Religion News – Monthly Newsletter February 2011

This Ram devotee was born a Muslim

PATNA – He is called Hanuman because of his devotion towards Lord Ram. He can name all the Hindu gods and goddesses in a single breath, and he performs the priest’s duties at a Bihar temple with unwavering dedication – no one can tell that Sidheswar Das was born Mohammad Sadique.

…. Source  : This Ram devotee was born a Muslim.

Pope calls for solidarity between all in New Year’s message

ROME – Pope Benedict XVI called for solidarity between all people in need in his annual New Year’s message Friday.

Modern times are filled with all manner of suffering and drama, some provoked by human evil, other by nature, said the pope. But God’s message of joy and freedom would also reach all people suffering …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Devotees flood Vrindavan, Mathura on New Year day

VRINDAVAN – Thousands of devotees from Delhi, Haryana and other places visited the holy towns of Vrindavan and Mathura in Uttar Pradesh to begin the new year with a visit to the temples.

“There was a record crowd of the devotees who went around visiting temples of Sri Krishna in Mathura, Goverdhan and Vrindavan,” Friends … Read more : Devotees flood Vrindavan, Mathura on New Year day.

Delhi traffic advisory for religious procession Sunday

NEW DELHI – A traffic advisory was Saturday issued as a religious procession on the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh would be taken out in the capital Sunday by the Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee.

“The annual procession will begin from Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in central Delhi and is likely to terminate … Read more »».

Tibetan Buddhism can solve global conflicts: Karmapa

BODH GAYA – The four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism are trying to find common ground to carry forward Lord Buddha’s teachings in way they can be used to resolve geo-political conflicts, says Thrinley Thaye Dorje, the 17th spiritual head of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism.

“The awareness that the four schools have … Read more : Tibetan Buddhism can solve global conflicts: Karmapa.

Alleged Christian missionaries arrested in Tehran

TEHRAN – A number of alleged Christian missionaries have been arrested in Iran’s Tehran province, official news agency IRNA reported.

Tehran province Governor Mortzea Tamadon told IRNA Tuesday that the arrested suspects belonged to a corrupted movement of Christian missionaries who planned a religious and cultural attack against Iran.
The governor gave no further details … Original article on : Alleged Christian missionaries arrested in Tehran.

Vaishno Devi got 8.7 million devotees in 2010

JAMMU – About 8.7 million devotees visited the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir last year.

This was conveyed by temple officials to Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra and central Minister of New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah at a meeting here Tuesday.
They were also told that the three tunnels leading to …. Read the original article  : Vaishno Devi got 8.7 million devotees in 2010.

Converts to Islam double in Britain, says study

LONDON – The number of Britons choosing to become Muslims has nearly doubled in the past decade, according to a study by an inter-faith think tank.

The study by think tank Faith Matters attempts to estimate how many people have embraced Islam.
Despite the “often negative” portrayal of Islam, thousands of Britons are adopting …. Read the original article  : here.

Hindu gods, Sai Babas fail to deter Nepal’s menace

KATHMANDU – Once the only Hindu kingdom in the world, Nepal has the largest number of religious holidays among countries, as well as the controversial reputation of sacrificing the largest numbers of birds and animals to obtain divine blessings.

Yet, the Nepal government’s attempt to prevent public nuisance – right next to what was … Read more : Hindu gods, Sai Babas fail to deter Nepal’s menace.

Himachal’s Naina Devi shrine sees record offerings

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh’s famed hilltop shrine of Naina Devi saw record offerings of over Rs.11 crore in 2010 apart from gold and silver, a temple official said Friday.

“There was an increase of Rs.2.03 crore in cash offerings at the shrine last year as compared to 2009. It broke the earlier (2009) record of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Himachal’s Naina Devi shrine sees record offerings.

Egypt’s Christians attend prayers with Muslim support

CAIRO – Amina Abaza was one of dozens of Muslims praying Thursday evening.

