Religion News – Monthly Newsletter March 2011

Nepal PM steps in to defuse religious row over burials

KATHMANDU – The ugly religious row that erupted near one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world showed signs of calming down Tuesday after Nepal’s caretaker Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal intervened, promising status quo to a minority community.

The Kirats of Nepal, an ancient hunting tribe that migrated to Nepal from Tibet and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nepal PM steps in to defuse religious row over burials.

No conclusion drawn on Karmapa issue: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – With central agencies and Himachal Pradesh police probing the huge currency haul from the monastery of the 17th Karmapa Lama, Home Minister P. Chidambaram Monday said it was difficult to come to any conclusion on the issue till the probe was completed.

“I have been briefed. But I am not prepared …. Original article  : No conclusion drawn on Karmapa issue: Chidambaram.

Kerala government told to take over Padmanabhaswamy temple

KOCHI – The Kerala High Court Monday asked the state government to take over control of the 16th century Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple in the heart of the capital city. The temple, at present, is maintained by the erstwhile royal family of Travancore.

A division bench of the court gave the direction while disposing a bunch … Read more >>>.

Nepal court comes to Pashupatinath’s aid

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s apex court Monday came to the aid of one of the nation’s oldest and holiest Hindu temples, asking the government not to tamper with the treasury of Pashupatinath till the dispute was resolved.

The single bench of Supreme Court judge Girish Chandra Lal slapped an interim stay order on the caretaker governments … Read more >>>.

Himachal to have probe wing to keep tabs on Tibetans

NEW DELHI – In the wake of the seizure of unaccounted money from a monastery of the Karmapa Lama, the Himachal Pradesh government will set up an investigation wing to keep tabs on the activities of Tibetan exiles settled across the state, Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal said Tuesday.

He also told the chief ministers’ … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Himachal to have probe wing to keep tabs on Tibetans.

‘Homosexuality result of violent emotional abuse’

LONDON – The new imam at the proposed Ground Zero mosque in New York has said that homosexuality is the result of “violent emotional or sexual abuse at some point in the life of the gay people”.

Abdallah Adhami, 44, was appointed a senior adviser last month to the “Park51″ project at Ground Zero, … Read more »»».

Sherry Rehman withdraws bill for blasphemy law amendment

ISLAMABAD – Former cabinet minister and member of the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Sherry Rehman has withdrawn a bill tabled in the national assembly proposing amendments in the blasphemy law, a media report said.

Samaa TV reported Wednesday evening that Rehman withdrew the bill on the directions of Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani.
Gilani … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sherry Rehman withdraws bill for blasphemy law amendment.

Obama’s prayer: ‘Lord, have that skirt get longer’

WASHINGTON – Like any other father of a growing daughter, Barack Obama too has to sometimes summon the help of God. In fact, he says being president “has a funny way of making a person feel the need to pray.”

At the National Prayer Breakfast Thursday, Obama departed from an otherwise serious talk about prayer …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama’s prayer: ‘Lord, have that skirt get longer’.

Cash row renews clash of rival Karmapas

DHARAMSALA – The recovery of unaccounted money worth nearly Rs.7 crore (Rs.70 million) from the monastery of Tibetan leader Karmapa Lama has renewed the succession controversy in the Karma Kagyu sect, with two rival monks claiming to be the ‘real’ Karmapa.

An important institution in the Tibetan religious set-up, the Karmapa Lama is the spiritual … Read more >>>.

Wajahat Habibullah is new head of minorities’ panel

NEW DELHI – Former bureaucrat and India’s first chief information commissioner Wajahat Habibullah Thursday took over as the new chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities.

Habibullah will hold the office for a period of three years, said an official of the minority affairs ministry that presides over the minority panel.
A 1968-batch IAS …. Read the original article  : Wajahat Habibullah is new head of minorities’ panel.

Stop solidarity marches for Karmapa, Dhumal tells Tibetans

DHARAMSALA – Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister P.K. Dhumal Thursday asked Tibetans to stop carrying out marches to express solidarity with the 17th Karmapa, who was questioned by police last week over the recovery of unaccounted currency amounting to nearly Rs.70 million from his monastery.

“I have asked them to stop marches and wait for the … Read more : Stop solidarity marches for Karmapa, Dhumal tells Tibetans.

