Mohan Charan Majhi was sworn in as the Odisha's new Chief Minister yesterday. He chaired his first Cabinet meeting and approved a proposal to re-open all four gates of Shree Jagannath Temple. Watch this video for all details.

New BJP government in Odisha opens all four gates of Puri Jagannath temple

Mohan Charan Manjhi was sworn in as the Odisha's new Chief Minister yesterday. He chaired his first Cabinet meeting and approved a proposal to re-open all four gates of Shree Jagannath Temple. Watch this video for all details.

BJP government in Odisha opens all 4 gates of Puri Jagannath temple

<p>Nine lemons, which were considered sacred after being kept on the deity's spear at a temple in south Indian state of&nbsp;Tamil Nadu were auctioned at Rs 236,000 (approx. $28,309) by the authorities on Tuesday (Mar 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lemons were sold at such a hefty price because the devotees believed that consuming them would bring prosperity to the families and cure infertility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Devotees of the temple in Villupuram believe that consuming lemonade made from these lemons cures infertility and brings prosperity to families.</p>

<p>"The temple is famous for its sacred lemons. People strongly believe that the lemons spiked in Lord Muruga's spear have magical powers," a villager was quoted as saying by The Times Of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/285-year-old-lemon-discovered-in-dead-mans-cabinet-goes-viral-heres-how-it-looks-686283">285-year-old lemon discovered in dead man's cabinet goes viral. Here's how it looks</a></p>

<h2><strong>Childless couples, traders purchase lemons</strong></h2>

<p>During the annual Panguni Uthiram festival, childless couples flock to Lord Muruga's small temple, which is situated at the confluence of two hillocks at Tiruvanainallur village, Villupuram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The temple's management during this festival auctions the sacred lemons at whopping prices, as reported by The Times Of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the nine-day festival, the lemons - which are spiked on the spear on the first day and considered to be the "most auspicious and powerful" of all - are sold to the devotees at an exorbitant price. This year, the lemon was purchased by a couple for Rs50,500 ($599).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, one lemon is spiked on the spear of the deity each day by the priests for nine days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One lemon is spiked on the deity's spear by priests on each day of the nine-day temple festival, the report said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Archaeologists try to unearth ‘India’s oldest temple’ in Madhya Pradesh</strong></p>

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<p>"Childless couples buy the lemons as there is a strong belief that the lemon cures infertility. Traders and businessmen buy the lemon seeking prosperity in their business ventures," another villager said while speaking to The Times Of India.</p>

<p>As per the villagers, not just childless couples but even traders and businessmen try to buy these lemons which are believed to attract good fortune.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People, who are successful in bidding for these lemons, have to take a holy bath and are handed over the lemons after they kneel before the temple priests. For years, the temple has been celebrating this festival.</p>

<p>The festival, which is steeped in faith and tradition, continues to remain as a major cultural event which ensures that age-old customs and beliefs are still alive among the people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nine lemons, which were considered sacred after being kept on the deity's spear at a temple in south Indian state of Tamil Nadu were auctioned at Rs 236,000 (approx.

Nine lemons, which were considered sacred after being kept on the deity's spear at a temple in south Indian state of Tamil Nadu were auctioned at Rs 236,000 (approx. $28,309) by the authorities on Tuesday (Mar 26). The lemons were sold at such a hefty price because the devotees believed that consuming them would bring prosperity to the families and cure infertility. Devotees of the temple in Villupuram believe that consuming lemonade made from these lemons cures infertility and brings prosperity to families. "The temple is famous for its sacred lemons. People strongly believe that the lemons spiked in Lord Muruga's spear have magical powers," a villager was quoted as saying by The Times Of India. Also Read: 285-year-old lemon discovered in dead man's cabinet goes viral. Here's how it looks Childless couples, traders purchase lemons During the annual Panguni Uthiram festival, childless couples flock to Lord Muruga's small temple, which is situated at the confluence of two hillocks at Tiruvanainallur village, Villupuram. The temple's management during this festival auctions the sacred lemons at whopping prices, as reported by The Times Of India. During the nine-day festival, the lemons - which are spiked on the spear on the first day and considered to be the "most auspicious and powerful" of all - are sold to the devotees at an exorbitant price. This year, the lemon was purchased by a couple for Rs50,500 ($599). As per the report, one lemon is spiked on the spear of the deity each day by the priests for nine days. One lemon is spiked on the deity's spear by priests on each day of the nine-day temple festival, the report said. Watch: Archaeologists try to unearth ‘India’s oldest temple’ in Madhya Pradesh "Childless couples buy the lemons as there is a strong belief that the lemon cures infertility. Traders and businessmen buy the lemon seeking prosperity in their business ventures," another villager said while speaking to The Times Of India. As per the villagers, not just childless couples but even traders and businessmen try to buy these lemons which are believed to attract good fortune. People, who are successful in bidding for these lemons, have to take a holy bath and are handed over the lemons after they kneel before the temple priests. For years, the temple has been celebrating this festival. The festival, which is steeped in faith and tradition, continues to remain as a major cultural event which ensures that age-old customs and beliefs are still alive among the people. (With inputs from agencies)

Sacred nine lemons, believed to cure infertility, sell at hefty prices in Indian temple

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) started investigating a historical site in rural Madhya Pradesh where they believe the country's oldest Hindu temple could be found.

Archaeologists try to unearth ‘India’s oldest temple’ in Madhya Pradesh

UAE got its first Hindu temple. PM Modi inaugurated BAPS Hindu temple. It is situated in Abu Dhabi. Here are some unique details of BAPS Temple.

UAE BAPS Hindu Temple: From cost to key features, all about Abu Dhabi's first Hindu Mandir

<p>At least one person was&nbsp;killed and 17 others&nbsp;injured after a stage&nbsp;collapsed during an event at the famous Kalkaji temple in Delhi early&nbsp;Sunday (Jan 28), reported news agency PTI, citing local police.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know so far</strong></h2>

<p>The stage that was&nbsp;reportedly made of wood and had an iron frame&nbsp;collapsed during a mata jagran at midnight on Saturday (Jan 27). The police said that no permission was granted to hold the event, but sufficient staff was deployed to maintain law and order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The event saw the participation of 1500-1600 people, according to Delhi police. Soon after the incident, a&nbsp;crime team visited the spot and an investigation into the incident was ordered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We got a call at around 12.30 am (local time) that a stage, which was set up for 'jagran' purpose, at Kalkaji temple, collapsed. Teams were rushed to the spot. One woman was declared dead. Further investigation is underway,” news agency PTI quoted a senior police officer as saying.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-seeks-donation-for-bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra-to-offer-rahul-gandhi-signed-merchandise-as-gift-in-return-684365">Congress seeks donation for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, to offer Rahul Gandhi-signed merchandise as gift in return</a></strong></p>

<p>The police said the woman was rushed to the hospital by two people in an auto, but was pronounced dead upon arrival.</p>

<p>According to reports, several devotees climbed onto the stage after they got excited as the hymns were being sung which resulted in the collapse of the structure. Subsequently, chaos erupted with the devotees running amid a stampede-like situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | 17 people injured and one died when a platform, made of wood and iron frame, at a Mata Jagran at Mahant Parisar, Kalkaji Mandir collapsed at midnight on 27-28 January. Case registered against the organisers.<br />
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(Video: Viral visuals confirmed by Fire Department) <a href="https://t.co/r6bE9dh3ds">https://t.co/r6bE9dh3ds</a> <a href="https://t.co/haaC9TZe4D">pic.twitter.com/haaC9TZe4D</a></p>
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<p>The devotees were participating in a Hindu ritual called ‘Jagrata’ which includes singing, all-night vigils, hymns, dances and praying to Goddess Durga.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gyanvapi-dispute-all-india-muslim-personal-law-board-rejects-asi-report-says-it-is-no-conclusive-evidence-684371">Gyanvapi dispute: All India Muslim Personal Law Board rejects ASI report, says it is 'no conclusive evidence'</a></strong></p>

<p>The injured people were admitted to a hospital where they are currently undergoing treatment, and their condition is said to be stable. According to the police, a few suffered fractures.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Case registered against organisers</strong></h2>

<p>The Delhi police have registered a case under Sections 337, 304A, and 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the organisers of the event.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least one person was killed and 17 others injured after a stage collapsed during an event at the famous Kalkaji temple in Delhi early Sunday (Jan 28), reported news agency PTI, citing local police.