But instead of praying at a mosque, she was praying among Christian friends at the Coptic Virgin Mary Church, located in the upper-class Cairo neighbourhood of Zamalek.
“When I walked in, I told myself I cannot believe the day has come that … Read more : Egypt’s Christians attend prayers with Muslim support.

Russia’s Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas

MOSCOW – Russia’s Orthodox patriarch, Kirill I, called on worshippers to be kind to their fellow humans and the community at large Thursday, as millions of Orthodox Christians in the country celebrated their Christmas.

He highlighted the many people who provided assistance during Russia’s worst-ever forest fires earlier this year as a positive example.
The …. Source article  : Russia’s Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas.

Pope expresses support for Orthodox churches

ROME – Pope Benedict XVI used his epiphany mass Thursday to encourage Orthodox churches, among them Egypt’s Copts, to remain strong in the face of adversity.

“I direct my heart and my greetings to the brothers and sisters in the Orthodox churches, who celebrate their Christmas tomorrow,” the head of the Roman Catholic church said … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope expresses support for Orthodox churches.

Ram temple, Hindu terror, Brahmaputra dam top VHP meet agenda

RAMNATHI – An aggressive nationwide campaign for the Ramjanmabhoomi temple at Ayodhya and ways to work around “Congress-engineered saffron terror” tag are among major issues Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) top officials will discuss at their three-day conference, which began at Goa Friday.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the VHP’s international trustees and governing … Read more »»».

Horror films in Malaysia irk Islamic scholars

KUALA LUMPUR – Portraying of religious preachers as ghost-busters using verses from holy Quran in horror films being made in Malaysia has irked Islamic scholars.

The preachers, called “ustaz” are shown appeasing spirits of ghosts in many horror films that are made locally and are popular with the cine-goers.
Islamic scholars and preachers have called … Read more >>.

Parliament must empower Ram temple construction: VHP

RAMNATHI – The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Sunday appealed for a parliamentary act empowering the construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya and claimed it had received letters of support from 353 non-BJP members of parliament.

The three-day conclave of VHP trustees and members of the governing council has also vowed to create awareness …. Source  : Parliament must empower Ram temple construction: VHP.

Pope calls on world leaders to protect Christians

Vatican City, Jan 11 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI has called on world leaders to step up efforts to shield Christians from discrimination and violence.

In his annual message for World Day of Peace to the diplomatic corp accredited to the Holy See Monday, he said countries must guarantee “religious freedom as the fundamental path to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope calls on world leaders to protect Christians.

Vivekananda movement grows in Nepal on 148th anniversary

KATHMANDU – More than a century after his death, the electrifying ideology of 19th century Indian philosopher and social reformer Swami Vivekananda is gathering momentum in neighbouring Nepal with people as diverse as police officers, the president of the national boxers’ association, and top bankers and businessmen coming together to spread the thoughts of the …. Original source  : Vivekananda movement grows in Nepal on 148th anniversary.

Pope urges respect for religious symbols

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI appealed Monday for freedom of faith in Egypt, Pakistan, China and the Middle East, and urged greater respect in Western countries towards religious symbols and beliefs.

The right to religious freedom “is indeed the first of human rights”, the pontiff told ambassadors and envoys of some 179 states which …. Original source  : Pope urges respect for religious symbols.

Pakistani imam, son jailed on blasphemy charges

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani court has sentenced to life imprisonment a mosque’s chief clergy and his son for violating the country’s blasphemy law, days after Punjab province governor Salmaan Taseer was killed for his remarks on the controversial religious legislation.

Justice Roy Ayub Marth of the anti-terrorism court in Dera Ghazi Khan also handed down … Read : Pakistani imam, son jailed on blasphemy charges.

Egypt recalls envoy over Pope’s comments on church attack

CAIRO – Egypt Tuesday recalled its ambassador to the Vatican over “interfering” comments made by Pope Benedict XVI following the bombing of a Christian Coptic church in Alexandria.

“Egypt considers the latest statement by the Vatican to be an unacceptable interference in its domestic affairs,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
Ambassador Lamia Mekheimar … Read more »».