Indian firm gets court nod for Islamic banking concept

KOCHI – The Kerala High Court Thursday gave the green signal to a company registered under the tenets of sharia to start operating a financial institution based on the principles of Islamic banking with the participation of a state-run firm.

Such institutions cannot charge interest.
Dismissing the petitions of Janata Party leader Subramanian Swamy and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian firm gets court nod for Islamic banking concept.

Dalai Lama uses donations to fund hospital

DHARAMSALA – A Right to Information (RTI) plea has revealed how Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama uses donations – with at least Rs.1 crore going towards setting up a hospital in Himachal Pradesh.

Information gathered by RTI activist Lawan Thakur of Mandi town Friday showed that the Dalai Lama has donated Rs.1 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kerala to support Islamic banking venture

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Issac Friday expressed happiness over a court verdict giving the green signal to Al Barakah Company to start an institution on Islamic banking principles.

The company has planned the venture along with the Kerala State Industrial Development Corp (KSIDC) as an investor.
This is a welcome judgment and the …. Source article  : Kerala to support Islamic banking venture.

Karmapa aides seek anticipatory bail

DHARAMSALA – Two aides of the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, Friday moved a Himachal Pradesh court seeking anticipatory bail over the seizure of about Rs.7 crore in foreign and Indian currency from the Gyuto Tantric University and Monastery near here.

Gompo Tsering, secretary of the Karmapa, and Tenzin Namgyal, a trustee of a Karmapa …. Read the original article  : Karmapa aides seek anticipatory bail.

Gandhi, Dalai Lama among world’s top icons: Time

DHARAMSALA – Mahatma Gandhi and the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama were Sunday listed by Time magazine among the world’s top 25 political icons.

Mohandas Gandhi, as the magazine called him, was credited with peaceful protests during the British Raj that helped him become the spiritual heart of the Indian independence struggle.
“Gandhi led … Read more »»».

Christians reject report on church attacks: Bangalore archbishop

BANGALORE – Archbishop of Bangalore Bernard Moras Saturday said the Christian community rejects a judicial panel report absolving Hindu groups of a series of attacks on churches in Karnataka in 2008.

The panel “has failed the Christian community”, Moras said, reacting to the findings of the Justice B.K. Somashekara judicial commission which absolved the ruling … Read : Christians reject report on church attacks: Bangalore archbishop.

Ahmadiyya convention in Bangladesh cancelled

DHAKA – The permission for the 87th annual convention of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Gazipur near here has been cancelled and curfew imposed around the venue after protests from Sunni Muslim hardliners, a media report Monday said.

Gazipur district administration Sunday deployed armed police at the venue where over 8,000 followers of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat … Read : Ahmadiyya convention in Bangladesh cancelled.

Saraswati Puja Preparations In Full Swing

PATNA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Come February 8 and the nation will be marking the celebrations of the Saraswati Puja, the goddess of knowledge and arts. The festival is celebrated all through India, especially in the eastern region where every house indulges in the rituals of the Saraswati Puja. Among the various places which will be marking …. Source article  : Saraswati Puja Preparations In Full Swing.

Weather prevents Dhoni’s pre-World Cup Vaishno Devi visit

JAMMU – Ahead of the World Cup, Indian cricket team captain M.S. Dhoni and his wife Sakshi arrived here Sunday to pay obeisance at the revered Hindu shrine of Vaishno Devi but could not make it there as their chopper could not land owing to “bad weather conditions”.

With the World Cup commencing Feb 19, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Weather prevents Dhoni’s pre-World Cup Vaishno Devi visit.

Wipe out corruption, says Ravi Shankar

BANGALORE – Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Sunday urged Indians to join hands “to root out corruption”.

“Fight corruption with truth and non-violent means. We have to come together to root out corruption from India,” he told a large gathering of youths here.
Speaking at his Art of Living International Center for the Yuva …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wipe out corruption, says Ravi Shankar.

Gandhi, Akbar among world’s top icons: Time (Lead, Changing dateline)

NEW DELHI – Mahatma Gandhi, Mughal emperor Akbar and Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama have been named by Time magazine among the world’s top 25 political icons.

Mohandas Gandhi, as the magazine called him, led the list which also included Alexander the Great, Mao Zedong, Winston Churchill, Genghis Khan, Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, Hitler, … Read more »».