At least one person was killed and 17 others injured after a stage collapsed during an event at the famous Kalkaji temple in Delhi early Sunday (Jan 28), reported news agency PTI, citing local police. What we know so far The stage that was reportedly made of wood and had an iron frame collapsed during a mata jagran at midnight on Saturday (Jan 27). The police said that no permission was granted to hold the event, but sufficient staff was deployed to maintain law and order. The event saw the participation of 1500-1600 people, according to Delhi police. Soon after the incident, a crime team visited the spot and an investigation into the incident was ordered. “We got a call at around 12.30 am (local time) that a stage, which was set up for 'jagran' purpose, at Kalkaji temple, collapsed. Teams were rushed to the spot. One woman was declared dead. Further investigation is underway,” news agency PTI quoted a senior police officer as saying. ALSO READ | Congress seeks donation for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, to offer Rahul Gandhi-signed merchandise as gift in return The police said the woman was rushed to the hospital by two people in an auto, but was pronounced dead upon arrival. According to reports, several devotees climbed onto the stage after they got excited as the hymns were being sung which resulted in the collapse of the structure. Subsequently, chaos erupted with the devotees running amid a stampede-like situation. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. #WATCH | Delhi | 17 people injured and one died when a platform, made of wood and iron frame, at a Mata Jagran at Mahant Parisar, Kalkaji Mandir collapsed at midnight on 27-28 January. Case registered against the organisers. (Video: Viral visuals confirmed by Fire Department) https://t.co/r6bE9dh3ds pic.twitter.com/haaC9TZe4D — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2024 × The devotees were participating in a Hindu ritual called ‘Jagrata’ which includes singing, all-night vigils, hymns, dances and praying to Goddess Durga. ALSO READ | Gyanvapi dispute: All India Muslim Personal Law Board rejects ASI report, says it is 'no conclusive evidence' The injured people were admitted to a hospital where they are currently undergoing treatment, and their condition is said to be stable. According to the police, a few suffered fractures. Case registered against organisers The Delhi police have registered a case under Sections 337, 304A, and 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the organisers of the event. (With inputs from agencies)

India: One killed, 17 injured after stage collapses during event at Delhi's Kalkaji temple

<p>A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that&nbsp;a large Hindu temple existed at the site of Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side. As per the ASI findings, modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the Hindu temple, with attempts to erase carvings on the pillars, as per Jain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Based on scientific studies/survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," a portion of the ASI report said, according to news agency ANI.</p>

<p>"The ASI findings suggest that modifications were made to the mosque, reusing pillars and plaster with minor alterations. Some pillars from the Hindu temple were slightly modified for use in the new structure. Attempts were made to remove the carvings on the pillars," Jain said while pointing to the ASI report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-launches-campaign-song-evokes-pm-modis-popularity-watch-683664">Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP launches campaign song, evokes PM Modi's popularity</a></p>

<p>The dispute revolves around a structure found during a court-mandated survey, with the Hindu side claiming it to be a 'Shivling,' while the Muslim side contends it is a fountain. The Varanasi court had ordered the ASI report to be made public, and lawyers for the Hindu side expressed confidence in their victory.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-awards-2024-declared-on-indian-republic-day-eve-full-list-of-awardees-683648">Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees</a></p>

<p>Notably, after a Supreme Court order, the fountain area was sealed in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking further Jain said, "The ASI has said that based on the scientific studies survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure. A report of a total of 839 pages has been filed by ASI..."</p>

<p>The 839-page length report was filed by ASI.</p>

<p>Providing further details about the survey report, Jain said, "The ASI has said that Sculptures of Hindu deities and carved architectural members were found buried under the dumped soil... Existing architectural remains, decorated mouldings on the walls, a large decorated entrance gate, a small entrance with a mutilated image, and birds and animals carved for decoration in and outside suggest that the western wall are remaining part of a Hindu temple."</p>

<p>"The Arabic Persian inscription found inside a room mentions that the mosque was built in the 20th regnal year of Aurangzeb. Hence the preexisting structure appears to have been destroyed in the 17th century... Based on the scientific studies survey carried outstudy of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that an intricate study of pillars and plasters in corridors indicated that "Vyala figures carved on either side of the lotus medallion were mutilated and after removing the stone mass from the corners, that space was decorated with floral design."</p>

<p>"This observation is supported by two similar plasters still existing on the north and southern walls of the western chamber in their original place..."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-where-are-ayodhyas-treasures-being-kept-683668">Gravitas: Where are Ayodhya's treasures being kept?</a></strong></p>

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<p>The ASI conducted a scientific survey in response to a district court order from July 2023 to determine if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that a large Hindu temple existed at the site of Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side.

A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that a large Hindu temple existed at the site of Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side. As per the ASI findings, modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the Hindu temple, with attempts to erase carvings on the pillars, as per Jain. "Based on scientific studies/survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," a portion of the ASI report said, according to news agency ANI. "The ASI findings suggest that modifications were made to the mosque, reusing pillars and plaster with minor alterations. Some pillars from the Hindu temple were slightly modified for use in the new structure. Attempts were made to remove the carvings on the pillars," Jain said while pointing to the ASI report. Also Read | Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP launches campaign song, evokes PM Modi's popularity The dispute revolves around a structure found during a court-mandated survey, with the Hindu side claiming it to be a 'Shivling,' while the Muslim side contends it is a fountain. The Varanasi court had ordered the ASI report to be made public, and lawyers for the Hindu side expressed confidence in their victory. Also Read | Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees Notably, after a Supreme Court order, the fountain area was sealed in 2022. Speaking further Jain said, "The ASI has said that based on the scientific studies survey carried out study of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure. A report of a total of 839 pages has been filed by ASI..." The 839-page length report was filed by ASI. Providing further details about the survey report, Jain said, "The ASI has said that Sculptures of Hindu deities and carved architectural members were found buried under the dumped soil... Existing architectural remains, decorated mouldings on the walls, a large decorated entrance gate, a small entrance with a mutilated image, and birds and animals carved for decoration in and outside suggest that the western wall are remaining part of a Hindu temple." "The Arabic Persian inscription found inside a room mentions that the mosque was built in the 20th regnal year of Aurangzeb. Hence the preexisting structure appears to have been destroyed in the 17th century... Based on the scientific studies survey carried outstudy of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure," he added. He also said that an intricate study of pillars and plasters in corridors indicated that "Vyala figures carved on either side of the lotus medallion were mutilated and after removing the stone mass from the corners, that space was decorated with floral design." "This observation is supported by two similar plasters still existing on the north and southern walls of the western chamber in their original place..." Watch | Gravitas: Where are Ayodhya's treasures being kept? × The ASI conducted a scientific survey in response to a district court order from July 2023 to determine if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple. (With inputs from agencies)

Gyanvapi mosque dispute: Hindu temple 'existed' at site, pillars reused, says Archaeological survey report

<p>In a world separated by geography, culture, civilizational histories and economic conditions but yet connected by modern technologies that make words fly across the planet in nanoseconds, it is difficult to decipher the inner import of speeches made by demagogic leaders.</p>

<p>Where does narrow nationalism end and all-encompassing globalism begin? What in such speeches is meant for domestic audiences and sentiment and what represents the real position on issues that matter in the here and now?</p>

<p>Such questions come to mind a day after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led consecration rituals at a shiny new temple to the revered Hindu god-king Rama&nbsp;at Ayodhya, his birthplace loaded with legends that stretch back into antiquity. High on sentiment, philosophy, and noble intent, Modi's speech oozed inspiration and assurances but left questions open on the future of an emerging India in a moment of difficult geopolitical choices.</p>

<p>Modi spoke at the site now housing a magnificent temple where only 31 years ago, Hindu activists had controversially and illegally demolished a centuries-old mosque dome at the then-disputed spot believed by Hindus to be the birthplace of Rama. His reference to Rama as a symbol of national consciousness and global righteousness accompanied by conciliatory words of peace and social harmony was in stark contrast to the 1992 demolition when he was a lower-end activist in a group seeking the restoration of Ayodhya's glory by challenging Muslim community leaders on the dispute.</p>

<p>The statesmanly Ayodhya speech, buttressed by a matching oration from Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), left no doubt about India's global ambitions. Bhagwat referred to India as a potential Vishwaguru (Global guru) if its citizens stayed together with a sense of discipline.</p>

<p>Coming in the backdrop of a Russia-Ukraine conflict in Europe and an Israel-Hamas war in Palestine, besides a global climate change challenge, that does indeed raise questions on what India can, should and will do.</p>

<p>First up, India is still a wannabe on the high table of global diplomacy. Though it steered the presidency of the Group of 20 assembly of elite nations' ably last year under Modi, it is still an aspirant for a&nbsp;permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council. Hours after Modi's speech, electric car maker Tesla's motormouth chief Elon Musk tweeted that it was "absurd" that India did not have such a seat despite being the world's most populous country. His own intent may be to get better terms for Tesla's expected/wanted entry into India's 1.5-billion people market, but the question of India's status has been hanging in the planet's air for some time now.</p>

<p>For India to be Vishwaguru, the world has to accept its status as such. With China not too friendly, and India's relations with the West recently rattled by diplomatic run-ins with Canada and the US on issues related to Indian separatists&nbsp;on their soils, there is a Catch-22 for Modi's ambitions to make India a global guide. He did try hard during the G-20 presidency and before that with efforts to ship India-made COVID-19 vaccines to countries across the world. But, as of now, India is barely asserting its sovereignty on the global stage.</p>

<p>The question, therefore, after the Ayodhya ceremony is: Can India convert some of the globalist high-moral ground into principled positions that will earn it respect? Does that mean aligning with one or the other in conflicts? Can that somehow earn India the position of a trustworthy interlocutor in the diplomatic scheme of things? In the absence of any bold decision on that front, we have to infer that eloquent speeches are meant for domestic consumption in an election year.</p>

<p>Modi has travelled across the globe several times in his 10-year tenure and seems poised to win a third term in power. By and large, his diplomacy has been built around India's emergence as the world's fastest-growing major economy which has been a matter of fact for about a decade now. He has to go that extra mile to take things to the next level. What would that be?</p>

<p>In foreign policy, it is a truism that every country is guided by its interests more than friendships or deeply felt moral principles. If that is true, where do Indian interests stand vis-a-vis its Vishwaguru ambitions rooted in a globalist morality? India has had a similar posturing since the times of its first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, but realpolitik both at home and abroad has often steered the course of action.</p>

<p>Modi is known to be a decisive leader, but that is largely on domestic matters. In foreign policy, India has seen more continuity than change in the past decade. Even on Palestine, Modi and his lot have been batting for a two-state solution in Palestine despite domestic tensions over Islamic expansionism and a warmth with Israel that is all too apparent. But, by buying cheaper oil from Russia in the wake of the Ukraine war and maintaining reasonably healthy relations with Iran, it cannot be seen as a Western ally either, despite strong ties based on trade, technology, and democratic values. It doesn't help that a border dispute and trade tensions with China are a perpetual matter of concern for India, especially given Beijing's close ties with Pakistan, India's estranged neighbour.</p>

<p>For India to emerge stronger, the Modi government's studied sovereignty is both an asset and a drag. Just as voters love welfare handouts, world powers love friends in need. Speeches go only so far.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em></p>


In a world separated by geography, culture, civilizational histories and economic conditions but yet connected by modern technologies that make words fly across the planet in nanoseconds, it is difficult to decipher the inner import of speeches made by demagogic leaders.

