Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant visited Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri for Ganga puja, accompanied by tight security and joined by BCCI President Jay Shah.
Folk musicians of Rajasthan battle landlessness, rising heat in fight to save ancient art
CHURU/MEERUT: (May 4) In a noisy roadside restaurant along the Delhi-Haridwar highway, Subhash Nayak sits quietly in a corner, playing his Ravanhatta. The fading notes of the ancient instrument struggle to rise above the hum of passing vehicles and chatter of diners. Dressed in a bright turban and a satin-print waistcoat, Subhash is among the []
The newly appointed whole-time director of Reliance Industries, Anant Ambani and his wife Radhika Merchant were seen at Haridwar's sacred Hari Ki Pauri on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah, Anant Ambani Perform Ganga 'Aarti' In Haridwar
He would now visit the place and seek Ganga Maa's blessing every year, Shad added
Anant Ambani, Wife Radhika Merchant Offer Prayers At Haridwars Har Ki Pauri
Anant Amban and his wife, Radhika Merchant, performed the Ganga pujan with purohits of the Ganga Sabha
Uttarakhand: Outsiders can't buy farmland in 11 out of 13 districts
Uttarakhand has new land laws. Governor Gurmit Singh approved a bill. It restricts people from other states buying agricultural land. This applies to 11 districts. Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar are exceptions. The government aims to protect resources and culture. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami supports the law. He says it prevents uncontrolled land sales.
The first batch of devotees left for Haridwar on Tuesday morning ahead of the Char Dham Yatra, which is set to begin from April 30. The portals of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams are set to open on Wednesday whereas the gates of Kedarnath Dham will open on May 2, followed by Badrinath Dham, which is scheduled to open on May 4. As of now, more than 20 lakh people have registered for Char Dham Yatra 2025. According to official estimates, the numbers are expected to go upto 50 lakhs or even more. The online registration for the yatra started on March 20, while the offline mode commenced on April 28.
Ghaziabad man strangles lover, locks house & flees to Haridwar, held
Uttarakhand courts grapple with mounting backlog; HC case pendency soars 24%, data reveals
DEHRADUN: In a contrasting trend, Court case pendency in Uttarakhand has increased by 9% over the past two years, even as some districts managed to halve their backlogs. As of early 2025, a total of 384,234 cases are pending across the state's courts, comprising 316,369 criminal and 67,876 civil cases. The Uttarakhand High Court alone recorded a 24% rise in pending cases during this period. According to data provided by the Uttarakhand High Court to Kashipur-based RTI activist Nadeem Uddin, the court had 44,512 pending cases at the start of 2023. This figure included 25,635 civil and 18,877 criminal cases. By the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, the total number of pending cases had risen by 24 per cent to reach 55,323, comprising 30,301 civil and 25,022 criminal cases, Uddin told TNIE . In the state's subordinate courts, pending cases rose by 7% from 308,694 at the start of 2023 to 328,911 by early 2025. Criminal cases continue to dominate the dockets, with 270,822 pending in 2023, rising alongside 37,872 civil cases. District-wise data showed a mixed trend. Four districts saw an increase in pending cases, while nine districts managed to reduce their backlogs. Dehraduns pending cases rose by 5%, from 108,760 to 114,155. Haridwar reported a 21% surge, from 80,623 to 97,299 cases. Nainital district recorded a 2% increase, from 25,802 to 26,398 cases. Pauri district saw the sharpest percentage jump, with pendency rising by 52% from 7,071 to 10,777 cases. Tehri district registered a 9% increase, from 3,170 to 3,467 cases. Conversely, Udham Singh Nagar district recorded a 3% drop in pending cases, from 68,785 to 66,577. Uttarkashi district posted the most significant reduction, cutting its backlog by 50% from 2,711 to 1,364 cases.
Pahalgam terror attack: 77 Pakistani Hindus barred from undertaking Uttarakhand Chardham yatra
DEHRADUN: The hopes of 77 Pakistani Hindu pilgrims who had registered for Uttarakhand's world-famous Chardham Yatra, set to begin on April 30, have been dashed. Authorities have reportedly imposed a ban on Pakistani nationals undertaking the pilgrimage this year. The decision is understood to be a direct consequence of the altered security situation following a recent terrorist attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Sources within the Uttarakhand Tourism Department's Yatra Division confirmed that besides Pakistan, registrations for this year's pilgrimage have also been received from the United States, Nepal, and Malaysia, among other countries. These three nations reportedly accounted for the highest number of foreign registrations this time. Providing details on the overall registration figures, Pradeep Chauhan of the Yatra Registration Division told TNIE, For the Chardham Yatra, which starts from April 30, online registrations have exceeded 21 lakh, he stated. Among these, 24,729 foreign nationals have registered to visit, including 77 from Pakistan. The situation for the Pakistani registrants is complicated by heightened tensions following a terrorist attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam attack. The attack has sparked widespread outrage across the country. In response, the Central Government has reportedly taken strict measures, including a decision to halt the issuance of visas to individuals arriving from Pakistan and a directive for Pakistani nationals currently residing in India to return within 48 hours. According to the government sources, as many as 250 Pakistani nationals have been identified as residing in Uttarakhand across districts including Dehradun, Haridwar, and Nainital, amidst recent tightening of visa regulations following security concerns. According to Director General of Police, Deepam Seth, a significant majority of these individuals are predominantly Pakistani Hindu citizens holding long-term visas. Out of these, 247 have arrived on long-term visas and are mostly Pakistani Hindu citizens, stated DGP Deepam Seth. Separately, action has been taken regarding the three Pakistani nationals on short-term visas. Two from Dehradun have already been sent back, while the third individual identified in Haridwar was repatriated on Saturday. The developments come in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which led to a high alert being sounded across Uttarakhand, a state bordering China and Nepal. Instructions were also issued to monitor Pakistani nationals residing within the state. Adding to the heightened security measures, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday issued comprehensive guidelines to all states concerning visas for Pakistani citizens. Following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's instructions, Additional Secretary Home Nivedita Kukreti issued a formal letter to top officials, including the DGP and district magistrates. The letter states that visa services for Pakistani citizens are suspended with immediate effect due to the Pahalgam incident. Valid visas for Pakistani nationals, except for specific categories, will be cancelled from April 27. Medical visas will remain valid until April 29.
DEHRADUN: In a blow to Uttarakhands two-decade-long quest for a permanent capital, the state government has decided to lift the freeze zone designation from land earmarked for the Assembly and Secretariat, effectively shelving the 2023 master plan aimed at establishing a fixed seat of governance. Housing Secretary R. Meenakshi Sundaram confirmed the development, stating, A proposal for this will be prepared and brought before the Cabinet. The state has held Assembly sessions alternately in the temporary capital Dehradun and the summer capital Gairsain for 25 years. The freeze zone, intended to block development in areas reserved for key government infrastructure, was imposed in March 2023. A notification was issued by the Town and Country Planning Department, allowing five months to draft a Master Plan. However, more than two years later, the plan has not materialised. A government spokesperson said, Despite the stipulated five-month period, the Master Plan could not be finalised even after two years. The freeze had halted construction and development across a large stretch, from Raipur to Thano Road in the north, the main Haridwar Road in the south, east of the drain to Haridwar Road in the west (excluding the Ordnance Factory boundary), and from Bhopal Pani to Barasi Ground and Kali Mati village boundary in the east. Sources indicated that the Assembly and Secretariat proposal failed due to administrative inertia and practical hurdles. Adding to the delay, the land identified for the Assembly did not get final clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. Although in-principle approval had been granted, the state government delayed submitting required details, leading to the approval being revoked. Local pressure also played a role in the government's decision to revoke the freeze. Shantanu, a resident of the affected zone, said, For two years, people in villages like Balawala, Nakraunda, Nathuwawala, Gullarghati, Harrawala, Kuanwala, and Ranjhawala have been unable to carry out construction on their own land, despite owning it. He added that he had appealed directly to the Chief Minister to lift the freeze. Environmental concerns further complicated the project. Environmentalist Dev Raghavendra told TNIE, The state government had previously decided to cut 2,155 trees for the proposed assembly building in Raipurs Bhopalpani area. The building was planned within approximately 60 hectares of reserved forest in Bhopalpani, which could have had a very adverse impact on the environment. The lifting of the freeze zone is now expected to offer relief to affected residents, but it also marks a major retreat from the states longstanding ambition to finalise a permanent capital.
Court acquits Jitendra Tyagi aka Wasim Rizvi in hate speech case
A Haridwar court has acquitted Jitendra Tyagi, formerly known as Wasim Rizvi, in the 2021 Dharam Sansad hate speech case. He has been acquitted on the grounds of benefit of doubt. The verdict was delivered by Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Avinash Kumar Srivastava on April 16. Background of the case The controversy stemmed from a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Uttarakhand MPs sanction zero new projects, hundreds stalled from previous term
DEHRADUN: As per a Right to Information (RTI) disclosure, data reveals that none of the five MPs elected in the 18th Lok Sabha in 2024 have sanctioned any work from their allocated MPLADS funds as of December 2024. This highlights a significant lapse in the utilisation of the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) funds by Uttarakhand's Lok Sabha MPs. Adding to the concern, former MPs from the 17th Lok Sabha tenure have managed to spend only 58 per cent of their allocated funds by the same date, with a striking 795 sanctioned projects yet to even begin. The information was obtained by RTI activist Nadeemuddin from the office of the Rural Development Commissioner, Uttarakhand, the nodal department for MPLADS. Citing the information received, Nadeemuddin confirmed, None of the MPs from the 18th Lok Sabha have sanctioned any work by December 2024. The data for the 17th Lok Sabha shows a total of 5782 works were sanctioned. By December 2024, only 3517 of these were completed, 1470 were ongoing, and 795 had not commenced. Sharing specific constituency details from the previous term of the MPs with TNIE, Nadeemuddin revealed, The former Almora MP, Ajay Tamta, utilised 69% of his funds, with 36 out of 1,763 sanctioned works remaining unstarted. In Haridwar, the situation is also concerning; current MP Trivendra Singh Rawat has sanctioned no work from his available Rs 5 crore allocation. Former Haridwar MP Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal spent only 50 per cent of his funds, with 195 out of 355 works still in progress. Pauri MP Anil Baluni has also not sanctioned any work from his available Rs 5 crore fund for the current term. His predecessor, former MP Tirath Singh Rawat, saw only 38 per cent of his funds spent, leaving a significant 450 out of 986 sanctioned works unstarted. Tehri MP Rajya Laxmi Shah, re-elected in 2024, has not sanctioned any work from her current Rs 5 crore allocation, while 68 per cent of her previous term's fund was spent, with 307 works from 2397 unstarted. Similarly, Nainital MP Ajay Bhatt, also re-elected, has sanctioned no work from his current Rs 5 crore fund; in his previous term, 64 per cent of his funds were spent, with 2 out of 371 works unstarted.
Hero MotoCorp Halts Production For Three Days At Four Plants
Hero MotoCorp has halted production at its plants in Dharuhera, Gurugram, Haridwar and Neemrana to navigate a short-term supply agreement.