Pundit who popularized Gayatri Mantra remembered

MATHURA/AGRA – The centenary celebrations of Pandit Sri Ram Sharma Acharya, who popularized Gayatri Mantra like never before, started here Sunday.

In Mathura, the celebrations began with a Kalash Yatra and prayers. The Methodist Church campus saw thousands of “Gayatri Parivar members pouring in. Agra Mayor Anjula Singh Mahaur led the procession.
Talking to [..] Read the original article: here.

Saraswati Puja: Many Patna Institutes To Leave Out

PATNA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Just like educational institutions all across the nation, schools, colleges and other centers of learning in Patna would be celebrating Saraswati Puja with much elan on Tuesday. The goddess of learning, wisdom as well as knowledge would be worshiped by students in all these educational centers while many households would be …. Original source  : Saraswati Puja: Many Patna Institutes To Leave Out.

Saraswati Puja Being Celebrated Today

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Saraswati Puja is being celebrated with much fanfare all over the nation today. The spirit of the festivities is palpable across various educational institutions where pujas are being held for Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and learning. On the eve of Saraswati Puja, idol-makers in cities across the country … Original article on : Saraswati Puja Being Celebrated Today.

Cyber chatting against Islam, says Malaysian preacher

KUALA LUMPUR – Cyber chatting is against Islam, a Muslim preacher in Malaysia has said.

Preacher and motivational speaker Mohammed Zawawi Yusoh told Harian Metro newspaper that people who engage in chats even on cyberspace were vulnerable to temptation.
It is akin to committing ‘khalwat’ (close proximity), which is an offence under the Islamic … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cyber chatting against Islam, says Malaysian preacher.

Hanuman idol perched atop pole in Trinidad and Tobago

Port-of-SPAIN – A massive idol of Lord Hanuman perched atop a pole has been unveiled in Trinidad and Tobago.

The idol was unveiled by Minister of Education Tim Gopeesingh at the Todds Road Hindu Temple in central Trinidad. Rudy Indarsingh, a minister, was present.
The idol, 12 feet long and 24 feet high, in a … Read more »».

UAE firms to shut on Prophet’s birthday Feb 17

Abu Dhabi, Feb 7 (IANS/WAM) All private sector companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will close Feb 17 to mark Prophet Mohammad’s birth anniversary, a government announcement said Monday.

A circular issued by the labour ministry also greeted the people of the UAE on the occasion.
–IANS/WAM
…. Source article  : UAE firms to shut on Prophet’s birthday Feb 17.

21st century should be century of dialogue: Dalai Lama

PANAJI – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Monday said that the 21st century should be known as the century of dialogue.

Speaking here in a Goa government sponsored lecture series, the Tibetan leader also said that this century should convince people that any problem in the world can be resolved by dialogue.
…. Original source  : 21st century should be century of dialogue: Dalai Lama.

Have libraries in places of worship, says Dalai Lama

PANAJI – Buddhist spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama Monday suggested that the numerous temples of worship mushrooming across the country should also house libraries along with statues of deities.

“There should be libraries in temples instead of just statues,” the Dalai Lama said, adding India has been a storehouse of information for the last …. Source  : Have libraries in places of worship, says Dalai Lama.

Hindu temple at centre of Thai-Cambodian border battle

BANGKOK – Preah Vihear, an ancient Hindu temple located at Monday’s border skirmish between Thailand and Cambodia is at the centre of an escalating row between the two southeast Asian nations.

The site’s history dates back to the 9th century, when a place of worship dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva was constructed. Khmer King … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hindu temple at centre of Thai-Cambodian border battle.

Embrace Islam or face gallows: Afghan worker told

LONDON – An Afghan Red Cross activist, who had embraced Christanity, faces death sentence handed down by a court in Afghanistan.

Physiotherapist Said Musa, 45, will be executed within three days, the Daily Mail reported Monday.
Musa, who has been held for eight months in a Kabul prison, claims he has been tortured and sexually …. Read the original article  : Embrace Islam or face gallows: Afghan worker told.

Dalai Lama blames Karmapa aide for cash, land scam

PANAJI – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Monday gave a clean chit to Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, whose public trusts have been accused of a land scam and illegally stashing foreign currency in his monastery.