In a world separated by geography, culture, civilizational histories and economic conditions but yet connected by modern technologies that make words fly across the planet in nanoseconds, it is difficult to decipher the inner import of speeches made by demagogic leaders. Where does narrow nationalism end and all-encompassing globalism begin? What in such speeches is meant for domestic audiences and sentiment and what represents the real position on issues that matter in the here and now? Such questions come to mind a day after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led consecration rituals at a shiny new temple to the revered Hindu god-king Rama at Ayodhya, his birthplace loaded with legends that stretch back into antiquity. High on sentiment, philosophy, and noble intent, Modi's speech oozed inspiration and assurances but left questions open on the future of an emerging India in a moment of difficult geopolitical choices. Modi spoke at the site now housing a magnificent temple where only 31 years ago, Hindu activists had controversially and illegally demolished a centuries-old mosque dome at the then-disputed spot believed by Hindus to be the birthplace of Rama. His reference to Rama as a symbol of national consciousness and global righteousness accompanied by conciliatory words of peace and social harmony was in stark contrast to the 1992 demolition when he was a lower-end activist in a group seeking the restoration of Ayodhya's glory by challenging Muslim community leaders on the dispute. The statesmanly Ayodhya speech, buttressed by a matching oration from Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), left no doubt about India's global ambitions. Bhagwat referred to India as a potential Vishwaguru (Global guru) if its citizens stayed together with a sense of discipline. Coming in the backdrop of a Russia-Ukraine conflict in Europe and an Israel-Hamas war in Palestine, besides a global climate change challenge, that does indeed raise questions on what India can, should and will do. First up, India is still a wannabe on the high table of global diplomacy. Though it steered the presidency of the Group of 20 assembly of elite nations' ably last year under Modi, it is still an aspirant for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council. Hours after Modi's speech, electric car maker Tesla's motormouth chief Elon Musk tweeted that it was "absurd" that India did not have such a seat despite being the world's most populous country. His own intent may be to get better terms for Tesla's expected/wanted entry into India's 1.5-billion people market, but the question of India's status has been hanging in the planet's air for some time now. For India to be Vishwaguru, the world has to accept its status as such. With China not too friendly, and India's relations with the West recently rattled by diplomatic run-ins with Canada and the US on issues related to Indian separatists on their soils, there is a Catch-22 for Modi's ambitions to make India a global guide. He did try hard during the G-20 presidency and before that with efforts to ship India-made COVID-19 vaccines to countries across the world. But, as of now, India is barely asserting its sovereignty on the global stage. The question, therefore, after the Ayodhya ceremony is: Can India convert some of the globalist high-moral ground into principled positions that will earn it respect? Does that mean aligning with one or the other in conflicts? Can that somehow earn India the position of a trustworthy interlocutor in the diplomatic scheme of things? In the absence of any bold decision on that front, we have to infer that eloquent speeches are meant for domestic consumption in an election year. Modi has travelled across the globe several times in his 10-year tenure and seems poised to win a third term in power. By and large, his diplomacy has been built around India's emergence as the world's fastest-growing major economy which has been a matter of fact for about a decade now. He has to go that extra mile to take things to the next level. What would that be? In foreign policy, it is a truism that every country is guided by its interests more than friendships or deeply felt moral principles. If that is true, where do Indian interests stand vis-a-vis its Vishwaguru ambitions rooted in a globalist morality? India has had a similar posturing since the times of its first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, but realpolitik both at home and abroad has often steered the course of action. Modi is known to be a decisive leader, but that is largely on domestic matters. In foreign policy, India has seen more continuity than change in the past decade. Even on Palestine, Modi and his lot have been batting for a two-state solution in Palestine despite domestic tensions over Islamic expansionism and a warmth with Israel that is all too apparent. But, by buying cheaper oil from Russia in the wake of the Ukraine war and maintaining reasonably healthy relations with Iran, it cannot be seen as a Western ally either, despite strong ties based on trade, technology, and democratic values. It doesn't help that a border dispute and trade tensions with China are a perpetual matter of concern for India, especially given Beijing's close ties with Pakistan, India's estranged neighbour. For India to emerge stronger, the Modi government's studied sovereignty is both an asset and a drag. Just as voters love welfare handouts, world powers love friends in need. Speeches go only so far. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

World Guru on a sticky wicket: Why India needs to go that extra mile to reap Ayodhya ambitions

Ayodhya is blazing with temple devotion as the city excitedly awaits the Pran Pratishtha on January 22. A tidal wave of devotion is sweeping throughout the country, with Ayodhya Dham making extraordinary preparations to welcome the thousands of Ram Bhakts.

Ram Mandir: Grand preparations in Ayodhya for Ram temple consecration

<p>The consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in India's temple city of Ayodhya on January 22 is set to be live-streamed at the iconic Times Square in New York City, United States, as per media reports. The ceremony will also be telecast&nbsp;at booth level across the entire country. &nbsp;</p>

<p>As per media reports, the much-awaited Ram idol's 'Pran-Pratishtha' ceremony will also be live-streamed at different Indian embassies&nbsp;and consulates overseas. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the people at the occasion. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In August 2020, Ram Mandir's digital billboard was played at Times Square. The streaming took place on August 5 when Ram temple's 'Bhoomi Pujan' was performed by PM Modi in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Large screens to be set up for consecration ceremony</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has asked its workers to put up&nbsp;large screens on which the Ram temple's consecration will be telecast live&nbsp;at the booth level, as reported by Indian news agency ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-consecration-ceremony-indian-chef-to-prepare-7000-kg-ram-halwa-for-devotees-677466">Ram temple consecration ceremony: Indian chef to prepare 7000 kg ‘Ram halwa’ for devotees</a></p>

<p>The initiative is designed to give the general public a platform for witnessing the consecration of Ram Temple.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> USA: A digital billboard of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamMandir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamMandir</a> comes up in New York’s Times Square.<br />
<br />
Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed 'Bhoomi Pujan' of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamMandir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamMandir</a> in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/Gq4Gi2kfvR">pic.twitter.com/Gq4Gi2kfvR</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1291020988012834817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>“This way, the general public can have darshan of Shri Ram Lala and witness the consecration ceremony," reported news agency ANI, citing a source.</p>

<p>The party workers are likely to organise community feasts ('bhandara'), distribute blankets, or “contribute through donations in terms of food or fruits to help those in need," the source was quoted as saying by ANI.</p>

<p>The Vedic rituals for the Ram idol's Pran-Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony are set to start on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. Meanwhile, a 51-inch tall idol of Lord Ram made of Krishna Shila (Shyam Varn) stone has been carefully selected for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony. The idol, which has a dark hue, is likely to be a symbol of royalty, divinity and a child's pure innocence.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Ram Lalla idol to be placed on Jan 18</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-ram-lalla-idol-to-be-placed-on-jan-18-677400/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit has been selected to officiate the major rituals in the consecration ceremony of the Ram idol on January 22 in Ayodhya. The festivities will include a grand 1008 Hundi Mahayagya and thousands of devotees will be fed. For accommodating the devotees, who are set to arrive for the grand consecration, multiple tent cities are being erected across Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in India's temple city of Ayodhya on January 22 is set to be live-streamed at the iconic Times Square in New York City, United States, as per media reports.

The consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in India's temple city of Ayodhya on January 22 is set to be live-streamed at the iconic Times Square in New York City, United States, as per media reports. The ceremony will also be telecast at booth level across the entire country. As per media reports, the much-awaited Ram idol's 'Pran-Pratishtha' ceremony will also be live-streamed at different Indian embassies and consulates overseas. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the people at the occasion. In August 2020, Ram Mandir's digital billboard was played at Times Square. The streaming took place on August 5 when Ram temple's 'Bhoomi Pujan' was performed by PM Modi in Ayodhya. Large screens to be set up for consecration ceremony Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has asked its workers to put up large screens on which the Ram temple's consecration will be telecast live at the booth level, as reported by Indian news agency ANI. Also read: Ram temple consecration ceremony: Indian chef to prepare 7000 kg ‘Ram halwa’ for devotees The initiative is designed to give the general public a platform for witnessing the consecration of Ram Temple. #WATCH USA: A digital billboard of #RamMandir comes up in New York’s Times Square. Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed 'Bhoomi Pujan' of #RamMandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh earlier today. pic.twitter.com/Gq4Gi2kfvR — ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2020 × “This way, the general public can have darshan of Shri Ram Lala and witness the consecration ceremony," reported news agency ANI, citing a source. The party workers are likely to organise community feasts ('bhandara'), distribute blankets, or “contribute through donations in terms of food or fruits to help those in need," the source was quoted as saying by ANI. The Vedic rituals for the Ram idol's Pran-Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony are set to start on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. Meanwhile, a 51-inch tall idol of Lord Ram made of Krishna Shila (Shyam Varn) stone has been carefully selected for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony. The idol, which has a dark hue, is likely to be a symbol of royalty, divinity and a child's pure innocence. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Ram Lalla idol to be placed on Jan 18 Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit has been selected to officiate the major rituals in the consecration ceremony of the Ram idol on January 22 in Ayodhya. The festivities will include a grand 1008 Hundi Mahayagya and thousands of devotees will be fed. For accommodating the devotees, who are set to arrive for the grand consecration, multiple tent cities are being erected across Ayodhya. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir: Consecration ceremony in Ayodhya to be live-streamed at New York's Times Square

Sculpture by Arun Yogiraj to adorn the Ram Mandir. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Ex-Karnataka CM confirms selectin. Watch the video to know more!

Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Sculptor Yogiraj's idol selected for Ram Mandir in Ayodhya

<p>The ongoing construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects a nationwide appeal as its architectural design is influenced by both northern and southern Indian temple styles. Construction materials have been procured from diverse regions of India, such as Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and others.</p>

<p>The inauguration of the Ram temple is scheduled on&nbsp;January 22, and the event is anticipated to witness the presence of key dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. More than 6,000 individuals are expected to participate in the 'Pran Pratistha,' signifying the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ram Temple showcases a fusion of North and South Indian architectural influences. Diverse construction materials were meticulously selected from various states across India. The primary temple structure is crafted with the distinctive pink sandstone of Bharatpur in Rajasthan, while the intricate woodwork features premium teakwood sourced from Maharashtra's lush forests.</p>

<p>Granite elements incorporated in the temple construction originate from the states of Telangana and Karnataka. The flooring, a vital aspect of the temple's aesthetics, is chosen from Madhya Pradesh. The skilled workers engaged in the construction work hail from different states, showcasing a collaborative effort.</p>

<p>Moreover, the artistic elements such as sandstone carving, were entrusted to talented artisans from Odisha. The woodwork is managed by a company based in Andhra Pradesh with labour from Tamil Nadu, which exemplifies the diverse craftsmanship involved.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, the brassware is sourced from Uttar Pradesh and gold detailing from Maharashtra adds intricate details to the temple's grandeur. Notably, 42 bells, essential to the temple's rituals were sourced from Tamil Nadu and transported to Ayodhya, symbolising the harmonious integration of materials and craftsmanship from across India for the Ram Mandir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twelve-charred-to-death-in-indias-madhya-pradesh-as-bus-catches-fire-after-collision-with-dumper-674279">India: 12 charred to death in Madhya Pradesh as bus catches fire after collision with dumper</a></p>

<p><br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The ongoing construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects a nationwide appeal as its architectural design is influenced by both northern and southern Indian temple styles.

The ongoing construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects a nationwide appeal as its architectural design is influenced by both northern and southern Indian temple styles. Construction materials have been procured from diverse regions of India, such as Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and others. The inauguration of the Ram temple is scheduled on January 22, and the event is anticipated to witness the presence of key dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. More than 6,000 individuals are expected to participate in the 'Pran Pratistha,' signifying the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir. The Ram Temple showcases a fusion of North and South Indian architectural influences. Diverse construction materials were meticulously selected from various states across India. The primary temple structure is crafted with the distinctive pink sandstone of Bharatpur in Rajasthan, while the intricate woodwork features premium teakwood sourced from Maharashtra's lush forests. Granite elements incorporated in the temple construction originate from the states of Telangana and Karnataka. The flooring, a vital aspect of the temple's aesthetics, is chosen from Madhya Pradesh. The skilled workers engaged in the construction work hail from different states, showcasing a collaborative effort. Moreover, the artistic elements such as sandstone carving, were entrusted to talented artisans from Odisha. The woodwork is managed by a company based in Andhra Pradesh with labour from Tamil Nadu, which exemplifies the diverse craftsmanship involved. Furthermore, the brassware is sourced from Uttar Pradesh and gold detailing from Maharashtra adds intricate details to the temple's grandeur. Notably, 42 bells, essential to the temple's rituals were sourced from Tamil Nadu and transported to Ayodhya, symbolising the harmonious integration of materials and craftsmanship from across India for the Ram Mandir. Also read | India: 12 charred to death in Madhya Pradesh as bus catches fire after collision with dumper (With inputs from agencies)

From Rajasthan to Telangana, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is being constructed with material from all over India

A Hindu temple was defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans in California, US. The incident happened in Newark city.

US: Hindu temple defaced, Indian consulate in San Francisco demands investigation

<p>Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Monday (Dec 18) submitted the Gyanvapi mosque 'scientific survey'&nbsp;report to a court of the district judge in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi.</p>

<p>The next hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, but it's unclear whether or not the 1,000-page document by ASI will be shared with either side - the Hindu&nbsp;and the Muslim side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Gyanvapi Mosque is located in Varanasi, a holy place and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It was constructed by Aurangzeb in 1669 and the Hindu side claims that the mosque was built after demolishing an ancient temple of Shiva deity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-inaugurates-worlds-largest-meditation-centre-swarved-mahamandir-in-varanasi-670897">PM Modi inaugurates world’s largest meditation centre ‘Swarved Mahamandir’ in India’s Varanasi</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Advocate Madan Mohan Yadav, who is representing the Hindu petitioners, said, "The report in sealed cover was placed before the court by the ASI's standing counsel Amit Srivastava."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A site survey was launched after the Allahabad High Court upheld the Varanasi court order, stating that the survey was "necessary in the interest of justice". It added that the survey would benefit both sides in the dispute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Muslim side has opposed a public report, but advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi survey case, said that the "report cannot be filed in a sealed cover". He said, "ASI has violated the Supreme Court order."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've filed our petition before the court that the copy of the ASI report should be made available in the public domain and this issue will be raised during the hearing on December 21," Jain added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-of-india-suspends-78-opposition-mps-in-single-day-of-winter-session-670916">Parliament of India suspends 78 opposition MPs in single day of winter session</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India's EAM Jaishankar to review agreements across sectors with Russia&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Krishna Janmabhoomi case</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In another temple-related case, the Allahabad High Court on Monday reserved its order on the plea filed by the Muslim side seeking an adjournment of the scientific survey on the Shahi Idgah complex in Mathura, another popular religious city in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the High Court last week allowed a court-monitored survey of the Shahi Idgah premises, which adjoins the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court has approved a commission to inspect Mathura's disputed mosque and the survey will be carried out by three appointed commissioners who are advocates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Monday (Dec 18) submitted the Gyanvapi mosque 'scientific survey' report to a court of the district judge in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Monday (Dec 18) submitted the Gyanvapi mosque 'scientific survey' report to a court of the district judge in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi. The next hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, but it's unclear whether or not the 1,000-page document by ASI will be shared with either side - the Hindu and the Muslim side. The Gyanvapi Mosque is located in Varanasi, a holy place and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It was constructed by Aurangzeb in 1669 and the Hindu side claims that the mosque was built after demolishing an ancient temple of Shiva deity. Also read: PM Modi inaugurates world’s largest meditation centre ‘Swarved Mahamandir’ in India’s Varanasi Advocate Madan Mohan Yadav, who is representing the Hindu petitioners, said, "The report in sealed cover was placed before the court by the ASI's standing counsel Amit Srivastava." A site survey was launched after the Allahabad High Court upheld the Varanasi court order, stating that the survey was "necessary in the interest of justice". It added that the survey would benefit both sides in the dispute. The Muslim side has opposed a public report, but advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi survey case, said that the "report cannot be filed in a sealed cover". He said, "ASI has violated the Supreme Court order." "We've filed our petition before the court that the copy of the ASI report should be made available in the public domain and this issue will be raised during the hearing on December 21," Jain added. Also read: Parliament of India suspends 78 opposition MPs in single day of winter session Watch: India's EAM Jaishankar to review agreements across sectors with Russia × Krishna Janmabhoomi case In another temple-related case, the Allahabad High Court on Monday reserved its order on the plea filed by the Muslim side seeking an adjournment of the scientific survey on the Shahi Idgah complex in Mathura, another popular religious city in Uttar Pradesh. This comes after the High Court last week allowed a court-monitored survey of the Shahi Idgah premises, which adjoins the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura. The court has approved a commission to inspect Mathura's disputed mosque and the survey will be carried out by three appointed commissioners who are advocates. (With inputs from agencies)

India: ASI submits sealed cover report on scientific survey of ‘disputed’ Gyanvapi Mosque

<p>In a major discovery, twin temples which were built on top of one another were unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq. The newer temple, which was&nbsp;reportedly built in the Hellenistic era and dates back to the fourth century BC, was said to be linked to Alexander the Great.<br />
<br />
Inside the temple, the archaeologists found a fired brick which had an Aramaic and Greek inscription, that referred to "the giver of two brothers", which was seen as a possible reference made to the Macedonian king, who had ruled for 13 years from 336 BC&nbsp;to 323 BC and conquered much of the known world.<br />
<br />
The archaeologists, who are associated with the British Museum in London, found the older temple during excavations being carried out in Girsu, which is a Sumerian city and is also called Tello in southeastern Iraq.<br />
<br />
The excavations were being carried out as part of the museum's ongoing venture called The Girsu Project which focuses on gathering more information about the storied history of the city.<br />
<br />
The remnants of the older Sumerian temple were discovered buried "on the exact same spot" as the newer temple which was dedicated to the "Greek god Hercules and his Sumerian equivalent, the hero-god Ningirsu [also known as Ninurta]," said Sebastien Rey, an archaeologist and curator of Ancient Mesopotamia at the British Museum, who headed the excavation, while responding to Live Science.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-hint-indonesias-giant-hidden-pyramid-likely-to-be-the-oldest-in-the-world-654812">Archaeologists hint Indonesia's giant hidden pyramid likely to be the oldest in the world</a></p>