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Honored by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Mahamanch for Implementing UCC in Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was honored by the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Mahamanch at a program held in Haridwar for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand's demographic shift: Migration threatens hill region's political clout
DEHRADUN: A stark reality is unfolding in Uttarakhand, where a significant demographic shift is underway. The state's nine mountainous districts are witnessing a rapid exodus of people, while its four plains districts - Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital - are grappling with an unexpected surge in population growth. This imbalance is affecting not only the social and economic fabric but also poses a threat to the political representation and existence of the mountainous regions. If no concrete measures are taken to stem this migration before the next delimitation, the political existence of the mountains will be weakened, warns Anoop Nautiyal, an activist and founder of Social Development for Communities (SDC). In the wake of five South Indian Chief Ministers uniting over delimitation, the issue is also gaining traction in Uttarakhand. While the Delimitation Commission is yet to be formed in the state and the census is pending, indicating time before action, unlike South India, Uttarakhand's concerns stem from its own unique demographic shift internal migration. The population is rapidly migrating from the nine hill districts that formed the basis of the concept of a hill state. Concurrently, the population in the state's four plain districts is increasing at the same rate, highlighted Anoop Nautiyal, founder of SDC, in a comparative analysis shared with TNIE. He further emphasized, Election Commission voter lists corroborate these facts. Voter numbers have increased much more rapidly in the plain districts compared to the hills. This demographic trend is reportedly a major concern for political figures deemed influential in the hill state's interests. This migration pattern raises serious questions about political representation and the future voice of the hill regions, remarked Jai Singh Rawat, a historian and analyst on the subject, while speaking to TNIE. According to official sources, In 2018, the Migration Commission reported that over five lakh people had migrated from Uttarakhand. Of these, more than three lakh people had temporarily left their homes in search of work or due to a lack of basic facilities. Official sources added, Since then, the state government has been undertaking measures to curb migration and promote reverse migration. According to the Election Commission's records, the first assembly elections in 2002 saw a total of 5,270,375 voters. Of these, a majority, numbering 3,779,523, resided in the four plains districts of Dehradun, Nainital, Udham Singh Nagar, and Haridwar. This constituted 52.7 percent of the total electorate. In contrast, the nine hill districts accounted for 2,490,852 voters, or 47.3 percent of the total. At the time, the difference in voter share between the plains and hill districts was a marginal 5.4 percent. However, this gap has widened considerably over the years. The Election Commission data shows a consistent increase in the plains districts' share of the voter base. By 2012, the total number of voters had risen to 6,377,330. This figure further jumped to 8,266,644 in 2022. In the decade between 2012 and 2022, the electorate swelled by 1,889,314, marking a significant 31 percent increase in voter numbers, stated a source within the Election Commission. Delving deeper into the regional distribution, the data reveals a pronounced trend. In 2012, the four plains districts were home to 3,658,842 voters, representing 57.4 percent of the state's total electorate. By 2022, this number had surged to 5,010,881, now accounting for 60.6 percent of the total voters. Over the span of two decades, the plains districts have witnessed an addition of 1,352,039 voters, a staggering 72 percent growth in their voter base, the source added.
IRCTC pilgrim special towards Haridwar-Rishikesh-Vaishnodevi-Amritsar-Anandpur on April 23
15 prisoners at Haridwar district jail test HIV positive
Haridwar: Fifteen inmates of the Haridwar district jail have tested HIV positive, prison authorities said. More than 1,000 inmates are lodged in the prison. Senior Jail Superintendent Manoj Kumar Arya said prisoners were examined at a health camp organised inside the jail on World Health Day on April 7 and 15 of them tested HIV Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Video: Elephant Strolls Through Haridwar Market, Steals Flour And Runs Away
An elephant was seen wandering through the streets of Bahadrabad village near Haridwar in Uttarakhand.
Crackdown on Madrasas: 84 Islamic Schools Shut in Uttarakhand
Muslim Community Condemns Targeted Action Dehradun: The BJP-led Uttarakhand government has shut down 84 madrasas, triggering protests and accusations of discrimination. The closures primarily affected Muslim-majority districts 43 in Dehradun, 9 in Udham Singh Nagar, and 31 in Haridwar and Nainital. Governments Justification & Community Backlash Officials claim the move ensures legal compliance, but critics [] The post Crackdown on Madrasas: 84 Islamic Schools Shut in Uttarakhand first appeared on .
Unrelated Video of Deers on Road Viral as One From Kancha Gachibowli, Hyderabad
This old 2020 video was shot in Haridwar and is not related to the Kanchi Ganchabowli area in Hyderabad.
544 accident-prone spots identified for Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: With the Char Dham Yatra set to begin later this month, the authorities concerned in Uttarakhand have identified 544 accident-prone spots along the routes of pilgrimage across four districts. In view of this, the transport headquarters has issued a letter to the National Highways Authority of India, Border Roads Organisation and the Public Works Department, urging immediate action in these areas and requesting a report on the measures taken. In a bid to enhance safety and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for the Yatra, government sources reveal, road safety committees in Dehradun, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts have been directed to conduct surveys. According to these committees, a total of 544 accident-prone areas have been identified that require immediate attention. The report highlights that there are 38 such areas in Haridwar, 65 in Chamoli, 297 in Tehri and 144 in Dehraduns Vikas Nagar and Rishikesh regions. Sources indicate that the safety measures recommended for these routes include traffic calming interventions, rumble strips, informational signage, pothole repairs, chevron boards, crash barriers, road markings, reflectors, the removal of debris along the roads and addressing unauthorised median openings & blind curves. In a notable first, this years Char Dham travel routes have been divided into 15 super zones, 41 zones, and 137 sectors. Speaking to this daily, Dehradun Traffic SP Lokjeet Singh stated, Each sector will cover an area of 10 kilometres. Police personnel will be on patrol 24 hours a day, ensuring safety and order. He added, Over six thousand police officers and staff will be deployed to manage security and traffic throughout the pilgrimage route. Notably, registrations for the Yatra have now surpassed an impressive 12.5 lakh. Yogendra Gangwar, the nodal officer from the Uttarakhand Tourism Department overseeing Char Dham yatra registrations, told TNIE, We have recorded 3,674 registrations for Kedarnath, 3,045 for Badrinath, 1,918 for Yamunotri and 2,105 for Gangotri from foreign visitors. The online registration process, which requires Aadhaar verification, began on March 20.
Haridwar to close all meat shops in the city
Authorities in Haridwar are relocating all butcher shops outside municipal limits. This follows a municipal corporation resolution from last year. Currently, around 100 butcher shops operate in the area, with only a few holding valid licences. The move aims to improve sanitation and control the stray dog menace. Illegal shops will be sealed.
Haridwar to be butcher-free, meat shops to exit city limits
Authorities in Haridwar are relocating all butcher shops outside municipal limits to improve sanitation and control stray dogs. Around 100 shops, mostly in Jwalapur and Jagjeetpur, will be affected. Validly licensed shops will move to a new site in Sarai village while illegal ones will be sealed. Residents have long complained about the poor hygiene of these shops.
Buckwheat flour food poisoning cases surge to 337 amid Navratri festivities in Dehradun
DEHRADUN: Health authorities in Dehradun are on high alert as the number of patients suffering from consuming contaminated buckwheat flour (Kuttu aata) has surged to 335 across the city. Among them, 227 patients have been hospitalized due to their severe conditions. The situation has escalated quickly, with 70 patients currently admitted at Doon Hospital, a hospital spokesperson reported. The sudden influx of patients has put immense pressure on local healthcare facilities, forcing some hospitals to accommodate two patients per bed. As of Monday evening, 58 patients have been discharged after receiving treatment, while the remaining individuals continue to receive care. According to reports, the Doon Medical College has witnessed the highest influx of patients amid the ongoing health crisis. Following this, individuals have also sought treatment at Coronation Hospital and various other private hospitals in the district. As per data released by health department, by Monday evening at 7 PM, a total of 120 patients had arrived at Doon Medical College. Out of these, 70 patients are still admitted and receiving care, a hospital spokesperson confirmed. Additionally, Coronation Hospital has reported 118 patients, while private hospitals collectively treated a total of 97 individuals. Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh visited patients hospitalized due to the consumption of toxic buckwheat flour. During his visit, he instructed the doctors to ensure the provision of quality healthcare services to the affected individuals. This incident is quite sensitive, Dr. Rajesh remarked. Speaking with TNIE , Rajesh said, Instructions have been issued to launch a campaign to test the buckwheat flour. Raids and sampling will commence across the state. A thorough investigation will also be conducted to examine what quality control measures are employed from the producers to the market and during the grinding process to convert the seeds into flour. According to data from the Health Department, in the past five years, 600 individuals in Uttarakhand have fallen ill after consuming buckwheat flour. Fortunately, all patients recovered after treatment, and there were no fatalities reported. Notably, in October 2020, 115 people in Roorkee became ill after eating buckwheat flour. In Haridwar, 145 cases of illness related to buckwheat flour consumption were recorded over the past five years, including 20 cases in 2023 and 125 cases in 2022. Additionally, in Rudrapur, US Nagar, nine individuals fell ill in 2021 after consuming the flour. On April 16, 2024, during the 'Kanya Poojan' festival, three people in Kichha reported health issues after eating buckwheat flour. Moreover, on Monday, besides 316 cases in Dehradun, 12 individuals in Laksar also fell ill due to buckwheat flour consumption.
Uttarakhand CM Dhami announces plan to rename 15 regions known by Mughal-era names
DEHRADUN: Following the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code and anti-conversion laws, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced plans to rename 15 regions known by Mughal-era names. This decision includes the renaming of one assembly constituency and a municipal council. Speaking about the changes, Dhami emphasized that the renaming of various locations in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar reflects public sentiment and aligns with Indian culture and heritage. The changes will inspire people to contribute to the preservation of our Indian culture and honor the great personalities who have shaped it, he stated. This announcement comes in the wake of rising tensions between Haridwar MP Trivendra Singh Rawat and state bureaucrats, which had escalated over an offensive comment made by Rawat regarding a state official. The situation had sparked considerable anger among IAS officers in the state. Following Rawat's controversial remarks, the opposition Congress party also voiced strong reactions. In the wake of comments made by MP Trivendra Singh Rawat regarding an IAS officer, the Uttarakhand IAS Association has issued a resolution, announcing plans to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister. On Saturday, Rawat refrained from commenting on a statement made by the state's mining secretary, who had denied the MP's allegations of illegal mining raised during a session in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. In a dramatic turn of phrase reminiscent of a film dialogue, Rawat stated, Sher kabhi kuttey ka sheekar nhi karta. (A lion doesnt hunt dogs.) During his address in Parliament on Thursday, Rawat, who represents Haridwar, highlighted what he described as a troubling matter in his home state. He asserted, In Uttarakhands Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital, illegal mining is becoming rampant at night. That same evening, in an apparent effort to counter the allegations, the state government released a video featuring Mining Secretary Brijesh Sant, who categorically denied the claims made by Rawat. Garima Mhara Dasoani, the chief spokesperson for the Congress party in the state, has expressed sharp criticism of the Dhami governments recent decision regarding the renaming of certain areas. The government should be more concerned about social harmony in the regions rather than changing their names. Instead of focusing on name changes, the government should pay more attention to altering its working style and make efforts in that direction, she stated. In her remarks, Garima also pointed out that Haridwar MP Rawat has held a mirror to his own party, demonstrating how the state government is functioning. Rawat's comments reflect the reality of the government's operations, she added, emphasizing the need for accountability and effective governance.