The Dalai Lama blamed one of the Karmapa’s attendants for the scandal which he described as not serious.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Compensation in Sabarimala tragedies still unpaid

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The opposition Wednesday said in the Kerala assembly that the government was yet to compensate victims in the latest as well as an earlier tragedy at the Sabarimala temple.

Congress legislator T. Radhakrishnan sought leave for an adjournment motion in the assembly to discuss the accidents at Sabarimala, the latest being the Jan …. Original article  : Compensation in Sabarimala tragedies still unpaid.

UNESCO to assess damage to Hindu temple in Cambodia

UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations cultural agency plans to send a mission to assess the damage caused to the Preah Vihear Temple, a World Heritage site, by the recent armed clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.

Tensions first escalated between the South-East Asian neighbours in July 2008 following the build-up of military forces near … Original source on Gaea Times at : UNESCO to assess damage to Hindu temple in Cambodia.

Four lakh people take holy dip in Konark

BHUBANESWAR – At least four lakh pilgrims Thursday took a holy dip in a pond in Orissa’s temple town of Konark on the occasion of Magha Saptami which Hindus consider auspicious, the authorities said.

Devotees, including the elderly and children, worshipped the sun in the belief that the bath and prayer would cleanse them of … Read more »»».

Canadian Sikhs angry as Quebec assembly bans kirpan

TORONTO – The legislative assembly of Canada’s French-speaking Quebec province Wednesday passed a unanimous motion banning the kirpan from its premises.

All 113 members of the assembly, including Premier (chief minister) Jean Charest, voted in favour of the ban on the Sikh symbol.
The motion was introduced by the opposition Parti Quebecois (PQ) after last … Original source on Gaea Times at : Canadian Sikhs angry as Quebec assembly bans kirpan.

India’s biggest mosque to come up in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE – Preliminary work to build what is billed as Indias biggest mosque has begun here, thanks to the initiative of the charitable institution Jamia Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya headed by Muslim scholar Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobaker Musliyar.

Musliyar heads the popular social, charity and educational organisation based here which has in the past three decades educated …. Original article  : India’s biggest mosque to come up in Kozhikode.

Muslims preach RSS values in Lucknow

LUCKNOW – Donning skull caps and armed with RSS literature, small groups of Muslims here are on a campaign to preach the values of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh among members of their community.

Under the banner of the Akhil Bharatiya Maha Sufi Sant Sewa Samiti (ABMSSSS), around 75 Muslims are on a door-to-door campaign to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Controversial ‘Kumbh’ focusing on conversion begins in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL – A different kind of Mahakumbh began in Mandla in Madhya Pradesh Thursday. Unlike the rituals of bathing, devotional singing, and mass feeding of holy men and the poor held on the banks of the river at Mahakumbhs, this kumbh, initiated by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, is focussing on conversion.

This kumbh is more …. Source article  : Controversial ‘Kumbh’ focusing on conversion begins in Madhya Pradesh.

Pashupatinath wins first battle against new Nepal government

KATHMANDU – As Nepal’s new Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal Thursday succeeded in swearing in a mini cabinet amidst his allies, the Maoists, refusing to join his government, the new dispensation received its first setback with the apex court criticising the state move to take control of the treasury of Pashupatinath, the republic’s oldest Hindu …. Original source  : Pashupatinath wins first battle against new Nepal government.

Goa church accused of tampering with heritage complex

PANAJI – It houses the remains of Spanish missionary St Francis Xavier and attracts lakhs of tourists and the faithful. But the 16th century Old Goa Church complex is at the centre of a war of words between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the church authorities over allegations of irregularities and vandalism.

A …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tirupati temple deposits 1,175 kg gold with SBI

TIRUPATI – India’s richest Hindu temple here Friday deposited 1,175 kg gold with the State Bank of India (SBI) to convert the “dead assets” into income earning sources.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the temple’s affairs, had last year deposited 1,075 kg gold with the SBI.
TTD officials said the move would not only … Read more »»».

Himachal gives clean chit to Karmapa on cash row

SHIMLA – The Himachal Pradesh government Friday gave a clean chit to the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje in any financial irregularities, and categorically ruled out the possibility of any action against him.

There is no involvement of the Karmapa (in any financial irregularities). We have reasons to believe that some donations came for … Read : Himachal gives clean chit to Karmapa on cash row.