President, vice president greet nation on Makar Sankranti, Pongal

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil and Vice President Hamid Ansari Thursday greeted the nation on Makar Sankranti and Pongal and wished prosperity and happiness to the people.

“May these festivals bind the communities and regions of India in a bond of love and affection and inspire us to work for the unity and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President, vice president greet nation on Makar Sankranti, Pongal.

Do Vedic rites impact environment? Scientists head for Kerala village

NEW DELHI – Can ancient mantras induce rains? Do Vedic chants impact the surrounding environment? A team of scientists will attempt to find out the answers when they descend on the ancient village of Panjal in Kerala to study the 3,100-year-old Vedic ritual called Athirathram in April.

A team of Vedic scholars from Panjal village, … Original article on : Do Vedic rites impact environment? Scientists head for Kerala village.

Normalcy amid heavy security after Delhi mosque demolition

NEW DELHI – Heavy security was deployed in parts of south Delhi Thursday, a day after protests and stone pelting following the demolition of an illegal mosque by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).

According to police, the situation in Jangpura area is normal and things are being monitored closely.
“Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Swami Vivekananda’s 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The nation is celebrating the birth anniversary of the great spiritual and social saint Swami Vivekananda. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the nationwide celebrations today in honor of the Neo-Vedantist’s 150th birth anniversary. Prior to the birth anniversary of the saint on January 12, the Prime minister has ensured that … Read more »»».

Gulf-based Hindu builds mosque in Kerala

NEW DELHI – A Qatar-based Hindu businessman is constructing a mosque in Kerala with the aim of promoting communal harmony. He claims it will be the first mosque to be built in the state by a Hindu in over 1,200 years.

“Construction is going on. The mosque will be ready in two-three months. Over 400 … Read more : Gulf-based Hindu builds mosque in Kerala.

Millions celebrate Makar Sankranti in Bihar

PATNA – Millions of people in Bihar took a dip in the holy Ganga river Friday to mark the annual harvest festival of Makar Sankranti.

The people celebrated it with traditional fervour.
Braving the biting morning chill, they thronged the Ganga banks and other water bodies and offered prayers.
People across Bihar joined …. Read the original article  : Millions celebrate Makar Sankranti in Bihar.

Agra warms up with tourists, festival cheer

AGRA – After nearly a fortnight of biting cold, Agra has perked up with the Lohri and Makar Sankranti estivals heralding warmer weather and more tourists.

The sunshine is back in the city since the past two days and so is the bustle. Agra, where the mercury plummeted to a freezing 1 degree Celsius Tuesday, [..] Read the original article: here.

Delhi celebrates Lohri with bonfires and drumbeats

NEW DELHI – Crackling fires and beating drums were prevalent throughout Delhi Thursday evening as residents gathered around roaring bonfires to celebrate the harvest festival of Lohri.

Traditionally associated with the harvest of the rabi crop, Lohri is celebrated with mirth and enjoyment. People celebrated the occasion with feasting, exchange of gifts and songs and … Read more >>.

Delhi mosque demolition: DDA to file report in court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) will Friday submit its report to the Delhi High Court on the mosque built illegally on its land in the Jangpura area in 2005 and which was demolished Wednesday.

Facing a contempt threat from the high court, the DDA – after several failed attempts – succeeded … Read : Delhi mosque demolition: DDA to file report in court.

With bonfires and bonhomie, Delhi set to celebrate Lohri

NEW DELHI – Firewood has been stacked up to be lit into a bonfire in the evening, popcorn, peanuts and sweetmeats bought and the mood is upbeat as the capital prepares to celebrate the harvest festival of Lohri Thursday.

Traditionally associated with the harvest of the rabi crop, Lohri is celebrated with mirth and enjoyment. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : With bonfires and bonhomie, Delhi set to celebrate Lohri.

Over five lakh pilgrims take holy dip at Gangasagar

SAGAR ISLAND – Over five lakh pilgrims from across India and even abroad took a holy dip in the river Ganga, braving the icy cold water and a chilly wind at the annual Gangasagar Fair here on Makar Sankranti Saturday.