Uttarakhand CM Announces Renaming of 11 Places After Hindu Deities, Icons
Pushkar Singh Dhami unveils renaming of locations across Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar, honoring prominent figures from Indian culture and BJP-RSS leaders
Aurangzebpur now Shivaji Nagar as 11 places renamed in Uttarkhand
Dehradun: In a significant move to pay tribute to prominent figures who contributed to preserving Indias rich cultural legacy, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced the renaming of various locations in the districts of Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar. The Chief Minister emphasised that the renaming process reflects public sentiment while Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Aurangzebpur to be renamed Shivaji Nagar, says Uttarakhand CM Dhami
Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the renaming of 13 areas and two roads in four districts to reflect Indian culture and heritage. The changes include new names in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar, inspired by prominent Indian figures.
Uttarakhand renames 18 places located in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, Udham Singh Nagar districts
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami says the move is to respect public sentiment and preserve Indian culture and heritage
Bus carrying 50 yatris to Haridwar flagged off
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 27: In a remarkable initiative taken by the Jammu Yatri Bhawan Trust to facilitate spiritual fulfillment, this time on the request made by Satish Sharma, Cabinet Minister, Trust has facilitated a group of devotees for taking dip in Holy Ganga Maiya ji in Haridwar. The Jammu Yatri Bhawan Trust has made their boarding and lodging besides food arrangements in its Haridwar Bhawan and in addition also arranged Yoga Shivir Camp, said Pawan Kumar Shastri, President of [] The post Bus carrying 50 yatris to Haridwar flagged off appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pawan Kumar Shastri flagging off bus to Haridwar on Thursday.
Pawan Kumar Shastri flagging off bus to Haridwar on Thursday. The post Pawan Kumar Shastri flagging off bus to Haridwar on Thursday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four Fraudsters Pose As Haridwar Akhara Priests At Delhi Aerocity, Flee With Gold Ring
Delhi Police arrested four individuals posing as head priests from Haridwar Akhara for cheating Gagan Jain out of his gold ring. They were identified through CCTV footage
Two Killed as Sand-Laden Dumper Rams Car at Lachhiwala Toll Plaza
Accident on Haridwar-Dehradun Road leaves car mangled; investigation underway
J&K Veteran Cricket team flagged off for North Zone Tourney
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 21: The J&K Veteran Cricket Team was flagged off by DIG of the Jammu-Kathua-Samba Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma for North Zone Tournament, set to take place in Haridwar. Sharma was joined by Gaurav Gupta, spokesperson BJP, K S Jamwal, Senior Vice President, and Vivek Suri, General Secretary of the Veteran Cricket Association of J&K. The tournament is being organized by the Veteran Cricket Association of Uttarakhand under the aegis of the Board for Veteran Cricket [] The post J&K Veteran Cricket team flagged off for North Zone Tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chhattisgarh Waqf Board reschedules Friday prayers on Holi, issues directives
The Chhattisgarh Waqf Board has rescheduled Friday prayers in mosques from 12:30 PM-1:00 PM to 2:00 PM-3:00 PM on March 14 due to Holi celebrations coinciding with the prayer time. Similar adjustments are made in Haridwar and Gorakhpur to maintain peace during religious observances, with officials emphasizing community cooperation and law enforcement readiness.
Conservation of medicinal plants underscored
Haridwar: A two-day event on the topic regional training for development of agricultural entrepreneurship in cultivation of medicinal plants, sponsored by the National Medicinal Plants Board Scheme under the AYUSH ministry, was recently held at Patanjali Research Foundation in Haridwar. At the programme, emphasis was laid on conservation of medicinal plants, plantation and the protection []
Celebrating a Decade of Aludecor Sand & Rustic Series: Where Nature Meets Design
It all started on the peaceful shores of the Ganga in Haridwara place that holds an almost mystical charm. Watching the golden sands glisten in the evening light, we were struck by an idea: What if we could capture this natural beauty in architectural form using ACP Sheets?
Bajrang Dal Workers Barge Into Haridwar College Over Iftar Party
Bajrang Dal workers on Saturday stormed the Rishikul Ayurvedic College here in protest against some Muslim students organising an Iftar party on the campus and inviting outsiders to it.
Bajrang Dal storms Haridwar college over Iftar party, cries Islamic Jihad
HARIDWAR: Bajrang Dal workers on Saturday stormed the Rishikul Ayurvedic College here in protest against some Muslim students organising an Iftar party on the campus and inviting outsiders to it. Police placated the right-wing workers, who left but not before creating a ruckus and warning of a more aggressive agitation if no action was taken in the matter within three days. On Friday, some Muslim students reportedly organised an Iftar party on the college campus. Bajrang Dal office bearer Amit Kumar alleged that the party had been organised in the Hindu religious city as part of a conspiracy to bring outsiders to the college campus. Rishikul Ayurvedic College has historical importance. This medical college was established under Rishikul Vidyapeeth, established by Pandit Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya. Students from all over the country come here to get medical education, the Bajrang Dal functionary said. Organising any such event by non-Hindus in the Haridwar area is already prohibited under the Municipal Corporation bylaws, he claimed. A conspiracy is being hatched in the religious city under Islamic Jihad. If the management does not initiate steps for the expulsion of the guilty students within three days, then the Bajrang Dal will be forced to escalate the protest, Kumar warned. Rishikul Ayurvedic College Director DC Singh on Friday that he received a complaint about some students having a party on campus without getting permission from the administration. Some students had brought food items there. We went and stopped the party, Singh said. A committee of college teachers has been formed to investigate the matter and submit a report, he said.
'Conspiracy under Islamic Jihad': Bajrang Dal storms Haridwar college over Iftar party
Bajrang Dal protested at Rishikul Ayurvedic College in Haridwar against an Iftar party organized by Muslim students, alleging it to be part of an 'Islamic Jihad' conspiracy in the religious city. The college administration is investigating the incident, with the Bajrang Dal demanding action within three days or threatening to escalate the protest.
Yoga Guru, Baba Ramdev, Union Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan along with others during foundation day celebration of University of Patanjali in Haridwar. The post Yoga Guru, Baba Ramdev, Union Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan along with others during foundation day celebration of University of Patanjali in Haridwar. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Uttarakhand: 3 arrested after Haridwar shooting incident
Three individuals were apprehended in Haridwar's Landaura area after a shooting incident left one person dead and another injured. Identified as Ankush, Abhishek, and Prashant, the suspects were caught following a police operation. The police recovered a country-made pistol and live cartridges. The shooting occurred over a financial dispute, and further investigation is underway.
On Maha Shivratri, Devotees Offer Special Prayers And Take A Holy Dip At Har Ki Pauri | N18S
On Maha Shivratri, devotees offer special prayers and take a holy dip at Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, and in the Godavari River, Nashik, seeking Mahadevs divine blessings n18oc_shortsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
INTERVIEW | AI played key role in managing 63 crore Mahakumbh crowd: Prayagraj ADG
Managing a crowd of over 1.5 to 2 crore on a daily basis for a span of 45 days sounds a daunting task comprising intricate challenges for law enforcement agencies and the administration. Undeniably one of the largest congregations of humanity on earth, the Mahakumbh, which is nearing its finale on Mahashivratri on Wednesday, leaves behind a trail of sweet and bitter experiences. Bhanu Bhaskar, ADG, Prayagraj Zone, at the helm of affairs, shares his insights into crowd management and other aspects of the religious festival while talking to TNIE's Namita Bajpai. Excerpts: Did the administration really expect crowds of this magnitude at the Mahakumbh? The previous trends and historical data available suggested that after the fourth snan, which is the Basant Panchmi Snan, there is a drop in crowd levels in the Kumbh and Mahakumbh. And then after the fifth and the sixth snan, there is another discernible drop in the magnitude of the crowd. But this time, there was an enhanced surge. So we had a consistent flow of pilgrims between 1.5 crore to two crore every day. As the state government had estimated a footfall of 40-odd crore during the entire Mela span, what was the pre-Mela strategy chalked out for crowd management of the Mahakumbh? So the pre-Mela strategy depends upon quite a few things. One was getting the inputs about the incoming crowds and the pace at which the crowd is coming up. So there was a regular feedback mechanism and regular inputs from all the verticals like the roads and the transport and the toll plazas and the railways. These are the regular modes of transport which people use to come to the mela. There was a regular input mechanism. That input mechanism was then used to take decisions regarding the crowd management strategy. Moreover, there were various management strategies employed which included the facilitation of the crowds, the diversion of the crowds and others. Despite such strategies already in place, what went wrong on Mauni Amavasya, January 29, when the unfortunate stampede happened claiming so many lives? What were the major lapses? It was extremely unfortunate because we had been working to avert any such tragedy for over the last two years. Before January 29, there were a lot of positive stories about Mahakumbh which were the result of our hard work of two years. However, the unfortunate and painful incident was all because of the massive crowd pressure. However, on this particular question there's a judicial commission which is looking into it. So, I would not like to share my views because I have to give my views before the judicial commission. After the Mauni Amavasya stampede, what were the special measures taken by the administration for succeeding snans so as to avert the recurrence of a mishap? There was a review meeting convened by the state Chief Secretary and Director General of Police immediately on January 30. The joint team of Chief Secretary and the DGP visited the mela and the areas where the possible weaknesses had developed and addressed them. It was followed by a high-level meeting by the Chief Minister on the same day itself. The CM also visited the mishap site on the Mela premises. After the visit of the CM, the Chief Secretary and the DGP, we reviewed the areas where we were doing better and also those areas where we needed to improve. We picked up from where we had left and started preparing for the next snan. And then all the CCTV cameras were analyzed and the strong points were enhanced and the gaps were filled up because there was a huge crowd surge that was coming up. So all the gaps were re-looked into and additional police and administrative personnel were posted to keep a close watch of the crowd to regulate its movement. What has been the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as it was a highly-publicized tool which was being used for the first time for crowd management and monitoring other aspects related to the mela? It was very, very useful. Basically, Artificial Intelligence was used for the first time in the world for crowd management because the existing software was not aware of how to give input. So, we had been machine learning these softwares for over six months and testing them on Dussehra, Diwali and other such occasions when the crowd surges in respectable numbers at various specific places. Using all those inputs, we machine-learned the existing software so as to get credible inputs. The inputs thus received were very, very useful over a period of time. They could give us the density mapping and other parameters including the rate at which the crowd was surging. Bhanu Bhaskar, ADG, Prayagraj Zone How far has this entire system been helpful in managing pilgrims who get lost and separated from their kin in such congregations? We have 10 lost and found centres which also use Artificial Intelligence along with the existing system. They included trained psychologists and trained psychiatrists because the trauma, which the children and women face under such circumstances after getting separated from the families, is immense. So in order to make them relax, the measures were taken. Plus facial recognition technology was used to a great extent so that, in case the person is lost, his/her name and face is flashed across all the 10 centres and other places to identify the location. The results of this use of technology have been exceedingly positive and encouraging. There's an input result of close to 95 per cent. And the remaining also, we are working on it. Thus, the facial recognition technology along with Artificial Intelligence coupled with picking up the faces from the images and the photographs and then matching it with the real faces was a cutting-edge technology which was used to reunite the persons lost in the melee with their families. Meanwhile, most of these technologies are present, but they were machine-learned and customized to meet the requirements of the present times. Therefore, the success rate has been very encouraging. Moreover, the results which we have carried from here will now be passed on to the other three Kumbh Mela venues including Nasik, Ujjain and Haridwar, so that they can also learn from our experience and implement the same technology for better management of things. Even their team is here and they have been working with us hands on for the last two months so that they can also learn from our experience. The number of devotees thronging the Mela has breached the 63-crore mark against an estimation of 40 crore. What technique is being used to determine the precise number of devotees thronging the Mela and taking holy dip on a particular day? A first of its kind AI-enabled monitoring of crowd density per square metre, inflow and outflow of pilgrims and ground assessment is enabling the authorities to fetch the figure of devotees visiting the Mela daily. There is an Integrated Control and Command Centre (ICCC) where multiple teams of police personnel, senior IPS officials, and experts are deputed and they are keeping a close watch on every alert. The alerts keep popping out on the screens in the ICCC so the authorities on the ground are directed accordingly to address a particular situation at a particular place so as to avert any untoward incident, check barricade breaches and even crime. The 4000-acre Mela ground has around 2,750 close-circuit cameras monitoring the movement of the crowd and other activities. Of those 2750 CCTV, about 250 are AI-enabled, feeding information to the Integrated Control and Command Centre (ICCC) of the Mela empowering the authorities with unique and real-time insights into crowd density per square metre at the bathing ghats, footfall in the Mela premises per minute, parking status of vehicles, crowd accumulation at key junctions and the need to issue alerts based on pre-set danger thresholds. The screens at ICCC continuously throw up images of ghats, fetching data charts and real time information on population density. The inputs are also there about people entering and leaving ghats from over half a dozen entry and exit points. Teams collate data from different sources including railways, road and transport and highways to make the accurate assessments. What were the tools used to manage the traffic as there were reports of huge vehicular pressure in and around Prayagraj resulting in massive jams in the Sangam city, adjoining districts and on national highways? First of all, I would greet the people of Prayagraj for extending immense cooperation in implementing the traffic plan laid out for Mahakumbh. Despite heavy vehicular flow, we could maintain the traffic movement effectively. Traffic facilitation has become possible because the vehicular movement is being monitored regularly in all the districts adjoining Prayagraj along with Lucknow zone, Kanpur zone and Varanasi zone. Moreover, the district magistrates of all the adjoining districts are managing not only the incoming crowds but also the vehicular traffic on the ground themselves. So all the districts touching Prayagraj more or less witnessed seamless traffic movement all this long. Monitoring through drones is also being done regularly. However, there have been bits of misleading information about long traffic jams in and around Prayagraj on social media. I would urge everyone to follow information disseminated by the official social media handles of the UP government, UP Police department and Mela authorities in order to avoid the traffic jams which are caused more by misinformation.
