First multimedia Sikh museum opens in Canada

MISSISSAUGA – Canada became the first country after India to open a unique Multimedia Sikh Museum in the Indian-dominated city of Mississauga on the outskirts of Toronto Sunday.

The museum was opened at Ontario Khalsa Darbar, North America’s biggest Sikh shrine, amid much fanfare by city mayor Hazel McCallion and museum creator Raghbir Bains.
Cutting …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kashmir part of India: Deoband clerics

LUCKNOW – Endorsing India’s stand on Kashmir, the influential Darul Uloom Deoband Islamic seminary Sunday declared the state was an integral part of the country.

“India is like a bouquet of different types of flowers. We just cannot think of allowing any one of the flowers to be separated,” renowned Islamic scholar Abdul Rahim Bastawi …. Read the original article  : here.

Demon king Ravana donates blood in Chandigarh!

CHANDIGARH – Demon king Ravana may be known for all the wrong reasons in Hindu mythology, but the character played by a Chandigarh man denotes a completely different meaning – the “Ravana” here voluntarily donates blood.

It is not the first time that the “Ravana” in Chandigarh donated blood. He did it for the 48th …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Family of 10 stable after fasting for 30 days at Ajmer

AJMER – The condition of 10 members of a family from Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh who were fasting for the last over 30 days at Sufi saint Hazrat Chisti’s dargah in Ajmer is stable, a police official said. Three members of this family died of starvation Monday at the dargah.

The family members are being … Original source on Gaea Times at : Family of 10 stable after fasting for 30 days at Ajmer.

Organisers vie to get celebrities at Durga Puja

KOLKATA – An unofficial competition to bring celebrities and politicians to the Durga Puja festivities has begun among the organisers in West Bengal as the devotees are all set to celebrate the biggest religious festival of the state starting Wednesday.

Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee and Kolkata Mayor Sovan Chatterjee are scheduled to inaugurate the ceremony …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Church gives Hindu funeral to its hospital doctor

THIRUVALLA – He was a Hindu and one of their longest serving doctors, so a Kerala church broke from tradition Tuesday to cremate him in the premises of a hospital run by it. The Bhagwad Gita and the Bible both found a place at his prayer service.

B. Brijesh Kumar Singh, 61, a native …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Church gives Hindu funeral to its hospital doctor.

Kerala’s church feud – over 100 years and continuing

PARUMALA – They pray to Jesus and believe in Christian values but the two factions of Kerala’s Malankara Syrian Church refuse to let their long-running feud die down. The latest controversy was over a proposal to construct a new church near here.

The feud between the Orthodox faction and the Jacobites is more than a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kerala’s church feud – over 100 years and continuing.

Ayodhya case: Hindu Mahasabha files caveat in Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha Monday filed a caveat in the Supreme Court to forestall any order on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit without giving it a hearing.

The move came against the backdrop of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board’s legal cell recommending that the Allahabad High Court verdict … Read more »»».

Three generations of Thackeray may share dais on Dussehra

MUMBAI – If all goes well, then three generations of Maharashtra’s numero uno political family — the Thackerays — may be seen together next Sunday, sharing the stage in the Shiv Sena’s annual Dussehra rally, a party official said Monday.

“Though it is too early to say anything, we hope that Balasaheb Thackeray might make …. Read the original article  : Three generations of Thackeray may share dais on Dussehra.

Shiv Sena gets permission for Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Monday allowed the Shiv Sena to hold its annual Dussehra rally at the Shivaji Park Sunday.

Granting the permission, though with certain conditions, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Mohit Shah and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud directed the organisers to follow noise pollution rules.
Earlier this year, hearing a public …. Source article  : Shiv Sena gets permission for Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park.

When marriage turns Ram into Ravan

KATHMANDU – Twenty years ago, Ganesh Jha of Indias Ayodhya town was known as Ram.

The 40-year-old is one of the major actors at the Saket Adarsha Ramlila Mandal (SARM) in Indias Uttar Pradesh state that, like hundreds of other mandals or drama groups in India, tours the subcontinent and even abroad during the festival …. Original source  : When marriage turns Ram into Ravan.

Durga Puja celebrations begin in West Bengal

KOLKATA – The people of West Bengal are set to welcome Goddess Durga Wednesday, the first day of the Durga Puja – the biggest festival in this part of the country.

Durga Puja, the five-day autumn festival beginning with Shashti and ending with Dussehra, is being held with great passion at colossal puja pandals (marquees), [..] Read the original article: here.