Tibetans not seeking ‘greater Tibet’: Dalai Lama

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has said he is not seeking a ‘greater Tibet’ as alleged by China, but reiterated that he cannot forsake responsibility towards finding a lasting solution to the issue.

As a Tibetan I cannot forsake my people and my responsibility towards finding a lasting solution to the issue … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tibetans not seeking ‘greater Tibet’: Dalai Lama.

Kathakali performance attempts to enter record books

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – In a first of its kind attempt, a total of 150 Kathakali artistes came together for a performance lasting 45 minutes here Saturday.

The entire performance was videographed by representatives from the Guinness World Records.
Eminent Kathakali artiste Ettumanur Kannan and his team of dancers gave life to the subtle ‘asanas’ of the … Read more »».

Land slips on Vaishno Devi shrine route to be checked

JAMMU – The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has asked a central government undertaking to scientifically treat the hills to prevent land slips along a 13-km track leading to the shrine, a statement said Saturday.

“The shrine board has engaged Tehri Hydro Development Corporation, a government of India undertaking, for undertaking all measures to …. Original article  : Land slips on Vaishno Devi shrine route to be checked.

Italian town prohibits use of blasphemous phrases

Brignano Gera d’Adda (Italy), Feb 12 (IANS/AKI) The northern Italy town of Brignano Gera d’Adda has approved a measure that bans the use of blasphemous words and phrases from public and business premises.

The council, dominated by the conservative Northern League party, approved the measure forbidding curses including “God”, “Jesus”, and “Mary” in the town …. Source article  : Italian town prohibits use of blasphemous phrases.

Maramon convention begins in Kerala

MARAMON – The Maramon Convention, considered to be the largest Christian congregation in Asia, opened its 116th session Sunday in the central Kerala town of Maramon.

Joseph Marthoma Metropolitan, the head of the Mar Thoma Church, inaugurated the convention organised by the Syrian Mar Thoma Church headquartered in Thiruvalla, about 130 km from Thiruvananthapuram. … Read : Maramon convention begins in Kerala.

Ayodhya case: Hashim Ansari to file appeal

LUCKNOW – Hashim Ansari, the oldest litigant in the Ayodhya land dispute, has finally given up hope for an out-of-court settlement on the issue, saying he will file a special leave petition in the Supreme Court Monday against the verdict of the Allahabad High Court.

Ninety-year old Ansari, who had initiated moves for a final …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ayodhya case: Hashim Ansari to file appeal.

Nepal’s valentines face wrath of Pashupatinath temple’s keepers

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s oldest and most famous Hindu temple, Pashupatinath, has begun a crackdown on couples found necking inside its premises, fining over 70 pairs since Valentine’s Day, celebrated worldwide as the day of lovers.

The keepers of the seventh century shrine, also a Unesco-declared World Heritage Site, began the drive Monday after warning that … Read more »»».

Milad-un-Nabi celebrated with gaiety in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad, was celebrated Wednesday with gaiety and fervour in Hyderabad and other parts of Andhra Pradesh.

Public meetings, rallies, feeding of the poor, ‘mehfil-e-milad’ or special gatherings in praise of the Prophet were held to mark the occasion.
Religious scholars and community leaders exhorted Muslims to strictly … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Milad-un-Nabi celebrated with gaiety in Hyderabad.

Tamil Nadu leaders greet Muslims on eve of Milad-un-Nabi

CHENNAI – Leaders in Tamil Nadu Tuesday greeted Muslims on the eve of Milad-un-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Mohammed.

Conveying his heartiest greetings to Muslims in Tamil Nadu and in other places Governor Surjit Singh Barnala said: “On this solemn occasion, let us pledge to carry on the message of Prophet Mohammed to the youth …. Source article  : Tamil Nadu leaders greet Muslims on eve of Milad-un-Nabi.

Bajrang Dal forces lovers to tie rakhi or get married

RANCHI – Bajrang Dal activists in Jharkhand played the moral police on Valentine’s Day Monday, forcing lovers in parks and other public place to either tie a rakhi or get married on the spot.

Hundreds of Bajrang Dal activists reached Jubilee Park in the steel city of Jamshedpur and caught lovers. The activists first asked … Read more »»».