About 150 km from Kolkata in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district, this island is … Original article on : Over five lakh pilgrims take holy dip at Gangasagar.

Pope John Paul II Will Be Beatified

VATICAN CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- The citizens of Rome are all set to witness the beatification of Pope John Paul II on May 1, the Vatican City officials announced the news on Friday. The media outlets reported that Pope Benedict XVI signed an official document and gave permission to beatify Pope John Paul II. The media … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope John Paul II Will Be Beatified.

Pongal Celebrations In Full Swing

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The month of January in India sees traditional harvest festivals being celebrated in various parts of the country. While the western states celebrate Lohri, a number of states gear up for Makar Sankranti and for the South Indians the time is set for Pongal. The festival is being celebrated by Tamilians …. Read the original article  : here.

Assam celebrates Bihu festival with bonfires, feasting

GUWAHATI – Bonfires and community feasts were held across Assam as the state celebrated the harvest festival of Magh Bihu Saturday.

Magh Bihu also known as Bhogali Bihu is a two-day festival and dedicated to Lord Agni, the Hindu fire god.
People across Assam early Saturday made bonfires of ‘mejis’ and ‘bhelaghars’.
The ‘meji’ …. Read the original article  : here.

Sankranti Spirit Grips India

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Indians are still enjoying the festive flavor of Makar Sankranti, the harvest festival that has sent celebration mood countrywide. The fact that it comes at the same time with Pongal, a major South Indian festive event, has spread the joy and spirit among Indians even more. People are expecting a … Read more »»».

Land reclaimed after mosque demolition, DDA tells court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) Friday told the Delhi High Court that it had complied with its orders for demolishing a mosque built illegally on public land in Jangpura in south Delhi and had reclaimed 350 sq metres of its land.

The DDA also pleaded with the court to drop its … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Land reclaimed after mosque demolition, DDA tells court.

‘Sikhs should expect screening of turbans at US airports’

WASHINGTON – A Sikh community advocacy group has warned the community to be prepared for the “reality that Sikhs should now always expect to be secondarily screened at American airports.”

The warning was issued by The Sikh Coalition in its revised guidance for “Airport Screening Procedures as Applied to Sikh Travellers and Your Rights as …. Source article  : ‘Sikhs should expect screening of turbans at US airports’.

Vatican to beatify Pope John Paul II May 1

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican said Friday Pope John Paul II is to be beatified – the penultimate step in the process to make the late pontiff a saint – at a ceremony in Rome May 1.

Pope Benedict XVI approved, through a decree, a miracle attributed to John Paul, the head of the Vatican’s …. Source article  : Vatican to beatify Pope John Paul II May 1.

We have reclaimed land from mosque, DDA tells court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) Friday told the Delhi High Court that it had complied with its orders on demolition of a mosque built illegally on government land in Jangpura in south Delhi and had reclaimed 350 sq metre of its land.

Facing a contempt threat from the high court, the DDA, … Original source on Gaea Times at : We have reclaimed land from mosque, DDA tells court.

‘Dalai Lama will continue to work for Tibet cause’

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan prime minister-in-exile Samdhong Rinpoche has said there is no need to worry about the Dalai Lama’s retirement plan as he would continue to work for the cause of Tibet, an official statement said here Friday.

“His Holiness (the Dalai Lama) has recently clarified his statement on retirement that except some changes in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Dalai Lama will continue to work for Tibet cause’.

Three former Anglican bishops ordained in Catholic Church

LONDON – In a history-making ceremony, three former Anglican church bishops — all married and with children — were Saturday ordained as Catholic priests, a move they took to protest female ordination in the Anglican Church.

Westminster Bishop Vincent Nichols, leader of Catholics in England and Wales, ordained the three men — Andrew Burnham, Keith … Read more »»».