<p>The researchers said that the temple was built on the same site where one stood 1,500 years earlier and it was no coincidence. They added that the site must have some significance for the people of Mesopotamia.<br />
<br />
"It shows that the inhabitants of Babylonia in the [fourth] century BC&nbsp;had a vast knowledge of their history. The legacy of the Sumerians was still very vibrant,” said Rey.</p>

<h2><strong>Inscription of Zeus on the coin</strong></h2>

<p>The archaeologists, while exploring the dual temple site, discovered a silver drachm (an ancient Greek coin) which was buried underneath an altar or shrine, along with a brick with the two brothers' inscription.<br />
<br />
"The inscription is very interesting because it mentions an enigmatic Babylonian name written in Greek and Aramaic," said Rey. "The name 'Adadnadinakhe,' which means 'Adad, the giver of brothers,' was clearly chosen as a ceremonial title on account of its archaizing tone and symbolic connotations. All the evidence points to the fact that the name was extraordinarily rare,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/peru-archaeologists-unearth-1000-year-old-mummies-of-children-in-lima-661772/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The inscription found appeared to be that of Zeus, the Greek sky god, who has been a symbol of a lightning bolt and an eagle. The two symbols were found on the coin, which is likely to have been struck in Babylon "under Alexander the Great's authority," said Rey.<br />
<br />
"It shows Hercules in a youthful, clean-shaven portrait that strongly recalls conventional representations of Alexander on one side, with Zeus on the other,” he added.<br />
<br />
Zeus also "famously acknowledged Alexander as his son through the agency of the Ammon oracle,” he added. "He became quite literally the 'giver of brothers' because he affirmed a fraternal bond between Alexander and Heracles,” said Rey.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major discovery, twin temples which were built on top of one another were unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq. The newer temple, which was reportedly built in the Hellenistic era and dates back to the fourth century BC, was said to be linked to Alexander the Great.

In a major discovery, twin temples which were built on top of one another were unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq. The newer temple, which was reportedly built in the Hellenistic era and dates back to the fourth century BC, was said to be linked to Alexander the Great. Inside the temple, the archaeologists found a fired brick which had an Aramaic and Greek inscription, that referred to "the giver of two brothers", which was seen as a possible reference made to the Macedonian king, who had ruled for 13 years from 336 BC to 323 BC and conquered much of the known world. The archaeologists, who are associated with the British Museum in London, found the older temple during excavations being carried out in Girsu, which is a Sumerian city and is also called Tello in southeastern Iraq. The excavations were being carried out as part of the museum's ongoing venture called The Girsu Project which focuses on gathering more information about the storied history of the city. The remnants of the older Sumerian temple were discovered buried "on the exact same spot" as the newer temple which was dedicated to the "Greek god Hercules and his Sumerian equivalent, the hero-god Ningirsu [also known as Ninurta]," said Sebastien Rey, an archaeologist and curator of Ancient Mesopotamia at the British Museum, who headed the excavation, while responding to Live Science. Also read: Archaeologists hint Indonesia's giant hidden pyramid likely to be the oldest in the world The researchers said that the temple was built on the same site where one stood 1,500 years earlier and it was no coincidence. They added that the site must have some significance for the people of Mesopotamia. "It shows that the inhabitants of Babylonia in the [fourth] century BC had a vast knowledge of their history. The legacy of the Sumerians was still very vibrant,” said Rey. Inscription of Zeus on the coin The archaeologists, while exploring the dual temple site, discovered a silver drachm (an ancient Greek coin) which was buried underneath an altar or shrine, along with a brick with the two brothers' inscription. "The inscription is very interesting because it mentions an enigmatic Babylonian name written in Greek and Aramaic," said Rey. "The name 'Adadnadinakhe,' which means 'Adad, the giver of brothers,' was clearly chosen as a ceremonial title on account of its archaizing tone and symbolic connotations. All the evidence points to the fact that the name was extraordinarily rare,” he added. Watch: Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima The inscription found appeared to be that of Zeus, the Greek sky god, who has been a symbol of a lightning bolt and an eagle. The two symbols were found on the coin, which is likely to have been struck in Babylon "under Alexander the Great's authority," said Rey. "It shows Hercules in a youthful, clean-shaven portrait that strongly recalls conventional representations of Alexander on one side, with Zeus on the other,” he added. Zeus also "famously acknowledged Alexander as his son through the agency of the Ammon oracle,” he added. "He became quite literally the 'giver of brothers' because he affirmed a fraternal bond between Alexander and Heracles,” said Rey. (With inputs from agencies)

Twin temples linked to Hercules and Alexander the Great discovered on top of each other in Iraq

<p>Devotees at the Ananthapura Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy temple in Kerala were surprised&nbsp;when a new crocodile was spotted in the temple's lake, a year after the demise of the revered crocodile 'Babiya,' considered a 'reincarnated deity,' reported The Hindu.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Babiya's legacy</strong></h2>

<p>Babiya, the crocodile that had garnered popularity for its "divine connections," passed away on October 9, 2022, leaving a void in the hearts of devotees from Kerala and Karnataka.</p>

<p>Pilgrims used to visit the temple to witness daily rituals, as Babiya was known to consume the offerings for the deity.</p>

<p>Babiya's demise marked the end of an era, leading to contemplation among devotees about the spiritual significance of the crocodile's presence.</p>

<p>Uday Kumar Gatti, the temple's chairman, confirmed the presence of the new crocodile to the Hindu after a family reported its sighting on November 8, 2023.</p>

<p>Initially facing criticism on social media, the family's claims were later verified upon revisiting the temple on November 11, 2023.</p>

<p>This marks the third crocodile to make an appearance at the temple lake, with the new visitor appearing smaller in size than its predecessor.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhis-air-quality-in-very-poor-category-for-5th-day-in-a-row-ban-on-entry-of-these-buses-653805">Also read |&nbsp;India: Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category for 5th day in a row</a></p>

<h2><strong>From 1945 to present</strong></h2>

<p>In 1945, folklore tells of a British soldier shooting a crocodile at the temple lake. Shortly thereafter, Babiya emerged, gaining spiritual significance.</p>

<p>To validate the recent sighting, the temple committee sent photos to a Chennai-based crocodile expert, confirming the new crocodile's species' similarity to Babiya.</p>

<p>While the temple authorities have not yet started to feed the new crocodile, various departments, including the Forest department, have been informed about the reptile's sighting.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Babiya, the god's own crocodile of Sri Anantapura Lake temple has reached Vishnu Padam.<br />
<br />
The divine crocodile lived in the temple's lake for over 70years by eating the rice &amp; jaggery prasadam of Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy &amp; guarded the temple.<br />
<br />
May she attain Sadgati, Om Shanti! <a href="https://t.co/UCLoSNDiyE">pic.twitter.com/UCLoSNDiyE</a></p>
— Shobha Karandlaje (@ShobhaBJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShobhaBJP/status/1579324069509750784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>A committee meeting is scheduled to discuss the implications of the crocodile's presence in the temple waters, rekindling the spiritual connection many felt with the late Babiya.</p>

<p>The unexpected reappearance has brought about a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder among both the temple committee members and devoted pilgrims.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Kerala serial blasts | Blasts target prayer meet</strong></p>

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Devotees at the Ananthapura Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy temple in Kerala were surprised when a new crocodile was spotted in the temple's lake, a year after the demise of the revered crocodile 'Babiya,' considered a 'reincarnated deity,' reported The Hindu.

Devotees at the Ananthapura Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy temple in Kerala were surprised when a new crocodile was spotted in the temple's lake, a year after the demise of the revered crocodile 'Babiya,' considered a 'reincarnated deity,' reported The Hindu. Babiya's legacy Babiya, the crocodile that had garnered popularity for its "divine connections," passed away on October 9, 2022, leaving a void in the hearts of devotees from Kerala and Karnataka. Pilgrims used to visit the temple to witness daily rituals, as Babiya was known to consume the offerings for the deity. Babiya's demise marked the end of an era, leading to contemplation among devotees about the spiritual significance of the crocodile's presence. Uday Kumar Gatti, the temple's chairman, confirmed the presence of the new crocodile to the Hindu after a family reported its sighting on November 8, 2023. Initially facing criticism on social media, the family's claims were later verified upon revisiting the temple on November 11, 2023. This marks the third crocodile to make an appearance at the temple lake, with the new visitor appearing smaller in size than its predecessor. Also read | India: Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category for 5th day in a row From 1945 to present In 1945, folklore tells of a British soldier shooting a crocodile at the temple lake. Shortly thereafter, Babiya emerged, gaining spiritual significance. To validate the recent sighting, the temple committee sent photos to a Chennai-based crocodile expert, confirming the new crocodile's species' similarity to Babiya. While the temple authorities have not yet started to feed the new crocodile, various departments, including the Forest department, have been informed about the reptile's sighting. Babiya, the god's own crocodile of Sri Anantapura Lake temple has reached Vishnu Padam. The divine crocodile lived in the temple's lake for over 70years by eating the rice & jaggery prasadam of Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy & guarded the temple. May she attain Sadgati, Om Shanti! pic.twitter.com/UCLoSNDiyE — Shobha Karandlaje (@ShobhaBJP) October 10, 2022 × A committee meeting is scheduled to discuss the implications of the crocodile's presence in the temple waters, rekindling the spiritual connection many felt with the late Babiya. The unexpected reappearance has brought about a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder among both the temple committee members and devoted pilgrims. (With inputs from agencies) Also watch | Kerala serial blasts | Blasts target prayer meet