Karmapa asked to apprise monastery officials of Indian laws

DHARAMSALA – Top officials of the 17th Karmapa say the central government, while signalling a clean chit to the Tibetan leader in the controversy over unaccounted foreign currency, wants him to register his trust and also apprise monastery functionaries on Indian laws.

“It’s true that we met senior home ministry officials in Delhi yesterday (Wednesday) … Read more : Karmapa asked to apprise monastery officials of Indian laws.

Cabbage field at Bangladesh’s Buddhist temple site

DHAKA – A cabbage field has replaced a Buddhist temple at an archaeological site built around 1,500 years ago during the rule of the Pala dynasty in northwestern Bangladesh, a media report said Thursday.

The ancient Mahasthangarh complex in Bogra district, the country’s oldest archaeological site, is at risk of destruction, The Daily Star said.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cabbage field at Bangladesh’s Buddhist temple site.

Buddha’s home Kapilavastu lies in utter neglect

KAPILAVASTU – The Uttar Pradesh government may be trying to project itself as a champion of Buddhism, yet his original home Kapilavastu, in the remotest corner of the state along the India-Nepal border, lies in a condition of utter neglect.

Way back in 563 BC, Queen Maya Devi might have conveniently traversed the distance of …. Read the original article  : Buddha’s home Kapilavastu lies in utter neglect.

Thousands offer prayers at Valley’s Hazratbal shrine

SRINAGAR – Thousands of people braved the cold and inclement weather Wednesday to offer prayers at Kashmir Valley’s holiest Muslim shrine of Hazratbal in summer capital Srinagar to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Mohammad.

Dressed in warm clothes, men, women and children converged at the shrine on the banks of the Dal Lake to … Original article on : Thousands offer prayers at Valley’s Hazratbal shrine.

Karmapa to visit Sarnath next month

DHARAMSALA – As the controversy over the recovery of foreign and Indian currency worth Rs.70 million ($1.5 million) from the 17th Karmapa’s monastery is gradually coming to an end, the Karmapa is headed next month to Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism, monastery officials said.

Even as the state and central intelligence agencies are keeping tabs …. Read the original article  : Karmapa to visit Sarnath next month.

Was Pakistani Maulana’s visit aimed at reinforcing anti-Vastanvi lobby?

LUCKNOW – The two-day India visit by Islamic hardliner and Pakistans Jamiat-ul-Islami chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman is believed to be aimed at reinforcing the lobby against recently-appointed Darul-Uloom Deoband Vice Chancellor Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi, who has drawn much flak for praising governance in Narendra Modi-ruled Gujarat.

Ostensibly, Rehman was in Deoband and New Delhi earlier … Read more »».

Karnataka bishops to protest church attacks

BANGALORE – Bangalore Archbishop Bernard Moras will lead 17 bishops in a sit-in protest Friday and the Christian community will hold a rally and candle light vigil here Monday to protest attacks on churches in the state.

The sit-in and the candle light vigil follow a judicial commission report absolving Hindu groups of the series … Read more »»».

Europe’s biggest Hindu temple to come up in Netherlands

BRUSSELS – The biggest Hindu temple complex in Europe – consisting of three temples, residential areas and tourist spots – is going to be built in the Dutch city of The Hague.

Three Hindu groups would be building three temples on a site behind the Hollands Spoor railway station, EuAsiaNews reported citing the Netherlands’ Trouw … Original article on : Europe’s biggest Hindu temple to come up in Netherlands.

India must change, give up lazy attitude: Dalai Lama

MUMBAI – India needs to buck up, the “lazy attitude is holding it back”, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said Friday addressing students of Mumbai University here.

“Dowry, gender discrimination would be the ancient traditional practices here but India needs to understand now that all of it is outdated. India must change,” he … Original article on : India must change, give up lazy attitude: Dalai Lama.

Mosque demolition: CBI challenges Advani clean-chit

NEW DELHI – The CBI Friday challenged in the Supreme Court the Allahabad High Court verdict discharging Bharatiya Janata Party leader L.K. Advani and 20 others from a criminal conspiracy case linked to the Dec 6, 1992 Babri Masjid demolition in Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya town.

Advani and 20 others were discharged by the high court … Read more : Mosque demolition: CBI challenges Advani clean-chit.

Amarnath pilgrimage to begin June 29

JAMMU – The annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir that attracts more than half a million pilgrims each year, will be held from June 29 to Aug 13, the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) said Friday.