Mosque demolition: Contempt plea filed against Dikshit

NEW DELHI – People from a south Delhi neighbourhood Saturday moved the Delhi High Court seeking initiation of contempt of court proceedings against Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid Syed Ahmed Bukhari for allegedly instigating people to offer prayers at the site of a razed illegal mosque.

Prayers were offered on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Assam celebrates Bihu festival with bonfires, bird fights

HAJO – For a prize comprising traditional bell metal utensils, up to 200 birds and their owners were locked in a bitter fight Saturday — an event that marks Bhogali Bihu, the harvest festival in Assam.

Since morning, this dusty roadside village, some 30 km west of Guwahati, came alive with an estimated 200 red-vented [..] Read the original article: here.

This Buddhist monk is pop fan, likes fashion and tweets

BEIJING – A Buddhist monk has become popular for performing pop music, using latest gadgets and wearing fashionable gowns while travelling in China to spread his religion.

Unlike traditional Buddhist monks, Shi Daoxin, formerly an abbot at a temple in eastern Jiangxi province, is a fan of Harry Potter and uses the latest iPhone and …. Read the original article  : This Buddhist monk is pop fan, likes fashion and tweets.

Court allows prayers at demolished mosque site

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday ordered the capital’s land and housing developing authority to allow ten devotees to offer prayers for the next two months at the site of a mosque demolished in south Delhi last week.

Justice G.S. Sistani asked Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to build a boundary wall with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Court allows prayers at demolished mosque site.

Bihar beckons: NRI shooting documentary with Hollywood crew

PATNA – California-based NRI filmmaker Ravi Verma has come all the way to his native Bihar with a Hollywood crew to make a documentary on famous Chinese Buddhist monk Hiuen Tsang’s journey to India and says it’s a dream come true.

Verma and the crew are busy shooting the documentary “Hridayasutram” in Bihar’s popular Buddhist … Read : Bihar beckons: NRI shooting documentary with Hollywood crew.

Catholic Church urges ‘clarity’ from Berlusconi over sex scandal

ROME – The Catholic Church in Italy Tuesday urged embattled Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to shed light on charges facing him in a widening sex scandal.

“Necessary clarity”, demanded the headline of a front-page editorial of Avvenire, a daily newspaper owned by Italy’s Catholic Bishops Conference.
About “the umpteenth judicial-political scandal”, raging against the premier … Original article on : Catholic Church urges ‘clarity’ from Berlusconi over sex scandal.

Finally, ’salvation’ for 128 Hindus who died in Pakistan

NEW DELHI – For 35 long years, the ashes of 128 Hindus remained at a cremation ground in Karachi, in the hope that some day the departed souls would attain “salvation” when their last remains are immersed in the holy Ganga.

That last wish of these people, who died in Pakistan since independence, … Read more : Finally, ’salvation’ for 128 Hindus who died in Pakistan.

Sikhs with kirpans denied entry to Quebec assembly

TORONTO – The kirpan issue was to the fore once again in Canada Wednesday when four Sikhs were barred from entering the Quebec provincial assembly for carrying a “potential weapon”.

The Bloc Quebecois political party further stoked the issue by seeking outright ban on the kirpan even in the Canadian parliament where two kirpan-wearing Sikh … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sikhs with kirpans denied entry to Quebec assembly.

Malaysian Hindu festival gets Buddhist touch

GEORGE TOWN – Two Malaysian Indian brothers celebrating the Thaipusam festival of the Tamil Hindus carried idols of Buddhist deity Kuan Yin after their ailing mother recovered.

G. Asokumar, 31, and his brother G. Sivakumar, 40, Wednesday carried the idol in a kavadi, a plywood platform, on their shoulders from a Buddhist temple to the … Read more : Malaysian Hindu festival gets Buddhist touch.

Kirpan ban slammed by Canadian opposition, media

TORONTO – The opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) Thursday slammed the barring of four Sikhs with kirpans from entering the Quebec provincial assembly and demands for ban on the symbolic dagger in parliament.

The Sikhs had gone to appear before a assembly committee which is debating a bill to deal with accommodation of religious minorities …. Original article  : Kirpan ban slammed by Canadian opposition, media.