In Push For BJP's Key Poll Plank, Delhi Chief Minister's Day 1 Yamuna 'Aarti'
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her ministers, hours after taking oath, made a beeline for Yamuna at Vasudev Ghat, where they are participating in the river aarti -inspired by the daily evening ceremony at the ghats of Ganga at Haridwar and Va
Bryan Johnson Claims Baba Ramdev Blocked Him For Commenting On Anti-Aging Post; Here's What He Said
Johnson commented on pollution levels in Haridwar. US millionaire and anti-aging fanatic Bryan Johnson claims that Yoga guru Ramdev blocked him on X after the former commented on the latter's post.
Anti-Ageing Millionaire Bryan Johnson Posts He Was Blocked By Ramdev Because...
In response to Ramdev's video, Bryan Johnson pointed out that the air quality in Haridwar.
Millionaire Bryan Johnson Posts He Was Blocked By Ramdev Because...
In response to Ramdev's video, Bryan Johnson pointed out that the air quality in Haridwar.
Bryan Johnson says Ramdev blocked him on X after comment on post regarding anti-ageing claims
US millionaire Bryan Johnson has alleged that Yoga Guru and Patanjali founder Ramdev blocked him on X after he dismissed his anti-ageing claims. The exchange began after Johnson commented on a video posted by Ramdev, in which he was seen running alongside a horse while promoting Patanjali's 'Swarna Shilajit' and 'Immunogrit Gold'. Ramdev claimed the products could boost immunity, enhance stamina, and slow down ageing. Johnson, however, was unconvinced and responded by highlighting Haridwars poor air quality, stating that simply breathing there increased the risk of heart and lung diseases. Ramdev's post on X, written in Hindi, promoted Patanjalis supplements with the claim: Ghode ki tarah tez daudne ki taakat, strong immunity, anti-aging aur power chahiye toh Swarna Shilajit avam Immunogrit Gold khaaiye (If you want to run like a horse, have strong immunity, anti-ageing benefits, and power, then consume Swarna Shilajit and Immunogrit Gold). US millionaire Bryan Johnson responded to the post by once again highlighting concerns over air quality in India. Air quality in Haridwar right now is PM 2.5 36 g/m which is equal to smoking 1.6 cigarettes a day, he wrote. This raises risks of heart disease by 4050%, lung cancer by 3x, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and early death (57 years lost), Johnson claimed. Minutes later, the entrepreneur tweeted saying he had been blocked by Ramdev. I replied with this comment and he hid it and blocked me: Air quality in Haridwar right now is PM. 36 g/m which is equal to smoking 1.6 cigarettes a day. This raises risks of heart disease by 4050%, lung cancer by 3x, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and early death pic.twitter.com/z99RZDjXar Bryan Johnson /dd (@bryan_johnson) February 19, 2025 Johnson made headlines weeks ago when he abruptly left Nikhil Kamaths podcast, citing Indias air pollution. Since then, he has repeatedly raised concerns over the countrys worsening air quality. The millionaire, who invests millions in his strict anti-ageing regime, claimed that his brief stay in India caused multiple health issues due to the poor air quality. Explaining his decision to exit the podcast, Johnson later stated, When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality. Nikhil Kamath was a gracious host, and we were having a great time. The problem was that the room we were in circulated outside air, which made the air purifier I'd brought with me ineffective. Why Bryan Johnson is right on Indias air quality
Bryan Johnson alleges Baba Ramdev blocked him for commenting on his Shilajit viral video
Baba Ramdev's video of him running alongside a horse led to a dispute with anti-ageing businessman Bryan Johnson over India's air quality. In response to Johnson's comments about the harmful effects of pollution in Haridwar, Ramdev blocked him on social media.
Why Delhi is sitting on a seismic timebomb with Haridwar and Moradabad connection
A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi-NCR early Monday, marking the first significant seismic activity directly within Delhi in 295 years. The epicenter was in New Delhi at a depth of five kilometers, with tremors felt at 5:36 am. Fortunately, no damage or injuries were reported. Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, making it vulnerable to future earthquakes.
New Delhi stampede: Rail Bhavan gets into huddle
NEW DELHI: Under pressure from various quarters, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday held a series of meeting at the Rail Bhavan to take stock of the safety measures during heavy passenger rush. Vaishnaw also met and briefed Home Minister Amit Shah about the stampede at the New Delhi railway station. Railways announced the names of two high administrative group officials, who will be part of the inquiry committee constituted to probe the stampede at the New Delhi Railway station. Narsingh Deo, Principal Chief Commercial Manager, Northern Railway, and Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Security Commissioner, Northern Railway, are the members of the committee, the railways said. Railways directed all zones to remain on maximum alert, ensuring the safety of passengers during seasons of heavy footfall, especially in stations dealing with high numbers of passengers traveling to the Maha Kumbh. Sources said nearly 60%-70% of those attending the Kumbh are taking trains. The railway stations across Uttar Pradesh have been put on high alert following massive convergence of devotees reaching Prayagraj for holy dip at Sangam. Prayagraj and its neighbouring districts, including Ayodhya, Gonda, Varanasi, Fatehpur, Gorakhpur and Lucknow experienced huge crowd on railway stations. ADG, Railways, Prakash D has issued directives to the authorities concerned to ensure deployment of GRP personnel on all stations across the state. Heightened alert has been sounded on railway stations across Madhya Pradesh, with security being beefed, particularly at the Katni and Satna stations of the West Central Railway (WCR). There is a huge rush of devotees bound to Maha Kumbh. The rush is at its peak in Katni and Satna, the two stations on the route of long-distance trains coming from central, western and southern India to Prayagraj, police said. In Satna, in-charge IG of Rewa Saket Pandey along with administrative, health and railway officials, held a meeting on Sunday afternoon and decided to raise the number of GRP and RPF jawans up to four times at key stations. All trains towards Prayagraj from Jharkhand are overcrowded, with even people with valid reservation tickets finding it hard to board trains. According to a passenger from Hazaribagh, Premchand Prasad, who boarded the train from Koderma, trains are running without ticket collectors and RPF jawans as even they are not able to board the trains. The East Central Railway has bolstered safety measures as most passengers from Bihar are bound for Prayagraj. 'Confusing announcements triggered stampede': Delhi police say after initial probe Major stampedes across country Jan 29, 2025: 30 killed and 60 injured at Maha Kumbh July 2, 2024: 121, most of whom women, lost during a satsang by godman Bhole Baba in Hathras, UP March 31, 2023: 36 died when a well collapsed during Ram Navami at Indore temple January 1, 2022: 12 died and over a dozen injured at Vaishno Devi shrine in J&K due to heavy rush of devotees September 29, 2017: 23 dead and 36 injured in a stampede on a bridge connecting Elphinstone Road station with Parel station of Central Railway in Mumbai July 14, 2015: 27 pilgrims died and 20 injured at a bathing spot along Godavari where devotees gathered for festival in Rajahmundry, AP October 3, 2014: 32 killed and 26 injured at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, shortly after Dussehra celebrations ended October 13, 2013: 115 killed and over 100 injured during Navratri near Ratangarh temple in MPs Datia January 25, 2005: Over 340 devotees trampled to death and hundreds injured during a pilgrimage at Satara temple August 3, 2008: 162 dead, 47 hurt at Naina Devi temple in Himachals Bilaspur September 30, 2008: 250 devotees killed and 60 hurt in a stampede following rumours of a bomb at Chamunda Devi temple in Jodhpur March 4, 2010: 63 killed at Ram Janki Temple in UPs Pratapgarh where people gathered to collect clothes and food from a godman January 14, 2011: 104 Sabarimala devotees killed and over 40 injured when a jeep crashed into homebound pilgrims in Keralas Idukki November 8, 2011: 20 killed in Haridwar at Har-ki-Pauri ghat along the Ganga November 19, 2012: 20 killed and several injured as a makeshift bridge caved in, triggering a stampede during Chhath Puja at Adalat Ghat in Patna
Legal challenges emerge for Uttarakhand's UCC; court to deliberate soon
DEHRADUN: A significant legal battle is unfolding in Uttarakhand as five petitions have been filed against the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which came into effect on January 27 . Various Muslim organisations and concerned groups are contesting the law's legality, claiming it undermines their community's established personal laws. The Nainital High Court has set a hearing for all related petitions on April 1, allowing six weeks for the parties to prepare their arguments. The petitions assert that the UCC conflicts with the prevailing practices of the Muslim community, raising concerns about its implications on personal rights. In a significant pronouncement, Chief Justice G Narendar, presiding over the division bench of the High Court, urged individuals adversely affected by the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to seek judicial recourse. Individuals who believe they have been impacted by actions taken under the UCC are hereby encouraged to bring their grievances before the court, he said. Among those challenging the UCC is Mohd. Mukim, the Nainital District President of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (JUH), who, along with Tajim Ali from Haridwar, Shoaib Ahmed from Mallital Nainital, Mohammad Shah Nazar, Abdul Sattar, and Mustaqeem Hasan from Dehradun, voiced their concerns during a recent hearing. Additionally, Naeem Ahmed Qureshi, President of the Muslim Sewa Sangthan, has also filed a writ petition against the UCC. The legal fray intensified with advocate Arushi Gupta filing public interest litigation against specific provisions of the UCC. Just days earlier, Suresh Singh Negi from Bhimtal contested the UCC's regulations regarding live-in relationships, reflecting widespread discontent among various groups. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal presented compelling arguments before the bench, asserting that no provincial government possesses the authority to implement a UCC under the third entry of the legislative list. Even Article 44 does not permit any provincial government to enact such a law, Sibal contended. He further emphasised that the UCC violates fundamental rights enshrined in Articles 14, 19, 21, and 25 of the Constitution, urging the court to impose a stay on its implementation. In response, the advocate representing the Uttarakhand government opposed Sibal's request and sought additional time to file a reply. The court directed the state government to respond accordingly. The next hearing is scheduled for April 1, 2025, where Sibal intends to focus on securing a stay. Highlighting potential penalties and fines associated with the UCC, Sibal underscored the urgency for judicial intervention. The Chief Justice assured that if any case arises during this interim period, petitioners could bring it to the court's attention immediately, reiterating that anyone personally affected by the law may seek redress from the bench. Uttarakhand government ensures privacy in UCC registration
MLA Pawan Gupta and R S Pathania flagging off Udhampur-Haridwar bus service on Saturday.