The shrine board that met in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Governor N.N. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amarnath pilgrimage to begin June 29.

Karnataka to drop cases against Christians

BANGALORE – The Karnataka government Friday said it would withdraw cases registered against over 300 Christians when they protested attacks on churches in 2008.

“The government will take steps to withdraw the cases,” Home Minister R. Ashok told a delegation of 18 bishops who met him with the demand for rejecting a judicial panel … Read : Karnataka to drop cases against Christians.

Model nikahnama missing from Muslim law board website

LUCKNOW – A model nikahnama, aimed at curbing rising incidences of divorce among Muslims by means of triple utterance of the word “talaq”, has abruptly been removed from the website of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

The nikahnama, that was formulated after much deliberation by the board, was posted six years ago.
… Read : Model nikahnama missing from Muslim law board website.

Indian ban to hit Pashupatinath’s festival in Nepal

KATHMANDU – When devotees celebrate the night of Lord Pashupatinath, the Hindu god who is both the destroyer and saviour of the world, the rituals are going to be sorely hit, thanks to a ban by neighbouring India on the export of powdered milk.

Washing the deity at the hallowed Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indian ban to hit Pashupatinath’s festival in Nepal.

Spanish nun expelled for spending excess time on Facebook

LONDON – A nun who has lived in a convent in Spain for over 35 years, has now been asked to leave after she was found to be “spending too much time” on social networking website Facebook.

Sister Mara Jesus Galan – dubbed “Sister Internet” by her fellow nuns – wrote on her Facebook page … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spanish nun expelled for spending excess time on Facebook.

Goa pulls out play from Shivaji Jayanti celebrations

PANAJI – The Goa government was forced to pull out a Marathi play from events marking Maratha king Shivaji’s birth anniversary celebrations after right-wing Hindu groups claimed that it denigrated Hindu gods and saints.

A government spokesperson Tuesday said the play ‘Ghalin Lotangan’, sponsored by the state information and publicity department, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Goa pulls out play from Shivaji Jayanti celebrations.

Suriname observes festival similar to India’s Mahakumbh

Port-of-SPAIN – Hindus in Suriname enthusiastically observed Surya Kumbha Parvaa, a festival that is similar to India’s mammoth Mahakumbh.

The Surya Kumbha Parvaa began Jan 14, the auspicious day of Makar Sankranti.
The festival is similar to the Kumbha Mela Mahotsav celebrated in India in Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain and Nashik. Millions of people take … Read more : Suriname observes festival similar to India’s Mahakumbh.

Happy my father has been vindicated: Umarji’s son after acquittal

GODHRA – Saeed Umarji was just 25 when his 55-year-old cleric father Maulana Umarji was picked up by the police and made the main accused in the 2002 Godhra train carnage case.

I was a raw youngster enjoying my youthful days in this small town at the back of beyond. And suddenly my world …. Source article  : Happy my father has been vindicated: Umarji’s son after acquittal.

Government to meet Muslim MPs on Haj facility reforms

NEW DELHI – The government Thursday said it will soon call a meeting of Muslim members from both houses of parliament to seek suggestions on reforming Haj pilgrimage facilities.

“I plan to convene a meeting in the next few days of Muslim members from both houses so that we can have their views on reforms …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Government to meet Muslim MPs on Haj facility reforms.

Karmapa’s ‘Chinese connection’ leaves Himachal police red-faced

DHARAMSALA – Claims by Himachal Pradesh Police of a possible “Chinese connection” to the activities of Tibetan religious leader, the Karmapa, are falling apart with the Karmapa’s office giving out details that there was nothing amiss in the money found from his monastery.

The 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who resides at his temporary abode … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karmapa’s ‘Chinese connection’ leaves Himachal police red-faced.

Vastanvi to stay till Deoband panel submits report

DEOBAND – The controversial Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi will continue as vice chancellor of Darul Uloom Deoband till a three-member subcommittee of clerics constituted Wednesday takes a final call on him.

The decison was taken by the Majlis-e-Shoora, the seminary’s highest decision making body, which set up the subcomittee.
According to a spokesman of Darul … Read more : Vastanvi to stay till Deoband panel submits report.