Only 10 people can pray at demolished Delhi mosque: Court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday disallowed a fresh plea seeking permission to allow more than 10 people to offer Friday prayers at a mosque that was demolished by the authorities after being termed illegal.

“This land does not belong to you anymore. Therefore we cannot allow your plea,” Justice G.S. Sistani said …. Read the original article  : Only 10 people can pray at demolished Delhi mosque: Court.

Apex court to go into quota for Dalit Christians, Muslims

NEW DELHI – Is denial of the Scheduled Caste reservations to Dalit Christians and Muslims – as available to Hindus, Sikh, and Buddhists – violative of Article 14 of the constitution? The Supreme Court Friday said it will hold a hearing on the question.

An apex court bench headed by Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia …. Source article  : Apex court to go into quota for Dalit Christians, Muslims.

New New York cab rules will still allow turbans

NEW YORK – New York taxi drivers, many of them immigrants from dozens of countries, are notorious for being unkempt and even obnoxious.

But in updating 20-year-old rules to set a new standard for drivers – that they maintain a “professional appearance” – the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commissioner Thursday made sure to communicate … Read more »».

Apex court to examine quota for Dalit Christians, Muslims

NEW DELHI – Is denial of the Scheduled Castes reservations to Dalit Christians and Muslims – as available to Hindus, Sikh, and Buddhists – violative of Article 14 of the constitution? The Supreme Court Friday said it will hold a hearing on the question.

The apex court bench of Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia, Justice K.S. …. Read the original article  : Apex court to examine quota for Dalit Christians, Muslims.

Only 10 people can pray at demolished mosque site: Court

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday reiterated that only ten people would be allowed to offer Friday prayers at the site of a demolished mosque and said it has asked the capital\’s land and housing development authority to reclaim the land.

The court disallowed a fresh plea of Noor Charitable Society (NCS) …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Only 10 people can pray at demolished mosque site: Court.

First cross metal detectors, then enter Goa churches

PANAJI – The next time you want to walk down the solemn church pews in Goa, you might just have to duck under door frame metal detectors first. And frisking points and handbag scanners may just come in next.

Faced with increasing instances of desecration and break-ins, authorities in the Archdiocese of Goa have issued … Original source on Gaea Times at : First cross metal detectors, then enter Goa churches.

Kerala rationalists go to court on ‘celestial light’

KOCHI – A rationalist organisation in Kerala, Yukthivadi Sanghom, has approached the state high court, to intervene in the “celestial light” phenomenon near the Sabarimala temple, claiming it is man-made.

Showing photos of the place where he claimed the event takes place, Sanghom official Sreeni Pattathanam told reporters Saturday: “This is the place where … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kerala rationalists go to court on ‘celestial light’.

Concern for sparrows on spiritual leader’s 100th birthday

MUMBAI – The forthcoming 100th birthday of spiritual head of the Dawoodi Bohra sect Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin in March will be celebrated by paying special attention to the humble sparrow, an official said here Monday.

The Burhani Foundation and Nature Forever Society (NFS) have teamed up to distribute 52,000 bird feeders (trays with seeds kept … Read : Concern for sparrows on spiritual leader’s 100th birthday.

Miss Pakistan World backs Veena Malik in row with clerics

TORONTO – Miss Pakistan World Annie Rupani Sunday came out in support of Pakistani actress Veena Malik who is under fire from the Muslim clergy in her country for getting too close with Indian actor Ashmit Patel during her participation in Bigg Boss-4 in India.

Slamming Mufti Abdul Qawi who said in a TV interview …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Miss Pakistan World backs Veena Malik in row with clerics.

Gujarat not to aid rebuilding riot-damaged religious buildings

Gandhinagar, Jan 24 ((IANS) Making its policy clear on the issue of granting aid to religious structures damaged in the 2002 riots, the Gujarat government Monday told the state high court that it will not provide any financial aid to them.

The government pleader, P.K. Jani conveyed this to the first bench comprising Chief …. Original article  : Gujarat not to aid rebuilding riot-damaged religious buildings.