Durga Puja Celebration In Bollywood

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Durga Puja is knocking at the door and the festive mood seems to have affected the Bollywood stars as well who are planning to celebrate the auspicious festival in their own style. The hot actor John Abraham who has been dating bong beauty Bipasha Basu is likely to come to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Durga Puja Celebration In Bollywood.

Many Muslims against taking Ayodhya row to apex court

LUCKNOW – Many ordinary Muslims are against waging another prolonged legal battle in the Supreme Court over the Hindu-Muslim Ayodhya dispute although their religious leaders feel otherwise.

Though initially most Muslims did not appear to be favourably disposed towards the Sep 30 verdict of the Allahabad High Court on the much-debated Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid issue, …. Source article  : Many Muslims against taking Ayodhya row to apex court.

Muslims drifting towards BJP in Gujarat, says Muslim leader

RAJKOT – If newly elected corporator Babi Sama is to be believed, Muslims of Gujarat are shedding their antipathy to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The first Muslim woman to be elected on BJP ticket in the just held municipal corporation elections, Sama is convinced that there is a change of heart in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Muslims drifting towards BJP in Gujarat, says Muslim leader.

Mahasaptami Puja begins amid drum beats

KOLKATA – People thronged Durga Puja “pandals” here Thursday to offer prayers on Mahasaptami.

Women, clad in new sarees, were seen offering “pushpanjali” (special offerings to the goddess) amid the beats of “dhak” (local drums).
Durga Puja, the five-day autumn festival beginning with Shashti and ending with Dussehra, is being held with great passion … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mahasaptami Puja begins amid drum beats.

Rains may mar Durga Puja festivities in Kolkata

KOLKATA – City dwellers would face tough time during Durga Puja as there are chances of moderate rainfall during the festival, a weatherman predicted Wednesday.

Due to formation of a depression over the Bay of Bengal there are high chances of moderate rainfall in and around the city during Puja, said a meteorological department official.
… Read : Rains may mar Durga Puja festivities in Kolkata.

Nirmohi Akhara wants Kalam, Deoband in Ayodhya mediation

LUCKNOW – Nirmohi Akhara, a key party in the Ayodhya legal battle, wants former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, spiritual gurus Baba Ramdev and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as well as the leading Deoband Islamic seminary to help achieve a negotiated settlement.
“Now that the torch of peace and harmony has been lit in Ayodhya, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nirmohi Akhara wants Kalam, Deoband in Ayodhya mediation.

Obama to visit Golden Temple, college in Amritsar

AMRITSAR – When US President Barack Obama lands in India next month, his itinerary will include a visit to the Golden Temple here, the holiest Sikh shrine. This is being seen as a recognition of the importance and influence of the large Sikh community in the US.

Obama will arrive in this Sikh holy city … Original article on : Obama to visit Golden Temple, college in Amritsar.

Durga Puja reaches its peak with Mahashtami

KOLKATA – Thousands of devotees thronged Durga Puja pandals across the city Friday to participate in the ‘anjali’ or special prayers amid the beats of the traditional dhak drums on Mahashtami – the third and most important day of the puja.

Durga Puja, the five-day autumn festival that begins with Shashti and ends with Dussehra, … Read : Durga Puja reaches its peak with Mahashtami.

Durga Puja celebrations continue for second day

KOLKATA – Thousands of people from all parts of the state thronged Durga Puja “pandals” here Thursday to offer prayers on Mahasaptami – the second day of puja.

Durga Puja, the five-day autumn festival beginning with Shashti and ending with Dussehra, is being held with great passion at colossal puja pandals (marquees), where idols of …. Source  : Durga Puja celebrations continue for second day.

Pranab takes time out from busy schedule for Durga Puja

MEERATI – It was Pranab Mukherjee in a different role. Taking time off from his duties as India’s finance minister, Mukherjee was busy overseeing the arrangements for the traditional Durga Puja at his ancestral home in this village in West Bengal’s Birbhum district.

Mukherjee was Thursday morning (Mahasaptami) seen guiding the other priests to carry …. Source article  : Pranab takes time out from busy schedule for Durga Puja.

Saris, kurtas preferred wear during Durga Puja

KOLKATA – Tradition trumps modernity when it comes to fashion during the Durga Puja festivities in the city.

The traditional red-bordered white sari is the preferred attire for Bengali women during the five-day gala. Shopping for Puja wear, a hallowed tradition among Bengalis, begins weeks in advance. A new sari for each of the five … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Saris, kurtas preferred wear during Durga Puja.