Judicial custody of Karmapa’s aide, 6 others extended

DHARAMSALA – A Himachal Pradesh court Thursday extended the judicial custody of seven people, including the Karmapas aide Rubgi Chosang, also known as Shakti Lama, a police official said.

“The judicial custody of all the seven people arrested in connection with the Karmapa controversy was extended by Una’s Chief Judicial Magistrate Rajesh Tomar,” Superintendent of …. Read the original article  : here.

PM thanks nation for communal harmony

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday congratulated the people of India for showing maturity and maintaining communal harmony in the country, especially following the verdict on the disputed site in Ayodhya.

The communal situation in the country is very satisfactory, the prime minister said, in his reply to the debate on the presidents …. Source article  : PM thanks nation for communal harmony.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light …. Source  : Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light … Read more >>.

The Karmapa case: Lies, plants and damage control (Comment)

Now that Ogyen Trinley Dorje, better known as the 17th Karmapa, has been cleared of money-laundering charges by the Indian government, it is in order to take a look at the inept handling of a matter of great national importance and religious sensitivity.

But first a recap: A random police check on a car carrying …. Original article  : The Karmapa case: Lies, plants and damage control (Comment).

A congregation of deities in Himachal

MANDI – It will be a divine gathering! More than 200 gods and goddesses will ‘congregate’ here next week to participate in the centuries-old Mahashivratri Fair.

The week-long Mahashivratri Fair, one of the biggest traditional and religious festivals of the country, begins in Mandi March 3 — the day the festival is celebrated in …. Read the original article  : A congregation of deities in Himachal.

File petition on Makara Jyothi in high court: Apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking directions to the Kerala government and the Sabarimala Shrine Board to stop defrauding devotees by presenting ‘Makara Jyothi’ as a divine miracle, saying the matter can be raised in the state high court.

The apex court bench of Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia, Justice K.S. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : File petition on Makara Jyothi in high court: Apex court.

File petition on Makara Jyothi in high court: Apex court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking directions to the Kerala government and the Sabarimala Shrine Board to stop defrauding devotees by presenting ‘Makara Jyothi’ as a divine miracle, saying the matter can be raised in the state high court.

The apex court bench of Chief Justice S.H. Kapadia, Justice K.S. … Read more : File petition on Makara Jyothi in high court: Apex court.

Abortion solves no problem: Pope

ROME – Pope Benedict XVI Saturday reaffirmed his strict opposition to abortion, warning during a plenary meeting of the Pontifical Academy for Life in the Italian capital Rome that “abortion solves no problem”.

“But it kills a child, destroys the woman, weighs on the conscience of the father and often ruins family life,” Benedict said.
… Read more >>>.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light …. Original article  : Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light … Original article on : Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal.

Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal

KATHMANDU – In 2004, two years after he climbed Mt Everest for the seventh time, American mountaineering legend Peter Athans took part in a charitable cataract operation project in northern Nepal that changed the lives of nearly 300 beneficiaries.

Today, the event has led to a stupendous discovery that, once fully understood, could throw light … Original article on : Everest hero finds incredible religious treasure trove in Nepal.

Pranab invokes the gods

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee invoked the gods Monday while presenting the budget for 2011-12, appealing to Indra, the god of rains, and Saraswati, the goddess of learning.

The invocation brought some levity in the packed Lok Sabha, listening attentively to the minister.
This is the sixth such exercise for the 75-year-old veteran …. Read the original article  : here.

Pakistani Hindus seek security for Shivaratri

ISLAMABAD – A Hindu rights group is seeking action against an official in Pakistan’s Punjab province for refusing to provide security for the Shivratri festival next month.

Haroon Dayal, chairman of the All Pakistan Hindu Rights Association, told a television channel Sunday that the community’s repeated requests for security had been turned down.
Dayal demanded …. Read the original article  : Pakistani Hindus seek security for Shivaratri.

Pakistani Hindus not happy with security for Shivaratri

ISLAMABAD – A Hindu rights group has demanded immediate removal of the district coordination officer (DCO) of Chakwal in Pakistan’s Punjab province, after he allegedly refused to provide security for the Shivaratri festival March 2-4.

The chairman of the All Pakistan Hindu Rights Association (APHRA), Haroon Dayal, speaking to CNBC TV Sunday, said: “The …. Source  : Pakistani Hindus not happy with security for Shivaratri.