India: New crocodile appears in Kerala temple lake a year after demise of revered Babiya

<p>The world's largest modern Hindu temple outside India, the New Jersey Akshardham, opened on Sunday (Oct 8). This extraordinary architectural marvel, sprawling across a 126-acre tract, has been brought to life through the tireless efforts of artisans and volunteers who dedicated approximately 4.7 million hours to hand-carve about two million cubic feet of stone, AP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Comprising four varieties of marble from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria, these precious materials embarked on an incredible journey, traveling first to India and then traversing over 8,000 miles across the world to reach their destination in New Jersey. Once in place, these meticulously carved pieces were assembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle to create this monumental Hindu temple.</p>

<h2><strong>A symbol of spiritual dedication</strong></h2>

<p>The New Jersey Akshardham is a project by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a global religious and civic organisation within the Swaminarayan sect.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walmart-relaxes-requirement-of-degree-for-some-of-its-jobs-643983">Walmart relaxes requirement of degree for some of its jobs</a></p>

<p>This temple marked the third "Akshardham" or "abode of the divine" built by BAPS, following in New Delhi and Gujarat, where BAPS is headquartered. The organisation, which is celebrating its 50th year in North America next year, oversees a vast network of more than 1,200 temples and 3,850 centres worldwide.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The journey to create the New Jersey Akshardham was not without its challenges. In 2021, a civil lawsuit alleged forced labour, meager wages, and grim working conditions during the temple's construction, sparking controversy and criticism. Despite these hurdles, the temple stands today as a symbol of resilience and faith, drawing devotees and admirers from across the nation.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-opposition-labour-on-course-for-landslide-election-victory-poll-predicts-643979">UK's opposition Labour on course for landslide election victory, poll predicts</a></p>

<p>Families from all corners of the country have flocked to the temple campus, eager for a sneak peek. Devotees have been bowing in reverence to each other and to monks in saffron robes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-nationals-staying-abroad-worried-as-war-escalates-in-gaza-643995">Israel-Palestine conflict: Nationals staying abroad worried as war escalates in Gaza</a></strong></p>

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<p>Rituals and ceremonies have been performed in front of the awe-inspiring 49-foot-tall statue of Bhagwan Nilkanth Varni, later known as Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the sect that initiated a moral and spiritual renaissance in western India.</p>

<p>Other worshippers have been seen prostrating on the floor, pressing their foreheads to the ground in deep reverence. AP reported that others have been engaging in meditation and lighting incense before the deity, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Hindu temples in the United States.</p>

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The world's largest modern Hindu temple outside India, the New Jersey Akshardham, opened on Sunday (Oct 8). This extraordinary architectural marvel, sprawling across a 126-acre tract, has been brought to life through the tireless efforts of artisans and volunteers who dedicated approximately 4.

The world's largest modern Hindu temple outside India, the New Jersey Akshardham, opened on Sunday (Oct 8). This extraordinary architectural marvel, sprawling across a 126-acre tract, has been brought to life through the tireless efforts of artisans and volunteers who dedicated approximately 4.7 million hours to hand-carve about two million cubic feet of stone, AP reported. Comprising four varieties of marble from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria, these precious materials embarked on an incredible journey, traveling first to India and then traversing over 8,000 miles across the world to reach their destination in New Jersey. Once in place, these meticulously carved pieces were assembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle to create this monumental Hindu temple. A symbol of spiritual dedication The New Jersey Akshardham is a project by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a global religious and civic organisation within the Swaminarayan sect. Also Read | Walmart relaxes requirement of degree for some of its jobs This temple marked the third "Akshardham" or "abode of the divine" built by BAPS, following in New Delhi and Gujarat, where BAPS is headquartered. The organisation, which is celebrating its 50th year in North America next year, oversees a vast network of more than 1,200 temples and 3,850 centres worldwide. Controversy The journey to create the New Jersey Akshardham was not without its challenges. In 2021, a civil lawsuit alleged forced labour, meager wages, and grim working conditions during the temple's construction, sparking controversy and criticism. Despite these hurdles, the temple stands today as a symbol of resilience and faith, drawing devotees and admirers from across the nation. Also Read | UK's opposition Labour on course for landslide election victory, poll predicts Families from all corners of the country have flocked to the temple campus, eager for a sneak peek. Devotees have been bowing in reverence to each other and to monks in saffron robes. Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict: Nationals staying abroad worried as war escalates in Gaza × Rituals and ceremonies have been performed in front of the awe-inspiring 49-foot-tall statue of Bhagwan Nilkanth Varni, later known as Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the sect that initiated a moral and spiritual renaissance in western India. Other worshippers have been seen prostrating on the floor, pressing their foreheads to the ground in deep reverence. AP reported that others have been engaging in meditation and lighting incense before the deity, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Hindu temples in the United States. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

World's largest modern Hindu temple outside India opens in New Jersey

Tirupati Balaji temple: It's visited by millions of Hindu devotees from around the world. It's also known for its delicious offerings the laddus. If you're from the Indian subcontinent, you know what this means. But, here it is being given a very political connotation.

India: Laddu politics spills from India's Andhra Pradesh into Karnataka

India's largest temple trust is planning to establish shrines in towns across the nation that will be replicas of the original Temple. The trust is going beyond the famous Venkateshwara temple in the Andhra Pradesh state of South India.

TTD plans a pan-India presence of the temple | India

<p>A German tourist, who had gatecrashed and stripped naked at a temple in Bali while a sacred performance was going on, was arrested and sent by Indonesian officials to receive mental health treatment, according to a report published in South China Morning Post.<br />
<br />
Darja Tuschinski, who is 28 years old, also faced the charges of failing to pay hotel bills when she was vacationing on the island.<br />
<br />
The incident has taken place at a time when the country is implementing stricter rules for tourists who are caught misbehaving.<br />
<br />
The South Asian nations have seen a rise in the number of foreign visitors who are deported for making gestures or engaging in actions that appear offensive to the religious sensibilities of Balinese Hindus, according to the outlet.<br />
<br />
Speaking to South China Morning Post, Police spokesman Stefanus Satake Bayu said, "The foreigner is depressed because she has no money to finance her stay in Bali."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-bali-welcomes-chinese-tourists-after-three-years-of-covid-hiatus-558383">In pics | Bali welcomes Chinese tourists after three years of Covid hiatus</a></p>

<p>According to the videos and photos circulating on social media, the woman went naked at the Saraswati Hindu temple in Ubud and was seen standing near the dancers.<br />
<br />
The 28-year-old also made attempts to enter the shrine's inner sanctuary till she was stopped by a security guard. According to the outlet, the tourist got into an argument with the staff members and then entered the outdoor arena forcefully, when she stripped herself and stood near the dancers.</p>

<h2><strong>No charges against the tourist</strong></h2>

<p>The Indonesian police further stated that Tuschinski was roaming naked around the resort's guest areas, she was staying. However, the police have decided not to press any charges against the tourist.<br />
<br />
A ritual was organised by the temple to "purify" the sacred space. Tuschinski also denied to board a flight back to Germany and hence, was eventually sent to a mental hospital in Bangli town.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ladakh opens forbidden zones for tourists</strong></p>

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<p>The parliament of Indonesia had approved legislation in December that had outlawed sex outside marriage. As per AFP, people indulging in sex outside marriage can face one year of prison while those caught living together could face six months in imprisonment.<br />
<br />
However, the tourists travelling to Indonesia will not be charged as per the new law which criminalised sex outside marriage, stated officials.<br />
<br />
Those who "visit or live in Bali would not need to worry with regard to the entry into force of the Indonesian Criminal Code," said Bali's Governor Wayan Koster.<br />
<br />
The government of Bali would ensure "there will be no checking on marital status upon check-in at any tourism accommodation, such as hotels, villas, apartments, guest houses, lodges and spas," he further stated.<br />
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A German tourist, who had gatecrashed and stripped naked at a temple in Bali while a sacred performance was going on, was arrested and sent by Indonesian officials to receive mental health treatment, according to a report published in South China Morning Post.

A German tourist, who had gatecrashed and stripped naked at a temple in Bali while a sacred performance was going on, was arrested and sent by Indonesian officials to receive mental health treatment, according to a report published in South China Morning Post. Darja Tuschinski, who is 28 years old, also faced the charges of failing to pay hotel bills when she was vacationing on the island. The incident has taken place at a time when the country is implementing stricter rules for tourists who are caught misbehaving. The South Asian nations have seen a rise in the number of foreign visitors who are deported for making gestures or engaging in actions that appear offensive to the religious sensibilities of Balinese Hindus, according to the outlet. Speaking to South China Morning Post, Police spokesman Stefanus Satake Bayu said, "The foreigner is depressed because she has no money to finance her stay in Bali." ALSO READ | In pics | Bali welcomes Chinese tourists after three years of Covid hiatus According to the videos and photos circulating on social media, the woman went naked at the Saraswati Hindu temple in Ubud and was seen standing near the dancers. The 28-year-old also made attempts to enter the shrine's inner sanctuary till she was stopped by a security guard. According to the outlet, the tourist got into an argument with the staff members and then entered the outdoor arena forcefully, when she stripped herself and stood near the dancers. No charges against the tourist The Indonesian police further stated that Tuschinski was roaming naked around the resort's guest areas, she was staying. However, the police have decided not to press any charges against the tourist. A ritual was organised by the temple to "purify" the sacred space. Tuschinski also denied to board a flight back to Germany and hence, was eventually sent to a mental hospital in Bangli town. WATCH | Gravitas: Ladakh opens forbidden zones for tourists The parliament of Indonesia had approved legislation in December that had outlawed sex outside marriage. As per AFP, people indulging in sex outside marriage can face one year of prison while those caught living together could face six months in imprisonment. However, the tourists travelling to Indonesia will not be charged as per the new law which criminalised sex outside marriage, stated officials. Those who "visit or live in Bali would not need to worry with regard to the entry into force of the Indonesian Criminal Code," said Bali's Governor Wayan Koster. The government of Bali would ensure "there will be no checking on marital status upon check-in at any tourism accommodation, such as hotels, villas, apartments, guest houses, lodges and spas," he further stated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bali: German tourist sent for mental health treatment after stripping naked at temple