Archbishop of Canterbury to lead memorial service in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams will lead a commemorative service at the Indian Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (ISPCK) in the capital Friday to mark 300 years of service to the Indian community by the society.

The society that owns several book shops across the country is engaged in several charity …. Original source  : Archbishop of Canterbury to lead memorial service in Delhi.

Tight security in Tripura for Durga Puja

AGARTALA – Security has been stepped up in Tripura on account of Durga Puja.

Over 12,000 security personnel and quick reaction teams (QRTs) besides bomb and dog squads have been deployed for the five-day festival that began Wednesday, Inspector General of Police K. Nagraj told reporters.
The Border Security Force has been asked to …. Source  : Tight security in Tripura for Durga Puja.

President Patil greets people on Durga Puja

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Thursday greeted the nation on the occasion of Durga Puja, saying the festival represents the “triumph of good over evil”.

In her message, Patil said: “Durga Puja represents the triumph of good over evil. May this joyous festival herald the spirit of peace, harmony and unity among our people …. Source article  : President Patil greets people on Durga Puja.

Tight security in Tripura for Durga Puja celebrations

AGARTALA – It’s festive season in the northeastern state of Tripura, with colourful and artistic marquees and prayers amid beating of drums as the state celebrates Durga Puja. On the occasion, the state government, combating insurgency, has heightened security to foil any subversive attempt.

“The Border Security Force (BSF) has also been asked to maintain …. Original source  : Tight security in Tripura for Durga Puja celebrations.

Muslim panel discusses Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – Should the Ayodhya dispute be taken to the Supreme Court or not? The All India Muslim Personal Law Board met here Saturday to discuss the issue.

The closed-door gathering of the 51-member executive began around 11 a.m. at the Darul-Uloom, Nawa-tul-Ulema, popularly known as Nadwa here.
Chaired by Maulana Rabe Hasan Nadwi, the …. Original source  : Muslim panel discusses Ayodhya verdict.

Indigenous tribe celebrates Durga Puja in northeast

NARTIANG – Durga Puja may be one of the biggest festivals of Hindus. But Pnars, one of the indigenous tribes of Meghalaya, too worship the goddess of power with equal fervour and devotion.

Hundreds of Pnar people – as Jaintias are known – Christians, believers of indigenous faith and tourists – throng the ancient temple …. Source  : Indigenous tribe celebrates Durga Puja in northeast.

Durga Puja fervour grips north Bengal

SILIGURI – Durga Puja festivities in north Bengal, while matching the rest of the state in fervour and enthusiasm, have their own distinctive touch.

The local Nepalis have their own rituals to worship the goddess. The puja is performed by priests known as Baun Bajes.
“The worship begins on Mahalaya (Oct 7) and continues till …. Source  : Durga Puja fervour grips north Bengal.

Where a professor is Ram, a student Sita in Ramlila

LUCKNOW – A motley bunch of students, teachers and professionals in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly district have a unique way of celebrating Ramlila. They perform it themselves.

At the Ramlila held at Subashnagar, an assistant professor plays Lord Rama, a student as Sita, and a history teacher is Hanuman.
The production staff matches the starcast step … Read more >>>.

Divine battle in Kullu Dussehra has chief minister stepping in

KULLU – It is a divine battle that has been going on for decades, involving the followers of two rival deities of Kullu Valley. This time even Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal has stepped in to urge for peace.

Dhumal has asked followers of the two rival deities – Shringa Rishi and Balu Nag – … Original source on Gaea Times at : Divine battle in Kullu Dussehra has chief minister stepping in.

Canterbury Archbishop hails Indian secularism

NEW DELHI – The Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams Friday said India has consistently tried to define a secularism that is not hostile to multiple religious identities.

“India, in declaring itself a secular state at independence, was making a clear option for a certain kind of public and political neutrality, acknowledging that to be a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Canterbury Archbishop for special status to Dalit Christians

NEW DELHI – The Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams Friday said he had raised the issue of granting Scheduled Castes (SC) status to the Dalit Christians of India during his meeting with the Indian leaders.

“There are concerns. Many of them (Christians) are Dalits or adivasis,” said Williams, who met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and … Read more »»».

Sea of humanity throngs Bengal streets on Mahashtami

KOLKATA – Thousands of devotees thronged Belur Math to witness ‘kumari puja’ (worship of a pre-pubescent girl) or flocked to Durga Puja pandals across West Bengal Friday to offer ‘anjali’ (special prayers) on Mahashtami – the third and most important day of the puja.

Durga Puja, the five-day autumn festival that begins with Shashti and … Read more »».