MLA Pawan Gupta and R S Pathania flagging off Udhampur-Haridwar bus service on Saturday. The post MLA Pawan Gupta and R S Pathania flagging off Udhampur-Haridwar bus service on Saturday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ramnath Mishra, the head priest of Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple in Karachi, is in Prayagraj to immerse the ashes of 400 Hindus and Sikhs. He performed his son's sacred thread ceremony and plans to take the ashes to Haridwar after a ritual in Delhi. Mishra has renovated the crematorium in Karachi where he collected the ashes.
Karnatakas Kumbh Mela: Devotees take a holy dip at T.Narsipur as three-day event begins
The Kumbh Mela in Karnataka began in 1989 as the initiative of some pontiffs, to encourage the devout to take a dip at the confluence at T.Narsipur in case they could not make it to the Kumbh Melas that take place at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain or Nashik.
Over 40 crore pilgrims take dip in Mahakumbh
LUCKNOW: The ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj continues to draw an overwhelming number of devotees, with the total count surpassing 40 crore by 4 PM on Friday. The grand religious congregation has seen participation from people across India and different parts of the world, all seeking spiritual liberation and divine blessings at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati at Sangam. Among the distinguished guests who visited Mahakumbh were Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini, and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Several Bollywood personalities also graced the event. During his visit on Friday, Arif Mohammad Khan praised Indias Sanatan culture, calling it magnificent. He remarked that Mahakumbh reflected the unity of Sanatan traditions and emphasized that Indian culture teaches people to see every human being in their divine form. He further said that Mahakumbh showcases how traditions bring people together, as even strangers participate in rituals with a shared sense of devotion and unity. The chief ministers of Haryana and Gujarat also expressed their joy after taking a holy dip at Sangam, calling it a great fortune. , - - , @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/UfZyLIb4uR Nayab Saini (@NayabSainiBJP) February 6, 2025 68 Hindu devotees from Pakistan visits Mahakumbh Meanwhile, a group of 68 Hindu devotees from Sindh province in Pakistan arrived at Mahakumbh to immerse the ashes of their ancestors and experience the spiritual grandeur of the event. These devotees, who had obtained a special visa for the pilgrimage, had earlier visited Haridwar, where they performed Vedic rituals and immersed the ashes of nearly 480 ancestors. Accompanied by Mahant Ramnath Ji, they later traveled to Prayagraj, took a holy dip in the Sangam, and prayed for the salvation of their ancestors. The Pakistani devotees expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to participate in Mahakumbh, describing it as a long-cherished wish not only for themselves but also for their ancestors. They shared that the spiritual connection to Sanatan traditions and the sacred call of Mahakumbh had drawn them to Prayagraj, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration to take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam and carry its sacred water back home. The religious fervor at Mahakumbh remains high even after the three Amrit Snans Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, and Basant Panchami. Pilgrims continue to arrive in large numbers, ensuring a relentless flow of devotees seeking divine blessings. Mahakumbh 2025: Over 10 crore pilgrims took holy dip at Sangam, says UP government As the event progresses, the total footfall is expected to cross the 50 crore mark, with state authorities initially estimating the arrival of around 45 crore devotees. The sacred congregation has already witnessed visits from several top dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 5, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on February 1, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on January 27. President Droupadi Murmu is also scheduled to visit Prayagraj on February 10 to participate in rituals at Triveni Sangam. With 19 days remaining, Mahakumbh continues to be a grand spiritual spectacle, drawing millions of devotees who seek divine grace and the eternal essence of Sanatan traditions.
Ex-Husband Invites Woman To Haridwar Temple, Days Later Her Body Found In The Ditch
The woman's body was found in Haridwar after she had been missing for days, which prompted a swift investigation. After initial police inaction, her ex-husband confessed to his crime and was subsequently arrested
Devotion knows no borders: 68 Pakistani Hindu devotees attend Mahakumbh in Prayagraj
A group of 68 Pakistani devotees arrived on Wednesday, 05 th February in India from Pakistans Sindh, registering their attendance at the grand spiritual gathering of the world, the Mahakumbh 2025. The devotees took the holy dip at the holy confluence on Thursday, reflecting upon the Mahakumbh and Sanatan Dharmas significance that could draw them all over Pakistan. Reportedly, the group is staying at Shri Gurukarshnis camp in Sector 9 of the Kumbh mela city. A few members of the group are carrying the six urns of ashes of their loved ones which they desire to immerse in Ganges, Haridwar. In the Hindu religion, Haridwar is believed to be the gateway to salvation. The 68 people were somehow drawn to the divinity and spirit of the Mahakumbh, stories and regular updates they have been putting up through social media. Govind Ram Makhija, one of the group members shared, We have been hearing about the Mahakumbh from the past two to three months and had a great desire to be here. We could not stop ourselves from coming and experiencing the grandeur of the event. He also informed that last year as many as a 200 people had come from Pakistan to Prayagraj to take the holy dip in Ganges. While this time, 68 people had come for the sacred event from Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur, and Shikarpur districts of Sindh, Pakistan. 50 devotees are witnessing Mahakumbh for the first time. He further added, Its a bliss. I am very happyI do not have words to describe the experience here. We took the holy dip in the Ganga. Upon coming here, we feel proud of being part of Sanatan Dharma. Mukesh, who belongs to Ghotki province of Sindh has kind of a similar experience to share. He had come to India and the Mahakumbh for the first time. Mukesh had to say, I got a chance to explore our religion in depth. It feels very good, and Im thankful to the Indian Government for providing the visa and other facilities. Priyanka, another first-time visitor shared her sentiments, Seeing our culture here is a divine experience. I am lucky to come to India. It is an overwhelming experience to be part of this majestic event. There is not much discrimination against Hindus in Sindh province, but we are getting a chance to see our culture here, for which we are happy. The 68- member group is prepared to leave for Raipur on February 8 th , after which they will head to Haridwar. They were all praise and grateful for the government and their arrangements of Mahakumbh.
The video dates back to 2021 and shows Bel Baba of Switzerland, who walked from his country to attend the Kumbh Mela in Haridwar held back then
Hindus reach India from Pakistan with 400 urns containing ashes of relatives for immersion in Ganga
A group of Hindus from Pakistan arrived in India with nearly 400 urns for the third time since Partition to immerse the ashes in the Ganga river. The ashes will be taken to Haridwar, and the group hopes to visit Prayagraj for a holy dip at the Mahakumbh if the visas are extended.
Devotees Take A Holy Dip In River Ganga In Haridwar, On The Occasion Of Basant Panchami | N18S
Devotees Take A Holy Dip In River Ganga In Haridwar, On The Occasion Of Basant Panchami | N18S n18oc_shortsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
J&K Kalarippayattu team shines at 38th National Games
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 31: Jammu & Kashmirs Kalarippayattu athletes delivered impressive performances at the 38th National Games 2025, held at Police Line Stadium, Haridwar. Dua Mukhtar earned a Silver Medal in the High Kick (Above 5.6 Feet) event, while Aman Gupta secured a Bronze Medal in the Kaipporu event (65 to 80 kg weight category). Additionally, Parkash Singh finished fourth in the High Kick (Below 5.6 Feet) event, and Sajan Shan claimed Fifth place in the Urmivesshal event, [] The post J&K Kalarippayattu team shines at 38th National Games appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Uttarakhand netas' 'gunfight': HC takes suo motu cognisance
The Uttarakhand HC has summoned the DM and SSP of Haridwar regarding the violent Republic Day clash between independent MLA Umesh Kumar and former MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion. The court has demanded all evidence, detailed offences, and stringent measures against the accused, with firearm licenses cancelled and security provisions under review.
Gunfire incident at MLA's residence on Republic Day triggers High Court intervention in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: In a dramatic turn of events, the gunfire incident involving former MLA Pranav Singh Champion at the residence of independent MLA Umesh Kumar in the Khanpur area of Haridwar on Republic Day has escalated to the Uttarakhand High Court. The court's Winter Vacation Bench has taken suo motu cognizance of the matter, labelling the incident as detrimental to the state's image. This kind of behaviour tarnishes the reputation of our state, the bench remarked. In response to the seriousness of the situation, the court has summoned Haridwar's Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) to appear virtually for further proceedings. A verbal altercation between former MLA Pranav Singh Champion and independent MLA Umesh Kumar spiralled out of control at Kumar's residence in the Khanpur area of Haridwar on Republic Day. Reports indicate that Champion, armed and accompanied by several supporters, arrived at Kumar's residence and openly used abusive language while firing multiple rounds into the air. Prior to this escalation, tensions had already flared when Umesh Kumar confronted Champion at his residence after being verbally insulted. This kind of behaviour is unacceptable, Kumar remarked, expressing his frustration over the incident. The situation has raised serious concerns regarding safety and decorum among elected representatives in the region. Following a shooting incident, police arrested former MLA Pranav Singh Champion and later, MLA Umesh Kumar late at night. Both were presented in the Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court on Monday. Champion has been remanded to 14 days of judicial custody, while Umesh has been granted bail, officials confirmed. As part of the investigation, Haridwar police seized nine firearms from Champion and his family, revoking their licenses. Additionally, the District Magistrate of Dehradun suspended Umesh Kumar's weapon license. The incident, which unfolded in a state known for its peaceful image, compelled the High Court to take suo motu cognizance. The court summoned the SSP of Haridwar and DIG of Garhwal virtually at 2 PM. Furthermore, police officials have been instructed to present detailed information regarding the cases filed against both individuals. The court's intervention has stirred a flurry of activity within the government machinery. We have taken cognizance based on reports published in newspapers regarding the lawlessness associated with this incident, a court spokesperson stated.