<p>In yet another incident of Hindu temple vandalisation in Australia, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Swaminarayan temple in Western Sydney’s Rosehill suburb came under attack by Khalistan supporters on Friday, as per Australian media reports.&nbsp;This comes after many such incidents carried by Khalistan supporters had been reported in the last few months in several parts of Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per The Australia Today media outlet, the Sydney incident took place in the early hours of Friday morning.&nbsp;The temple was vandalised by anti-India slogans written on the temple's front walls which the temple management found. A Khalistan flag was also found flying on the temple's gate.&nbsp;Graffiti reading “Declare Modi Terrorist (BBC)” was also written on the wall.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In conversation with The Australia Today, a regular temple goer Sejal Patel, who lives in Harris Park said, “When I came this morning for prayers I saw ugly vandalism on the front wall.”</p>

<p>As per reports, the matter was brought to the attention of New South Wales (NSW) police by temple management at around 7 am.</p>

<p>Afterwards, NSW Police officers visited the temple premises and the temple management helped the police with the CCTV footage to aide them in their investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belgium-arrests-foil-suspected-jihadist-terrorist-attack-589025">Belgium arrests foil suspected jihadist 'terrorist attack'</a></p>

<p>Khalistan supporters have been carrying out these types of attacks on Hindu temples. Only this year, three Hindu Temples were vandalised in Melbourne and two Hindu Temples in Brisbane were vandalised by Khalistan supporters.</p>

<p>In the Australian city of Brisbane, the Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple was attacked by pro-Khalistan supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The walls of the revered ISCKON temple in Melbourne's Albert Park were vandalised on 23 January with anti-India graffiti. On 16 January, the historic Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs, Victoria, was vandalised. Later, on 12 January, the Swaminarayan temple in Melbourne was defaced by anti-social elements with anti-India graffiti. A fourth attack took place in Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries</strong></p>

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<p>The attacks on Hindu temples are always received with a hard-hitting condemnation from India. New Delhi has raised the issue with the Australian government.</p>

<p>In February, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Australia. During his visit, he met his Australian counterpart Penny Wong and emphasised the need for vigilance against "radical activities" targeting the Indian community in Australia.</p>

<p>"Noted the forward movement on our bilateral agenda. Emphasised the need for vigilance against radical activities targeting the Indian community," Jaishankar had tweeted after his meeting with Wong in Sydney.</p>

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In yet another incident of Hindu temple vandalisation in Australia, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Swaminarayan temple in Western Sydney’s Rosehill suburb came under attack by Khalistan supporters on Friday, as per Australian media reports.

In yet another incident of Hindu temple vandalisation in Australia, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Swaminarayan temple in Western Sydney’s Rosehill suburb came under attack by Khalistan supporters on Friday, as per Australian media reports. This comes after many such incidents carried by Khalistan supporters had been reported in the last few months in several parts of Australia. As per The Australia Today media outlet, the Sydney incident took place in the early hours of Friday morning. The temple was vandalised by anti-India slogans written on the temple's front walls which the temple management found. A Khalistan flag was also found flying on the temple's gate. Graffiti reading “Declare Modi Terrorist (BBC)” was also written on the wall. Also Read | US: Worker killed after pharmaceutical plant explosion plant in Massachusetts In conversation with The Australia Today, a regular temple goer Sejal Patel, who lives in Harris Park said, “When I came this morning for prayers I saw ugly vandalism on the front wall.” As per reports, the matter was brought to the attention of New South Wales (NSW) police by temple management at around 7 am. Afterwards, NSW Police officers visited the temple premises and the temple management helped the police with the CCTV footage to aide them in their investigation. Also Read | Belgium arrests foil suspected jihadist 'terrorist attack' Khalistan supporters have been carrying out these types of attacks on Hindu temples. Only this year, three Hindu Temples were vandalised in Melbourne and two Hindu Temples in Brisbane were vandalised by Khalistan supporters. In the Australian city of Brisbane, the Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple was attacked by pro-Khalistan supporters. The walls of the revered ISCKON temple in Melbourne's Albert Park were vandalised on 23 January with anti-India graffiti. On 16 January, the historic Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs, Victoria, was vandalised. Later, on 12 January, the Swaminarayan temple in Melbourne was defaced by anti-social elements with anti-India graffiti. A fourth attack took place in Brisbane. Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries × The attacks on Hindu temples are always received with a hard-hitting condemnation from India. New Delhi has raised the issue with the Australian government. In February, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Australia. During his visit, he met his Australian counterpart Penny Wong and emphasised the need for vigilance against "radical activities" targeting the Indian community in Australia. "Noted the forward movement on our bilateral agenda. Emphasised the need for vigilance against radical activities targeting the Indian community," Jaishankar had tweeted after his meeting with Wong in Sydney. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BAPS Swaminarayan temple vandalised in Sydney by Khalistan supporters: Reports

The divine wedding of Meenakshi (Goddess Parvati) with Lord Shiva is celebrated as Meenakshi Thirukalyanam. The wedding is a part of the Chithirai Festival which is an annual event in Madurai.

Chithirai festival: Procession ceremony held at Meenakshi Amman Temple in India's Madurai

<p>Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Gunawardena, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagalay and other dignitaries, issued the cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meditation centre, which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic Rramayana, will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-worlds-language-diversity-at-risk-says-study-585261">Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study</a></p>

<p>"H.E Prime Minister @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic #ramayana. The Meditation Centre will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists from #India and other places," the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">H.E Prime Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCRGunawardena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCRGunawardena</a> accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple, (1/2) <a href="https://t.co/3YwAOYFqXP">pic.twitter.com/3YwAOYFqXP</a></p>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1650060137116352513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ashok Vatika is a garden in Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) that is believed to have been the location where the demon king Ravana held Sita captive in the Hindu epic, Ramayana.</p>

<p>According to the story, Rama and his brother Lakshmana, along with their devotee Hanuman, went to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana's captivity. In the Ashok Vatika.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskyy-signs-law-banning-russian-place-names-in-ukraine-aims-to-restore-national-identity-585227">Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity</a></p>

<p>The garden was named after the Ashoka tree, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is said that Hanuman uprooted the tree to show his strength.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story</strong></p>

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<p>Today, there is a temple in Sri Lanka called the Seetha Amman Temple, which is believed to be located at the site of the Ashok Vatika. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Rama and Sita.</p>

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Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond. Prime Minister Gunawardena, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagalay and other dignitaries, issued the cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka on Sunday. The meditation centre, which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic Rramayana, will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists. Also Read | Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study "H.E Prime Minister @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic #ramayana. The Meditation Centre will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists from #India and other places," the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted. H.E Prime Minister of #SriLanka @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple, (1/2) pic.twitter.com/3YwAOYFqXP — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) April 23, 2023 × Ashok Vatika is a garden in Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) that is believed to have been the location where the demon king Ravana held Sita captive in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the story, Rama and his brother Lakshmana, along with their devotee Hanuman, went to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana's captivity. In the Ashok Vatika. Also Read | Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity The garden was named after the Ashoka tree, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is said that Hanuman uprooted the tree to show his strength. Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story × Today, there is a temple in Sri Lanka called the Seetha Amman Temple, which is believed to be located at the site of the Ashok Vatika. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Rama and Sita. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sita temple at Sri Lanka's Ashok Vatika, linked to Hindu epic Ramayana, gets special cover

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<p>Indian police in the northeastern state of Assam have arrested five men in connection with&nbsp;the alleged sacrifice of a woman at a Hindu temple in the capital city of Guwahati in 2019. The discovery of the woman's headless body had perplexed the officers and the authorities at the time.</p>

<p>Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah on Tuesday said it was only after the body of the woman was identified in January earlier this year that the cold case was thrown into overdrive. A total of 12 culprits took part in the killing while seven remain at large.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The five planned the killing of the woman. A total of 12 people took part," Barah was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India's richest shrine Tirupati Balaji temple fires 1,300 contract workers</strong></p>

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<p>An individual named Pradeep Pathak, a 52-year-old government worker, hailing from Varanasi, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been identified as the lynchpin of the killing. He allegedly undertook the sacrifice to mark the anniversary of his brother's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The accused apparently believed that the sacrifice would appease the soul of the deceased,” added Barah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to authorities, it was 64-year-old Shanti Shaw that was decapitated with a machete in 2019 at the Kamakhya Temple - one of the primary Shakti peeths (sacred place of eternal power) in Hinduism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She had travelled to the temple to pray and attend the famous Ambubachi Mela before her tragic demise made the news. The body without the head was discovered on June 19-20, 2019. A man named Suresh Shaw from the state of West Bengal claimed that his mother had visited the temple but never returned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-state-to-build-3000-temples-to-protect-and-propagate-hindu-faith-567232" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Indian state to build 3,000 temples to ‘protect and propagate Hindu faith’</strong></a></p>

<p>According to local media reports, the police have discovered a bag belonging to the victim, along with the Aadhar card and a train ticket to Guwahati.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Between 2014 and 2021, as many as 103 cases of human sacrifice have been reported in India, according to National Crime Records Bureau data.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian police in the northeastern state of Assam have arrested five men in connection with the alleged sacrifice of a woman at a Hindu temple in the capital city of Guwahati in 2019.