Festivals will be as peaceful as CWG, assert Delhi Police

NEW DELHI – With the conclusion of Commonwealth Games Oct 14, the focus of Delhi Police has now shifted to ensuring an equally peaceful Durga Puja and Ramlila festivities.

Over one lakh security personnel, drawn from Delhi Police and paramilitary forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), were deployed in the capital for the …. Original article  : Festivals will be as peaceful as CWG, assert Delhi Police.

Thousands of Kerala kids initiated into world of letters

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Thousands of tiny tots across Kerala were initiated into the world of letters Sunday at temples, institutions and even churches on Vijayadashami day, celebrated as Dussehra in north India.

During the ceremony, known as ‘Vidyarambham’, academics, litterateurs, teachers and politicians hold the children’s hands and help them write Malayalam letters on a plate … Read more : Thousands of Kerala kids initiated into world of letters.

Durga Puja fever soars in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Thousands of people poured onto the streets of Kolkata, which looked magnificent bathed in bright lights and twinklers, as the Durga Puja celebrations reached a feverish pitch across West Bengal Saturday, day four of the festivities.

Almost all big-ticket puja pandals drew large crowds, which only increased as the day progressed …. Original source  : Durga Puja fever soars in West Bengal.

Muslim panel to appeal Ayodhya verdict but open to compromise (Third Lead)

LUCKNOW – The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) Saturday said it had decided to appeal in the Supreme Court against the Ayodhya verdict given by the Allahabad High Court last month, but clarified it was not opposed to an out-of-court compromise – though with certain conditions.

“We have no objection to considering any …. Read the original article  : Muslim panel to appeal Ayodhya verdict but open to compromise (Third Lead).

Where arms and not Durga idols are worshipped

RANCHI – Arms like AK-47 and Insas and not goddess Durga idols are worshipped at the Jharkhand Armed Police ground here during Navratri – an auspicious period for the Hindus.

There is a myth that idol worship in the ground invited the wrath of Goddess Durga.
Kalash Sthapana is done on the first day …. Read the original article  : Where arms and not Durga idols are worshipped.

Muslim panel to appeal against Ayodhya verdict (Second Lead)

LUCKNOW – The All India Muslim Personal Law Board Saturday said it had decided to appeal in the Supreme Court against the Ayodhya verdict given by a three-judge bench of the Allahabad High Court last month.

The decision was taken at a closed-door gathering of the 51-member executive held at the Darul-Uloom, Nawa-tul-Ulema, popularly known …. Source  : Muslim panel to appeal against Ayodhya verdict (Second Lead).

Muslim panel to appeal against Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – The All India Muslim Personal Law Board Saturday resolved to appeal in the Supreme Court against the Sep 30 Ayodhya verdict given by a three-judge bench of the Allahabad High Court, Board sources here said.

No consensus could be obtained on going for an amicable out-of-court settlement even though some members of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Labour of love for capital’s idol makers

NEW DELHI – They take long leaves from their jobs, set up shacks, at times travelling thousands of miles, passionate and devoted to what they do. Meet Delhi’s Durga Puja idol makers.

The ‘kumars’ as they are called throng the capital every year before the five-day autumn festival when beautiful idols of … Read : Labour of love for capital’s idol makers.

West Bengal celebrates Mahanavami

KOLKATA – Thousands of people poured onto the streets of Kolkata, community feasts were organised and celebrations were held across West Bengal Saturday on Mahanavami, the fourth day of the Durga Puja festivities.

Long queues were seen at several big-ticket puja pandals since early morning. Those who went for a whole night party on the …. Original source  : West Bengal celebrates Mahanavami.

Grand worship of goddess Durga in Maoist belt

KOLKATA – After an year’s hiatus, Durga Puja is again being celebrated with traditional pomp in the Maoist-affected areas of West Bengal’s West Midnapore district with large crowds seen at the marquees.

The frequent Maoist attacks and operations conducted by the joint forces to flush out the leftwing rebels from their hideouts had forced many …. Original article  : Grand worship of goddess Durga in Maoist belt.

Mysore decked up for Sunday’s ‘Jamboo Savari’

MYSORE – This city of palaces, culture capital of Karnataka and home to Brindavan Gardens is decked up for the culmination of 10-day Dasara festival with Jamboo Savari (elephant procession) Sunday.

The procession of 12 caparisoned elephants will be led by the majestic tusker Balarama, which stands tall at 2.7 meters and weighs around 4,900 … Read more : Mysore decked up for Sunday’s ‘Jamboo Savari’.