Mauni Amavasya 2025: Mahakumbh to attract 8-10 crore devotees to the holy sangam on no moon day
Mauni Amavasya, the spiritual day that occurs during the new moon day in the month of Magha as per the Hindu lunar calendar. It is also known as the Maghi Amavasya. The word Mauni originates from the Sanskrit word Mauna which translates to silence. Practicing silence for spiritual discipline and inner peace along with some other rituals. The day holds immense significance, especially this year coinciding with the grand Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. Mauni Amavasya 2025 This year, the Mauni Amavasya is going to be held as always on the Amavasya Tithi. The tithi will begin from January 28, 2025 at 7:35 pm to 06:05 pm on January 29, 2025. The day shall attract positive cosmic energies for the devotees. There is an enormous presence of divine blessings that shall shower upon an individual through self-discipline, meditation and compassion. Your actions along with the positive energy will make your life fulfilling and prosperous. The significance of Mauni Amavasya Mauni Amavasya is the last Amavasya before the festival of MahaShivratri. The astrological significance of the day is that it marks the conjunction of the Sun and Moon, aligning the powerful energy of the stars. The cosmic phenomenon results in increasing the impact of the spiritual practices ideal to remove the negative Karma, attracting positivity, prosperity and harmony. The historical significance of the day marks another sacred event in the past, when Adi Rishi Rishabhdev, the ancient sage and Tirthankara in Jainism ended his Maun Vrat (vow of silence) and took bath in the holy waters of the Sangam, absorbing himself in complete devotion. Mauni Amavasya at Mahakumbh 2025 Mauni Amavasya this year, coinciding with the Mahakumbh only adds to its importance. There is a firm belief among the devotees of Hindu culture that taking a holy dip in the waters of the Ganga, Saraswati and Yamuna at the confluence at Triveni Sangam, washes away all the sins and grants them Moksha (salvation). It is also an auspicious day to offer prayers to the ancestors as the blessings received bring happiness and prosperity in life. The Mahakumbh estimates to attract as many as 8-10 crore devotees on the day of Mauni Amavasya, who will take the holy dip at the Sangam. Till now, there have been over 15 crore visitors at the event, the crowd only increasing every hour as the Mauni Amavasya is approaching. Rituals performed on Mauni Amavasya The devotees in India take a bath in sacred rivers, especially in Haridwar, Prayagraj and other spiritual places to seek forgiveness for their sins and to attain purity of soul. Many people are witnessed taking a vow of silence, practicing it for an insight within and an introspection for spiritual growth. People observe a fast throughout the day, some of them even not having any food or water. The others, eat only some specific food like kuttu, fried potatoes and sama kheer. The devotees also perform charity giving food and money to the poor or in temples or other religious institutions. As mentioned earlier, Ancestral worship hold immense significance on the day of Mauni Amavasya. People practice Pitru Tarpan which is an offering to the ancestors. Another practice common in some parts of the country is lighting a diya with mustard oil, and placing it under the peepal tree. Mauni Amavasya is the day which marks inner spiritual reflection, providing homage to the ancestors and performing charity. With the year of Mahakumbh, more and more devotees will gather to celebrate the day bathing in the sacred rivers. It is the day to completely cleanse the soul with spirituality and eternal devotion. So, by embracing silence, practicing gratitude and attracting positivity, invite the abundant to your life!
Fact-Check: Video From China Falsely Viral as Haridwar-Karnaprayag Railway Line
This visual is from China's Cili County in the Hunan Province and not Haridwar as claimed.
Dehradun Diary: Landslide blocks highway, several left stranded
Landslide blocks highway, several left stranded A sudden landslide near Khirchana on the Pithoragarh-Dharachula highway caused significant disruptions with debris and boulders blocking the road. This highway is a crucial route for daily commuters, facilitating access to popular tourist destinations such as Adi Kailash, Narayan Ashram, and Munsiyari. Over 150 vehicles and more than 400 passengers found themselves stranded. According to a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) spokesperson, On receiving an information, we promptly dispatched a JCB to clear the road. After three hours of efforts, the traffic was restored. 52 girls to become Drone Didis, get special training Fifty-two girls from the marginalised communities are undergoing specialised training to become skilled drone operators. The training camp, organised by the Youth Welfare and Provincial Defense Force Directorate, provides instruction on drone operation, assembly, disassembly, and repair. Minister Rekha Arya inspected the camp and shared that the participants were selected from various districts, including Chamoli, Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, and Champawat. The aim is to equip these girls with skills to enhance their career prospects, she stated. Ex-MLA Champion sent to jail, Umesh gets bail Amid rising tensions and territorial dispute in Uttarakhand, former MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion was arrested and remanded to 14 days judicial custody. The arrest follows his heated argument with Khanpur MLA Umesh Kumar, who was also presented in court on Monday. Rinku Verma, the in-charge joint inspector of prosecution in Haridwar, stated that the arrest was necessary due to the sensitive nature of the situation. There was a heavy police deployment outside the court to maintain order and ensure public safety. During the same court proceedings, MLA Umesh Kumar was granted bail following a brief hearing before the Chief Judicial Magistrate. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
Ex-MLA, legislator arrested after attacking each other's offices in Roorkee, waving pistols
DEHRADUN: The rivalry between former BJP MLA from Laksar Kunwar Pranav Singh 'Champion' and Independent MLA from Khanpur Umesh Kumar took a violent turn on Sunday when both of them allegedly attacked each other's offices along with dozens of their supporters following the announcement of local body election results in Uttarakhand. On Sunday evening, Champion created a ruckus at Kumar's Roorkee office along with his supporters and fired several rounds in the air. As soon as Kumar learned about Champion's ruckus and firing at his office, he reached Champion's office along with his supporters and created commotion in a similar manner. The situation escalated quickly, leading to the police intervening and taking Kunwar Pranav 'Champion' into custody. Later MLA Umesh Kumar was also detained by authorities for allegedly orchestrating a retaliatory attack at 'Champion's' office. Sources reported that multiple rounds were fired at the office of Khanpur MLA. A local official described the situation as a serious escalation in political tensions, emphasising the urgent need for decisive action to restore order. Haridwar's Senior Superintendent of Police, Paraminder Dobal, informed TNIE, In light of the incident, we have recommended to the District Magistrate the cancellation of the firearm licenses for both the former and current MLAs, as well as the revocation of their security detail. VIDEO | On Uttarakhand Police arresting ex-MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion, Independent Khanpur MLA Umesh Kumar says, Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion's candidates lost in local body polls in Landhaura and Dhandera. Following this, he used vulgar words against mother in a social pic.twitter.com/yk1bvTBqXw Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 26, 2025 PTI reported that Champion was picked up by the police from his residence in Dehradun following the incident and taken to Haridwar. In a video that has gone viral, he was seen in a police van going from Nehru Colony police station in Dehradun. Talking to reporters from inside the police van, Champion said the Khanpur MLA had attacked his mansion in Landhaura on Saturday night and abused him. What he did today was in reaction to that, Champion said. When I reacted, I was picked up.It is an injustice. I will fight against it, Champion told reporters. His wife Devyani Singh claimed that a complaint was lodged with the police about Umesh Kumar attacking their residence in Landhaura at 10. 28 pm on Saturday but when no action was taken, it became necessary to react to save our honour. The tension stems from a prolonged rivalry between the two leaders. For months, former MLA Kunwar 'Champion' and current MLA Umesh Kumar have been exchanging heated remarks on social media. To address the escalating tensions, authorities have deployed additional police forces across the district. Traffic along Kanvad Patri Roada critical route leading to the residences of both leadershas been completely blocked to prevent further clashes. We are taking all necessary precautions to maintain law and order, a police spokesperson said. Crowds are being actively prevented from approaching Champions residence. Meanwhile, a large group of Umesh Kumars supporters is reportedly heading to Roorkee from Khanpur, further heightening the already volatile atmosphere. The situation is becoming increasingly challenging to control, a senior police officer admitted, raising concerns over the growing unrest. (With inputs from PTI)
UP CM Yogi Adityanath says Sanatan Dharma is India's 'national religion'
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said Sanatan Dharma as the ational religion, emphasising that the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is for all, irrespective of caste or religion. Sanatan Dharma is the national religion of India. It is the religion of humanity. The process of worship may differ, but the religion is one, and that religion is Sanatan Dharma. The Kumbh represents that Sanatan Dharma, Adityanath told NDTV . MahaKumbh 2025: 10 crore pilgrims expected to take holy dip for Mauni Amavasya on January 29 Yogi Adityanath stated that nearly six crore devotees took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and once the Saraswati. He added, This message of unity was given by Maha Kumbh. There was no discrimination. People who used to criticise Sanatan Dharma, we say come see this. Do not be Dhritarashtra, come see it yourself, the chief minister said. According to reports, over 11 crore devotees have taken a holy dip in the sacred waters of Prayagraj during the first 14 days of the Mahakumbh. On Sunday, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav visited Prayagraj and took part in the Maha Kumbh by taking a holy dip. Afterward, he told reporters, Devotees come here driven by their faith. I took 11 dips. There is no room for divisive or negative politics... The day I took a dip at Haridwar was a celebration, and today, I was fortunate to take a dip here. As per tradition, pilgrims gather at the Sangamthe confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the now-extinct Saraswati riversto take a holy dip, believed to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation). Deeply rooted in Sanatan Dharma, the event symbolizes a celestial alignment, creating an auspicious time for spiritual cleansing and devotion. The Maha Kumbh Mela is anticipated to welcome over 45 crore visitors, marking a historic event for India. India will be strong if Sanatan Dharma is strong, says UP CM Yogi Adityanath
Akhilesh Yadav Takes Holy Dip at Maha Kumbh
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav took a holy dip in the Sangam at Maha Kumbh on Sunday, urging the BJP to bathe with patience. He criticized the BJP for splashing water on each other after bathing in the Sangam, saying people come to Kumbh for virtue and charity, not for water sports. Yadav, who had earlier taken a dip in the Ganga river in Haridwar on Makar Sankranti, said he had always visited the religious congregation. The latest official figures show that 1.17 crore people took a dip in the Sangam till late Sunday afternoon, bringing the total number of 'snan' (bath) in Maha Kumbh since its start to 11.47 crore.
BJP sweeps urban local body polls in Uttarakhand, wins 10 of 11 mayoral seats
DEHRADUN: The BJP on Sunday swept the urban local body elections in Uttarakhand , winning 10 out of 11 mayoral seats to emerge as the dominant party in the municipal councils and nagar panchayats. While the BJP won 10 mayoral seats, an Independent candidate bagged the remaining seat, State Election Commissioner Sushil Kumar told PTI. However, the counting which began on Saturday is still underway and the results of all the 100 urban local bodies which went to the polls on January 23 are likely to be out by late afternoon, Kumar said. Polling to 11 municipal corporations, 43 municipal councils, and 46 nagar panchayats was held by ballot on Thursday with 65.4 per cent of voters exercising their franchise. A total of 5,405 candidates, including 72 running for 11 mayoral posts, 445 for municipal council chairperson and 4,888 for municipal councillors and members, were in the fray. The mayoral seats won by the BJP included Dehradun (Saurabh Thapliyal), Rishikesh (Shambhu Paswan), Kashipur (Dipak Bali), Haridwar (Kiran Jaisdal), Roorkee (Anita Devi), Kotdwar (Shailendra Rawat), Rudrapur (Vikas Sharma), Almora (Ajay Verma), Pithoragarh (Kalpana Devlal), and Haldwani (Gajraj Bisht). Arti Bhandari , an Independent nominee, won the Srinagar mayoral seat in Pauri district, Kumar said. Congress, which won two mayoral seats in the last urban local body polls held in 2018, drew a blank this time. In municipal councils too, it finished third behind the BJP and independents. In the run-up to the urban local body polls, the BJP had sought votes in the name of a triple-engine government to keep the pace of development uninterrupted in the state. As the results showed a BJP sweep, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami congratulated the winning party candidates and asked them to speed up development works in their respective areas. Heartiest congratulations to all the winning candidates of BJP. People have elected capable public representatives. Now it is the job of all the elected representatives to speed up development in their respective areas and strengthen the system. Our aim is to implement the concept of clean and green city on the ground through municipal bodies so that tourists coming to the state from across the country and abroad return with positive and inspiring experiences, Dhami said after unfurling the Tricolour at the state BJP office here to mark the 76th Republic Day. He also thanked the state election commission for holding the polls peacefully. Uttarakhand BJP chief Mahendra Bhatt termed the poll verdict another stamp of approval by the people on the policies and programmes of the BJP governments in the state and at the Centre. The verdict is a trailer of BJP's third consecutive victory in the assembly polls due in 2027, he said.
