr extended support to Iraq’s police and soldiers, as long as they don’t …. Original article  : Shiite cleric warns Iraqis security forces against working with remaining American troops.

Only ancient wisdom can save India’s ’sacred’ animals

NEW DELHI – Many “sacred” animals of India – a concept most visible in Hindu religion – may become extinct one day unless the ancient respect for all creations returns.

“Respecting these sentiments would certainly improve the lives of domestic animals and the chances of survival of India’s endangered wildlife,” says “The Sacred Animals of India”, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Only ancient wisdom can save India’s ’sacred’ animals.

November to be Sikh Awareness Month in California

YUBA CITY – In a historic gesture for the 250,000-strong Sikh community in California, the state assembly has passed a resolution declaring November as ‘California Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month.’

During the month, Sikh cultural and social events will be held to highlight their contribution to California since there arrival in the state more than …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : November to be Sikh Awareness Month in California.

Saudi telecom shuts websites violating royal decree limiting fatwas to senior clerics

Saudi telecom shuts websites violating Fatwa edict

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia’s telecom regulator has shut down three websites that were violating a government decree limiting the issuance of religious edicts to the country’s most senior group of clerics, authorities said Saturday.
Saad al-Shihri, an official at the Saudi Communications and Information Technology Commission, said the … Read more >>.

US Muslims gird for tough 9/11 anniversary; ground zero uproar stokes fears of backlash

For US Muslims, a 9/11 anniversary like no other

NEW YORK – American Muslims are boosting security at mosques, seeking help from leaders of other faiths and airing ads underscoring their loyalty to the United States – all ahead of a 9/11 anniversary they fear could bring more trouble for their communities.
Their goal is not only … Read more : US Muslims gird for tough 9/11 anniversary; ground zero uproar stokes fears of backlash.

French diplomats face fallout abroad as bid to ban Islamic veils irks allies _ and tourists

French bid to ban veils worries allies, tourists

PARIS – Protests in Pakistan, al-Qaida warnings, skittish Muslim tourists: France’s plan to do away with burqa-style veils is already reverberating far beyond its borders.
A bill to outlaw face veils, aimed at upholding French republican values, is expected to win Senate approval this month. If it passes this …. Read the original article  : French diplomats face fallout abroad as bid to ban Islamic veils irks allies _ and tourists.

Egyptian democracy advocate says government behind Facebook photos of daughter in swimsuit

Egypt opposition leader claims official harassment

CAIRO – Egypt’s most prominent democracy advocate accused President Hosni Mubarak’s government Saturday of posting Facebook photos of his daughter in swimsuits and at events where alcohol was served in an attempt to discredit him.
Mohammed ElBaradei, the Nobel Peace Prize winner and former U.N. nuclear chief, was quoted in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egyptian democracy advocate says government behind Facebook photos of daughter in swimsuit.

Sweat, breath damaging Sistine Chapel’s frescoes

LONDON – The sweat and breath of over 4 million tourists who gape at the exquisite frescoes at the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City are damaging the Renaissance period works of art, a top official has warned.

The Sistine Chapel has between 15,000 and 20,000 visitors a day, the Daily Telegraph reported Friday.
The Sistine …. Read the original article  : Sweat, breath damaging Sistine Chapel’s frescoes.

Thousands of Indonesian Muslims protest US church’s plan to burn Quran on 9/11

Indonesian Muslims protest plan to burn Quran

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Thousands of Indonesian Muslims rallied outside the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta on Saturday to denounce an American church’s plan to mark the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks by burning copies of the Quran.
The Dove World Outreach Center in Gainesville, Florida, said it will burn the … Read : Thousands of Indonesian Muslims protest US church’s plan to burn Quran on 9/11.