Court asks police to maintain peace during Shia procession

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Monday asked police to ensure peace in communally-sensitive Aliganj area near Qanati Masjid in south Delhi in view of Chehlum procession to be taken out Tuesday by members of the Shia community.

Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw also allowed the mosque management to install a temporary screen at the …. Original article  : Court asks police to maintain peace during Shia procession.

India’s Islamic, Buddhist heritage on display

NEW DELHI – Be it Sufi traditions or Bidri art, India’s Islamic heritage was highlighted at the Republic Day parade here Wednesday, an event watched by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim nation.

The tableaus from Bihar and Karnataka showcased a Sufi shrine and Bidri craft, a field dominated by Muslim … Read more >>>.

Deoband chief offers to quit over Modi remarks row

LUCKNOW – Caught in controversy over his alleged praise for Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, Deoband Islamic seminary’s vice chancellor Maulana Mohammad Ghulam Vastanvi Tuesday offered to step down from the position he had been appointed to barely a few weeks back.

According to a Darul Uloom source, Maulana Vastanvi has tendered his resignation, which …. Original article  : Deoband chief offers to quit over Modi remarks row.

Muslim clerics join hands for polio eradication in Uttar Pradesh

MEERUT – From sending greeting cards to issuing printed appeals and making announcements from the mosque loudspeaker – Muslim clerics in western Uttar Pradesh are doing everything, and with much success, to motivate their community to get children immunised against polio.

Their cajoling has had a good effect – as from 1,700 houses in the …. Original article  : Muslim clerics join hands for polio eradication in Uttar Pradesh.

Panel clears BJP, Hindu groups in Karnataka church attacks

BANGALORE – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), its government in Karnataka and pro-Hindu outfits had no hand in the series of attacks on churches in the state in 2008, a judicial panel said Friday.

“There is no basis to the apprehension of petitioners that politicians, BJP, sangha parivar (as pro-Hindu outfits are called) and the … Read more »».

Ancient Fatehpuri mosque to be restored to old glory

NEW DELHI – The ageing Fatehpuri mosque in Old Delhi is awaiting a much-needed facelift that can extend by some 100 years the life of one of the grandest Islamic monuments in India.

If and when the restoration work begins, it will take up to two years to restore the original glory of the mosque …. Read the original article  : Ancient Fatehpuri mosque to be restored to old glory.

US civil liberties groups back Sikh rights

WASHINGTON – A Sikh advocacy group joined by several other civil rights organizations have urged California’s Indian-American Attorney General Kamala Harris not to oppose a bearded Sikh who wants to serve as a prison guard.

Trilochan Singh Oberoi was denied a job as a Corrections Officer in Folsom because of a claim by Department … Read more : US civil liberties groups back Sikh rights.

Buddhist monks walking for world peace reach Agra

AGRA – Nearly 300 Buddhist monks from Thailand, Poland, England, Ireland and Germany, walking across India for world peace and welfare, have reached the Taj city.

They were given a warm reception by the local Buddhist community here Thursday and a colourful tented township has come up at the Budh Vihar, near the Agra …. Original article  : Buddhist monks walking for world peace reach Agra.

Online Islamic law encyclopaedia ‘Wiqifiqh’ launched

Tehran, Jan 28 (IANS/AKI) The Islamic Information and Documentation Centre in the Iranian capital, Tehran, has launched the free online Islamic law encyclopaedia, ‘Wikifiqh’ in farsi. English and Arabic versions are also planned.

The encyclopaedia contains entries on millions of concepts in Islamic law (’fiqh’ in Arabic) and the Muslim faith.
Part of the ‘Wikifiqh’ …. Source  : Online Islamic law encyclopaedia ‘Wiqifiqh’ launched.

Nepal Christians fight against grave injustice

KATHMANDU – When Nepali boxer Raju Budha Magar received a killer punch on the head during a tourney in central Nepal earlier this month and fell in the ring, it was the start of an unbelievable nightmare for the family of the 22-year-old.