Uttarakhand local body polls: Voting underway, 22.6 per cent turnout by noon
DEHRADUN: Voting for 100 municipal bodies in Uttarakhand kicked off on Thursday morning, with a voter turnout of 22.6 per cent reported by noon. Despite clear skies, the first two hours saw a modest turnout of only 11 per cent. Polling started at 8 am and will continue until 5 pm. The voting process encountered several challenges. In one area, voters staged a boycott, while four polling stations faced chaos due to discrepancies in the electoral rolls, preventing many individuals from locating their names. Notably, former Chief Minister Harish Rawat was among those unable to cast his vote, as his name was missing from the voter list. Former CM Rawat told TNIE , The BJP is leading the charge in removing names from the electoral rolls, and they have become quite skilled at it. However, these actions will not undermine the integrity of democracy or the will of the voters. According to information received by TNIE from its sources, residents in Kesharwala, Dehradun, staged a boycott of the voting process. At the Government Inter College Kesharwala, only one vote has been cast so far. A team from the administration is on its way to the location, in Kesharwala. Villagers had previously announced their decision to boycott the elections in protest of their demand for better road infrastructure. Tensions have escalated among voters in the Badkot Municipal Council of Uttarkashi. Chaos erupted at the polling booth located in the Industrial Training Institute, where several voters were reportedly being denied the right to vote despite their names appearing on the electoral rolls. BJP candidate Atol Rawat stated, Only those whose Aadhaar card is registered under the Badkot Municipal area have the right to vote. This stance has faced strong opposition from other candidates. Independent MLA Sanjay Dobhal emphasised, Voter names should be on the electoral list, and voters must possess valid identification. They should be citizens of India; they have the right to vote. The Returning Officer added, It is the presiding officer who has the authority to determine who can vote and who cannot. According to sources from the Election Department, the number of municipal corporations in Uttarakhand has increased to 11 over the past six years. This election marks the first time that elections are being held for the municipal corporations of Srinagar, Almora, and Pithoragarh, which were previously designated as municipalities. As of 12:30 pm, voter turnout figures indicate that Almora recorded 24.3 per cent, Bageshwar 25.9 per cent, Chamoli 18.4 per cent, Champawat 24.32 per cent, Dehradun 22.4 per cent, Haridwar 26.6 per cent, Nainital 22.3 per cent, Pauri Garhwal 24.4 per cent, Pithoragarh 22.1 per cent, Rudraprayag 20.9 per cent, Tehri 19.3 per cent, Udham Singh Nagar 28.2 per cent, and Uttarkashi 20.6 per cent. A total of 1,515 polling stations have been established across the state, comprising a total of 3,394 booths. The total number of voters in these municipalities stands at 3.029 million. To facilitate the voting process, 3,394 polling teams were dispatched on Wednesday.
DCA seizes medicine in Telanganas Medchal for misleading claims
Hyderabad: The Telangana Drug Control Administration (DCA) has seized ayurvedic medicines over misleading claims from Medchal on Thursday, January 23. Stocks of Rheuam Liniment manufactured by Maheshwari Pharmaceuticals, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, were detected in Asifabad while Stolist Capsules, manufactured by Bhrigus Pharma, Haryana, were detected at Medchal-Malkajgiri district. Also ReadTelangana: DCA raids de-addiction center for illegal Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
OYO To Add 500 Hotels In Religious Hubs As Tourism Booms In India
The company plans to open hotels in locations including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Puri and Haridwar.
OYO plans to add 500 hotels in religious hubs this year
NEW DELHI, Jan 22:Travel tech unicorn OYO on Wednesday said it is planning to add 500 hotels in religious hubs, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Puri, Haridwar, Mathura, Vrindavan, Amritsar, Ujjain, Ajmer, Nasik, and Tirupati, this year. The announcement comes at a time when religious tourism in the country is booming and the government has launched several initiatives that aim to improve infrastructure at tourist sites and develop tourist attractions, including the PRASHAD scheme, the Ramayana Circuit, and the Swadesh [] The post OYO plans to add 500 hotels in religious hubs this year appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
From vignyan to gyan: Abhey Singh alias IITian Baba's quest for truth brings him to Mahakumbh
He speaks in staccato. Sounds silly and sublime at the same time. And breaks into a delightful impromptu jig. The first week of Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, already visited by over 70 million, saw this unlikely head-turner, Abhey Singh, 34, now a media star identified by the masses as 'IITian Baba'. Abhey Singh's life journey is one as unique as the spelling of his name. From science to spirituality -- from vignyan to gyan -- he is now on a quest to explore the meaning of his existence and purpose of his life. My existence is unrestricted and boundless. I possess complete freedom to undertake any action, unbound by limitations or constraints, he tells media persons, now following him in droves. He is a complete nomad even at the Mahakumbh and it's difficult to spot him at one place. After the limelight remained trained on him at the beginning of the Mela, he suddenly disappeared for a couple of days, but showed up on Friday evening, claiming that seers were spreading rumours about his 'vanishing' act due to his popularity. Born to lawyer father and a homemaker mother in Jhajjar, Haryana, Abhey was exceptional in academics. His entry to IIT-Bombay in 2008 was a testimony to this. He completed his four-year degree in aerospace engineering like a normal whiz kid. In came a campus placement at a Delhi firm. Nothing unusual on the surface. But somewhere within there was growing restlessness. I studied at IIT-Bombay for four years, and also did MDS from there. But there was something amiss. Soon, I developed interest in arts and photography, he says. He also did a course in fine arts. But equilibrium was nowhere to be seen. Still, despite a tumultuous state of mind, he carried on for some more years. A high-paying job took him to Canada in 2016. But at the same time disenchantment with the material world was on full throttle. In one of the Instagram posts from 2016, he writes in a philosophical post: There were so many things I did not want to be, but they were deep within me. So I cut parts of me out. With time, more parts I chopped. The less remained. And now I wonder who it is that is 'left'. The Covid pandemic revealed to him the unpredictability of life. He left Canada for good. The family, expectedly, was not amused. But, for Abhey, the familial thread had weakened. Parents' appeal for pursuing a normal life remained unheeded. And he often started remaining outdoors. His passion for photography and travelling added to his spiritual pursuit. Soon he realised his real calling lay in the hills. For the next couple of years, he was off to Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh -- Rishikesh, Haridwar, Shimla, Mussoorie, Dharamshala. Spending harsh winters at these places triggered his own metamorphosis. Then I spent a couple of days with an Aghori baba performing week-long sadhna (meditations)... life changed after that, he says. Crisp suit and tie gave way to saffron rob and Rudraksh. A few months ago, he met Baba Someshwar Puri of Juna Akhara in Varanasi, who brought him to Mahakumbh. Now soaked in ascetic ecstasy and basking in the fame that he is getting here, he says: I have finally understood the truth. Gyan ke peeche chalte jao, chalte jao, aur kahan jaoge, yahin aoge (Keep following the path of knowledge and wisdom. Where else will you go? You will return to your roots). I don't want to get stuck, I don't want to stop. When a man doesn't get stuck anywhere, then he becomes free, he says, declaring I have no friend, nor I am in touch with my family. He last spoke to his parents six months ago. They, of course, want him back, but deep within they know it's a difficult demand.
129-Year-Old Swami Sivananda Attends Kumbh Mela for a Century
Swami Sivananda, born in 1896, has witnessed every Kumbh Mela over the past century, marking an extraordinary milestone in his life. The revered spiritual leader, who has dedicated his life to yoga and spiritual service, is considered a living legend in the world of Indian spirituality. His participation in the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in India, has become a symbol of his unwavering devotion and spiritual journey. 1896 born Swami Sivananda has attended every Kumbh Mela in 100 years #KumbhMela2025 #MahaKumbhMela2025 pic.twitter.com/OXHI6OWx1H Deccan Chronicle (@DeccanChronicle) January 16, 2025 Swami Sivanandas first Kumbh Mela was in 1901, when he was just five years old. Since then, he has attended every subsequent gathering, including those held in Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. His continuous presence at this sacred event, which is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has made him an iconic figure. The Kumbh Mela is a festival that holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus. Pilgrims from across the world gather to take a ritual dip in the holy rivers, believing it purifies the soul and washes away sins. For Swami Sivananda, the Kumbh Mela has not only been a spiritual pilgrimage but also an opportunity to teach, guide, and inspire countless devotees. In his later years, despite the challenges of age and health, Swami Sivananda has continued to attend the Mela, often seen leading spiritual discourses and conducting yoga sessions for his followers. His teachings focus on the importance of self-realization, meditation, and the pursuit of inner peace. Swami Sivanandas dedication to attending the Kumbh Mela for over a century highlights his commitment to the principles of yoga, spirituality, and community. His remarkable journey is a testament to his resilience, devotion, and the deep spiritual connection he shares with the sacred festival. Today, at the age of 129, Swami Sivananda continues to inspire generations of seekers with his teachings and unwavering faith.