Budha Magar died the next day without regaining consciousness and his family … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nepal Christians fight against grave injustice.

11 years after his escape, Karmapa remains as controversial

DHARAMSALA – His flight to freedom from a monastery near Lhasa, the capital of Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) in China, was as mysterious as controversial. The Indian government has banned him from going to the Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim. And now, the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, has landed in another controversy with currency worth …. Source article  : 11 years after his escape, Karmapa remains as controversial.

Supreme Court dismisses plea to stop Haj subsidy

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday dismissed a petition by former Bharatiya Janata Party MP and Hindu ideologue Praful Goradia seeking the abolition of the subsidy given to Haj pilgrims.

There is no force in this petition and it is dismissed, the court said.
The court also said that a very small expenditure in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court dismisses plea to stop Haj subsidy.

Who is the Karmapa? (To go with Rs.6 crore currency seized from Karmapa’s monastery)

DHARAMSALA – An important institution in the Tibetan religious set up, the Karmapa Lama is the spiritual head of the Karma Kagyu sect, one of the four sects of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the richest.

In the Tibetan religious hierarchy, he is considered the third most important Tibetan religious head after the institutions … Original source on Gaea Times at : Who is the Karmapa? (To go with Rs.6 crore currency seized from Karmapa’s monastery).

Panel clears BJP, Hindu groups of church attacks; opposition cries foul

BANGALORE – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), its government in Karnataka and pro-Hindu outfits had no hand in the attacks on churches in the state in 2008, a judicial panel said Friday. The opposition Congress and Janata Dal-Secular, however, slammed the findings, saying “the government got what it sought.”

“There is no basis to the …. Read the original article  : Panel clears BJP, Hindu groups of church attacks; opposition cries foul.

After Christians, ancient Nepal tribe fights for burial rights

KATHMANDU – Close on the heels of Nepal’s Christian community warning the government that they would discard their dead in front of the prime minister’s office unless granted a burial site of their own, now an ancient Nepali tribe is also up in arms, demanding the same right.

The Kirats, an ancient tribe of mighty … Read : After Christians, ancient Nepal tribe fights for burial rights.

Sikhs urged to celebrate March 14 as Environment Day

WASHINGTON – An international Sikh group has appealed to all Sikh gurdwaras and institutions to celebrate March 14, the day Guru Har Rai became the 7th Sikh Guru in 1644 AD, as Sikh Environment Day.

EcoSikh said it has received confirmation of participation from many Sikh institutions in India and abroad. EcoSikh has also launched …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Fatwa’ issued against British home secretary

LONDON – Several posters have come up in London, declaring a “fatwa” – or religious pronouncement – against Home Secretary Theresa May for the “abduction, kidnapping and false imprisonment” of several radical clerics.

Scotland Yard has begun investigating after the “wanted-style” posters came up in Tooting in south west London, the Independent reported.
A fatwa … Read more : ‘Fatwa’ issued against British home secretary.

Moily for CBI probe into Karnataka church attacks

BANGALORE – Union Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily Saturday said the judicial panel, which absolved the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and Hindu groups of attacks on churches in Karnataka, had suppressed the truth.

“Only a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will bring out the truth,” he told reporters here a day after … Read more »»».

Burial battle intensifies in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Scores of demonstrators flocked to the holiest Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath Monday to protest against the newly enforced ban on burying non-Hindus on the temple’s forested land even as the former Hindu kingdom’s culture minister warned the state would take tough steps to uphold the ban.

“Today’s protest is just a symbolic one,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Burial battle intensifies in Nepal.

Community mobilisers inch closer towards making India polio-free

MEERUT – Munzareen Fatima was excited when she was featured as a dedicated polio worker in Oscar-nominated documentary “The Final Inch” in 2009. The 40-year-old, who is a Unicef community mobiliser in her real life as well, awaits the day when India will be declared polio free.

Munzareen is part of an over 5,000-strong team …. Original article  : Community mobilisers inch closer towards making India polio-free.