Dehradun Diary| Gend mela lights up Makar Sankranti
Gend mela lights up Makar Sankranti! The Gend Mela, a well-known ball festival of the state, was celebrated in Pauri Garhwal on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. While this festival takes place in various locations, the events at Thalnadi and Dadamandi are the most famous. The celebration of Makar Sankranti in the hilly regions was highlighted by vibrant Gend Melas, featuring thrilling matches. In one such competition, Kanvghati emerged victorious against Mavakot. These melas attracted many spectators. Akhilesh says backing stronger AAP in Delhi SP leader Akhilesh Yadav has expressed his doubts about Congresss strength in Delhi, stating that AAP is better positioned to challenge the BJP. Congress is weak in Delhi but AAP is strong enough to take on the BJP. That is why we are supporting them, he asserted. Yadav was in Haridwar on Wednesday to immerse his uncle Rajpal Yadavs ashes. Speaking to the media he raised questions regarding Congresss leadership within the INDIA alliance. When the INDIA alliance was being formed, Nitish Kumar had held discussions with all anti-BJP parties and it was decided to strengthen regional parties where they are already strong, he noted. AIIMS Rishikesh uses drone to deliver meds In a significant development, AIIMS Rishikesh on Wednesday used a drone to deliver medications for Hepatitis C patients at the Roshanabad District Jail. The drone covered the distance in approximately 23 minutes. Last month, of several jail inmates, ten had tested positive for Hepatitis C, prompting AIIMS specialists to recommend treatment. The medications were sourced specifically for these patients. On Wednesday at around 11:30 am, the drone departed with the medications, overseen by AIIMS Director Meenu Singh and Dr. Ajit Bhadoria. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
INDIA bloc intact, SP supporting AAP over Congress in Delhi, asserts Akhilesh Yadav
During a visit to Haridwar, Yadav urged the Uttar Pradesh government to address visible shortcomings in the organisation of the Maha Kumbh, particularly in light of modern expectations and live broadcasts
AAP stronger than Congress in Delhi to fight BJP: Akhilesh Yadav
Haridwar: Asserting that the INDIA bloc is intact, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday, January 15, said he is supporting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the Congress in Delhi because it is stronger and the common aim is to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Strengthening the hands of regional parties wherever they Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Naga Sadhus mesmerise devotees at Mahakumbh 2025
LUCKNOW: The early morning processions of saints and seers, smeared in ashes, made their way to the ghats for the Amrit Snan of Makar Sankranti, reflecting the different hues of the world of Sanatan. Among them, the procession of the Naga Sadhus left onlookers spellbound and intrigued. From the captivating display of spiritual fervour to martial artistry, discipline, and mastery over traditional weaponry, the Naga Sadhus mesmerised those gathered at the banks of Triveni. Leading most of the Akharas during the Amrit Snan, they epitomised the vibrancy of age-old traditions whether it was the skilful wielding of spears and swords or playing the Damru. Their stunts with sticks, martial feats, and dancing to their own beats, made the Naga Sadhus a spiritual delight to watch. The grand Shobha Yatras taken out by the Akharas for the Amrit Snan were a sight to behold. Some Naga Sadhus rode majestically on horses, while others walked on foot in their distinctive attire and ornaments. With flowers in their matted hair, garlands around their necks, and Trishuls (tridents) held high, they added to the spiritual grandeur of Mahakumbh 2025. Known for their self-discipline and unwavering spirit, the sadhus moved in perfect order, following the directives of their Akhara leaders. Naga sadhus of Shri Panchayati Niranjani Akhada arrive to take the first 'Amrit Snan' at the Mahakumbh on Makar Sankranti festival, at Sangam. Amidst the rhythmic beats of drums, the energy and enthusiasm of the Naga Sadhus created a vibrant celebration. During the Shobha Yatra, both the media and devotees eagerly raised their cameras to capture the mesmerizing presence of the Naga Sadhus. The sadhus, in turn, engaged with the crowd, inviting them to share in their joy. Some even wore black sunglasses, adding to their mystique. Dancing to the beats of drums and showcasing the verve of the rituals, the Naga Sadhus filled the atmosphere with vibrant energy. Their enthusiasm was contagious, as devotees watched in awe, captivated by every movement and expression. Even during the holy bath, the Naga Sadhus' unique style stood out. With zeal in abundance, they entered the icy waters of the Triveni Sangam. Their playful interactions were a sight to behold, as they splashed water on each other in mystical ecstasy. Some even engaged with the media, sprinkling water on the cameramen, adding a touch of light-heartedness to the spiritual proceedings. Mahakumbh expected to boost economy by Rs 2-4 lakh crore Female Naga ascetics were also present in significant numbers. Like their male counterparts, they devote themselves to intense meditation and yoga. The primary distinction lies in their attire female ascetics wear saffron, typically unstitched garments. Their journey to becoming Naga ascetics involves renouncing worldly pursuits, including familial ties, by performing 'Pind Daan' for their parents and themselves. Once initiated into sainthood, their mission is to uphold and protect Sanatan Dharma. This Mahakumbh sparked widespread curiosity about these remarkable women and their steadfast dedication to their spiritual cause. Relegated to the higher Himalayan ranges and immersed in their yogic and spiritual practices, the Nagas descend on the banks of the Sangam only during the Kumbh and Mahakumbh. They attend all the Kumbhs across four centres: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nasik. Every action of the Naga Sadhus is a celebration of the spiritual and natural harmony of humanity, reflecting the purity and joy embodied at the congregation. 'Kamala' performs rituals in Niranjani Akhara at Sangam Bhogali Bihu lights up Mahakumbh with Northeastern traditions For the first time, the Mahakumbh embraced the vibrant traditions of the Northeastern states with the celebration of Bhogali Bihu taking centre stage. On Makar Sankranti, a special event was held at the Prag Jyotishpur camp of Northeastern saints, where women devotees from various states performed the traditional Bihu dance, infusing the mela with the rich culture of Assam. The celebration began with the distribution of rice dishes, followed by Naam Kirtan at the Namghar. Women devotees lit up the fairgrounds with their Bihu dance, showcasing the Northeast's rich heritage. Traditional structures such as the Bhelaghar, made of paddy straw, and the Meji, crafted from bamboo, were ceremonially burned on Tuesday morning, marking the essence of Bhogali Bihu. YouTuber faces Babas wrath at Mahakumbh At the Mahakumbh, YouTubers are a common sight, visiting Babas and ashrams, interviewing devotees, and capturing the mela in all its colours. However, one YouTuber had a tough time when Baba Mahakal Giri chased him with a chimta (tongs). The YouTuber faced Babas wrath for asking questions while he was immersed in his sadhna. The Baba, with one hand raised as a vow, jumped to his feet and began beating the YouTuber with a chimta, leading the victim to run for safety from Babas anger.
Akhilesh Yadav Takes Holy Dip In Ganga On Makar Sankranti
Samajwadi party chief Akhilesh Yadav took a dip in the Ganga river in Haridwar on the occasion of Makar Sankranti on Tuesday.
'Ancient temples converted into mosques be vacated'
The president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, Mahant Ravindra Puri, has demanded the evacuation of mosques built on ancient temples across India. Puri, who is also the president of the Mansa Devi Temple Trust in Haridwar, claims that around 80% of mosques in India are built on temples and that their domes resemble those of temples. He has appealed to Muslims to hand over such structures to Hindus and has called for the formation of a Sanatan Board to protect Hindu religious institutions. Puri also denied banning Muslims from attending the Maha Kumbh Mela, saying that they are welcome to visit and learn about Hinduism.
Maha Kumbh Begins in Prayagraj: A Grand Celebration of Faith and Devotion
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: The Maha Kumbh, renowned as the worlds largest spiritual gathering, commenced on Monday with the sacred 'Shahi Snan' (royal bath) on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to devotees, marking the beginning of this grand event that holds deep significance in Indias cultural and spiritual heritage. A Rare Celestial Event After 144 Years Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh is believed to be particularly special this year due to a rare celestial alignment occurring after 144 years. This rarity adds an extra layer of sanctity, drawing millions to the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers. Massive Attendance and Arrangements Over 45 crore devotees are expected to visit Prayagraj during the 45-day festival, which will conclude on February 26. During Mauni Amavasya, a peak day of the event, an estimated 45 crore pilgrims are anticipated to take a holy dip. Safety and Traffic Management To ensure the safety of pilgrims, NDRF teams and Uttar Pradesh Polices water police units have been deployed at key locations. Elaborate traffic plans have also been implemented, with designated entry and exit routes and specific parking areas to manage the large influx of vehicles. Spiritual Significance of Maha Kumbh According to legend, the god Vishnu wrested a golden pitcher containing the nectar of immortality from demons. During a celestial battle, four drops of the nectar fell to Earth, blessing the cities of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. These cities now host the Kumbh Mela by rotation, with the Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, being the most auspicious. A Unique Spiritual Experience Saffron-robed monks and ash-smeared ascetics have filled the grounds of Prayagraj, offering blessings to devotees, many of whom walked for weeks to reach the holy site. The ritual of taking a dip in the sacred waters is believed to absolve sins and grant salvation, making this event a deeply transformative experience for attendees. Focus on Cleanliness and Devotee Comfort The last Kumbh Mela was praised for its emphasis on sanitation, and this years event builds on that success. Authorities have arranged clean water, hygienic facilities, and smooth logistics to cater to the massive crowd. This reflects the governments commitment to ensuring the comfort and spiritual fulfillment of every visitor. Massive Devotee Turnout Over 50 lakh devotees took a holy dip on Sunday ahead of Paush Purnima, while Saturday saw a participation of 33 lakh pilgrims. Over 45 crore devotees are expected to visit during this spiritual event, which continues until February 26. The gathering includes saints, sages, families, and individuals of all ages, celebrating the unity and diversity of Sanatan Dharma. City Transformation for Maha Kumbh Prayagraj has undergone significant upgrades under the leadership of CM Yogi Adityanath. The citys infrastructure now boasts over 200 newly constructed and renovated roads, ensuring smooth connectivity for pilgrims. The governments commitment to providing a seamless experience has drawn praise from attendees.This years Maha Kumbh is particularly special due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs only once in 144 years. Devotees are eagerly awaiting the first Amrit Snan, scheduled for Makar Sankranti on January 14, where all Akharas will participate in traditional bathing sequences. To ensure safety, teams from the NDRF and Uttar Pradesh Water Police have been deployed at strategic locations. The Traffic Police have implemented a detailed plan for smooth vehicular movement, designating specific entry and exit routes, including Jawaharlal Nehru Marg for entry and Triveni Marg for exit. Parking facilities have been arranged for vehicles arriving from various locations, with dedicated lots such as Chini Mill Parking and Purva Surdas Parking for those coming from Jaunpur. However, during major bathing festivals, access to Akshayavat Darshan will remain restricted. The Maha Kumbh 2025, celebrated once every 12 years, continues to be a symbol of spiritual pride and cultural unity. With over 45 crore devotees expected to participate, Prayagraj remains at the heart of this grand confluence of faith. The festival will conclude on February 26, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual map of India.
Adorned in snow, Uttarakhand mountains beckon
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand saw a delightful change in weather on Sunday, as heavy snowfall and rain swept across various regions, causing a significant drop in mercury levels. Areas such as Nainital, Auli, Chakrata, Mussoorie, and their surroundings were blanketed in a thick layer of snow. The mountains draped in a white sheet of snow look nothing short of paradise, remarked a local resident, capturing the beauty of the winter landscape. In addition to the snowfall in the hilly areas, the plains experienced rain, accompanied by dense fog. Notably, Nainital welcomed its first snowfall of the year, much to the joy of both residents and tourists. Its a magical sight to see the first snow of the season, said a visitor, enthralled by the charm of the winter wonderland that Uttarakhand has become. Dehradun has been under a thick blanket of clouds for the past two days as mercury levels continue to fall, leading to a significant increase in cold conditions. The biting cold has made life quite challenging for residents of the hilly terrain. The severe cold is really taking a toll on us, remarked a local shopkeeper, highlighting the harshness of the weather. Morning fog and mist have further complicated matters, making it difficult for commuters. Despite the mercury dropping three degrees Celsius below normal, the weather in Dehradun has turned out to be colder than several other hill stations, including Mussoorie and Nainital. Its surprising how much colder it is here compared to the hills, said Jasmeet Anand, an IT professional who is based in Dehradun, reflecting on the unusual weather patterns this season. The local administration set up bonfires in various areas in the city during the day, while government offices recorded low attendance, remaining unusually quiet. Dr Bikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Department, informed this newspaper, There is a possibility of clear weather in the hilly districts starting Monday. On Sunday, the weather suddenly changed, resulting in heavy snowfall in the higher regions, he added. According to the meteriological department, Haldwani recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 17 mm. Other areas received the following amounts: Someshwar 15 mm, Haridwar 14 mm, Roorkee 12 mm, Laksar 10 mm, Mukteshwar 10 mm, Dehradun 10 mm, Nainital 9 mm, Srinagar 8 mm, and Tharali 5 mm.
Kumbh Mela 2025: Best Wishes, Quotes And Messages To Share During Maha Kumbh
Kumbh Mela 2025: Considered the most auspicious in the world, Maha Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years at holy pilgrimage sites, including Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.
Juna Akhara Saint Found Hanging In Haridwar Flat, Probe On: Police
A saint belonging to the Juna Akhara, residing in Shanti Bhavan located in the Kankhal police station area of Haridwar, was found dead, said the police on Sunday.