Indian police in the northeastern state of Assam have arrested five men in connection with the alleged sacrifice of a woman at a Hindu temple in the capital city of Guwahati in 2019. The discovery of the woman's headless body had perplexed the officers and the authorities at the time. Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah on Tuesday said it was only after the body of the woman was identified in January earlier this year that the cold case was thrown into overdrive. A total of 12 culprits took part in the killing while seven remain at large. “The five planned the killing of the woman. A total of 12 people took part," Barah was quoted as saying by AFP. ALSO WATCH | India's richest shrine Tirupati Balaji temple fires 1,300 contract workers An individual named Pradeep Pathak, a 52-year-old government worker, hailing from Varanasi, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been identified as the lynchpin of the killing. He allegedly undertook the sacrifice to mark the anniversary of his brother's death. “The accused apparently believed that the sacrifice would appease the soul of the deceased,” added Barah. According to authorities, it was 64-year-old Shanti Shaw that was decapitated with a machete in 2019 at the Kamakhya Temple - one of the primary Shakti peeths (sacred place of eternal power) in Hinduism. She had travelled to the temple to pray and attend the famous Ambubachi Mela before her tragic demise made the news. The body without the head was discovered on June 19-20, 2019. A man named Suresh Shaw from the state of West Bengal claimed that his mother had visited the temple but never returned. ALSO READ | Indian state to build 3,000 temples to ‘protect and propagate Hindu faith’ According to local media reports, the police have discovered a bag belonging to the victim, along with the Aadhar card and a train ticket to Guwahati. Between 2014 and 2021, as many as 103 cases of human sacrifice have been reported in India, according to National Crime Records Bureau data. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Police arrest five over decapitating woman at temple as sacrifice in 2019

<p>At least&nbsp;35 people have been killed after the roof of a stepwell collapsed at a temple in Madhya Pradesh's Indore on Thursday (March 30).&nbsp;The stepwell roof at the Beleshwar Mahadev temple could not carry&nbsp;the weight of a large crowd.</p>

<p>As per initial reports, more than 30 people fell into the stepwell of the Shri Beleshwar Mahadev Jhulelal Temple&nbsp;resulting in a serious accident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Total of 35 people died, one missing and 14 people have been rescued. Two people returned home safely after getting treatment. The search operation to trace persons reported missing is underway," Indore Collector Ilayaraja T said, as quoted by news agency ANI.</p>

<p>"The 18 hours long rescue operation started at around 12:30 on Thursday, and is still ongoing," he added.</p>

<p>The incident happened on the day of Ram Navami, an auspicious day as per the&nbsp;Hindu calendar&nbsp;when worshippers throng the temple, reported Zee News.</p>

<p>The temple is situated in Sneh Nagar, one of Indore's oldest residential neighbourhoods, and is run by a private trust. The tragedy might have been avoided had the Indore Municipal Corporation responded to local complaints, reported NDTV.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer:&nbsp;WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</em></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Temple floor sinks during Ram Navami celebrations, several trapped <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indore</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indoreincident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indoreincident</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indoretemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indoretemple</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/zmSUYkLr1R">pic.twitter.com/zmSUYkLr1R</a></p>
— kavita kavi (@kavi_kv3883056) <a href="https://twitter.com/kavi_kv3883056/status/1641355378188222467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, announced 5 lakh in compensation for the relatives of the deceased and 50,000 for those hurt in the unfortunate event.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "It's an unfortunate incident. A rescue operation is underway. 10 people were rescued safely while nine are trapped and will be rescued. Efforts are underway to rescue other people," says MP CM SS Chouhan on stepwell collapse at Indore temple <a href="https://t.co/E8Pti0E5YP">pic.twitter.com/E8Pti0E5YP</a></p>
— ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_MP_CG_RJ/status/1641356629470838784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish at the mishap and tweeted,&nbsp;“Extremely pained by the mishap in Indore. Spoke to CM Shivraj Chouhan Ji and took an update on the situation. The state government is spearheading rescue and relief work at a quick pace. My prayers with all those affected and their families.”<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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At least 35 people have been killed after the roof of a stepwell collapsed at a temple in Madhya Pradesh's Indore on Thursday (March 30). The stepwell roof at the Beleshwar Mahadev temple could not carry the weight of a large crowd.

At least 35 people have been killed after the roof of a stepwell collapsed at a temple in Madhya Pradesh's Indore on Thursday (March 30). The stepwell roof at the Beleshwar Mahadev temple could not carry the weight of a large crowd. As per initial reports, more than 30 people fell into the stepwell of the Shri Beleshwar Mahadev Jhulelal Temple resulting in a serious accident. "Total of 35 people died, one missing and 14 people have been rescued. Two people returned home safely after getting treatment. The search operation to trace persons reported missing is underway," Indore Collector Ilayaraja T said, as quoted by news agency ANI. "The 18 hours long rescue operation started at around 12:30 on Thursday, and is still ongoing," he added. The incident happened on the day of Ram Navami, an auspicious day as per the Hindu calendar when worshippers throng the temple, reported Zee News. The temple is situated in Sneh Nagar, one of Indore's oldest residential neighbourhoods, and is run by a private trust. The tragedy might have been avoided had the Indore Municipal Corporation responded to local complaints, reported NDTV. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Temple floor sinks during Ram Navami celebrations, several trapped #Indore #indoreincident #indoretemple #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/zmSUYkLr1R — kavita kavi (@kavi_kv3883056) March 30, 2023 × Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, announced 5 lakh in compensation for the relatives of the deceased and 50,000 for those hurt in the unfortunate event. #WATCH | "It's an unfortunate incident. A rescue operation is underway. 10 people were rescued safely while nine are trapped and will be rescued. Efforts are underway to rescue other people," says MP CM SS Chouhan on stepwell collapse at Indore temple pic.twitter.com/E8Pti0E5YP — ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) March 30, 2023 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish at the mishap and tweeted, “Extremely pained by the mishap in Indore. Spoke to CM Shivraj Chouhan Ji and took an update on the situation. The state government is spearheading rescue and relief work at a quick pace. My prayers with all those affected and their families.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indore temple mishap: 35 dead, several still trapped as stepwell cover caves in

At least 13 people were killed and several were injured following the collapse of the roof of a stepwell at a temple in Madhya Pradesh's Indore on Thursday. The incident occurred during the Ram Navami celebrations at the Beleshwar Mahadev Jhulelal Temple in the Patel Nagar area.

India: 13 dead after stepwell collapses at Indore temple, CM announces relief

<p>The Jammu and Kashmir government has started renovating all heritage religious sites in the Kashmir region. The 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar is also being renovated and restored to its original glory. The project is expected to be completed by April this year.</p>

<p>Located inside a water body on an island in Srinagar's Baba Demb area, Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple was completely damaged in the 2014 floods and now the archaeology department is making sure to restore the temple as per its exact original architecture when it was made.</p>

<p>''Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is being restored in the Baba Demb area. I opened the temple for the first time after decades in 2004 with the support of the majority community, otherwise, it wasn't possible to do so at that point in time. But the majority community has always given support to these things, and now Sharda temple has been opened as well, it's a great step. The area will be developed and a lot of people from the south will come to visit. it will be better for Kashmir, and it will be peaceful again,'' said Sanjay Saraf, leader of Lok Jan Shakti Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government is spending over Rs 16 million on the temple and the project has been handed over to the roads and building department. All the renovation of&nbsp;the temple is being done in consultation with the Kashmiri Pandit community and is being completed in three phases.</p>

<p>''This temple was damaged in the 2014 floods, these works are generally done by the archaeology department, and they have asked us to work on it. We are the R&amp;B Department. The total project cost is Rs 1.62 crores. There are two parts to the renovation, the first is the main part of the temple, the restoration has to be done exactly to what it looked like earlier. We are using the same materials and making sure it's made exactly the way it was. The second part is the guard room construction. We are hopeful to finish this by April end,'' said Muzaffar Ahmad, AEE, Roads and Building department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kashmir has always shown the best examples of brotherhood to the rest of the world. The caretaker of this 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is a Muslim man.&nbsp;Riyaz Ahmad&nbsp;has been taking care of Hindu temples for a long time and it's been over a year since he has been taking care of this temple.</p>

<p>''I am thankful to the government that they have come forward to restore this temple which got damaged in the 2014 floods. I have been working with a Hindu organisation since 2008 and I am grateful to the government that they have decided to restore the temple. I want the sound of Morning Azaan and temple bells ring together to bring the communities together. It used to be like that earlier and it should be again like that only. I request all the Pandit community members to come back and live happily here. If the Sikhs in Punjab are cultivating rice for the rest of the country, why can't I take care of Hindu temples? We are one, Hindu, Muslim Sikh, everyone,'' said Riyaz Ahmad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the temple is located on an Island, the workers faced a lot of hardship transporting the construction material to the temple courtyard. Everything was taken in boats with utmost care.&nbsp;<br />
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The Jammu and Kashmir government has started renovating all heritage religious sites in the Kashmir region. The 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar is also being renovated and restored to its original glory.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has started renovating all heritage religious sites in the Kashmir region. The 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar is also being renovated and restored to its original glory. The project is expected to be completed by April this year. Located inside a water body on an island in Srinagar's Baba Demb area, Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple was completely damaged in the 2014 floods and now the archaeology department is making sure to restore the temple as per its exact original architecture when it was made. ''Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is being restored in the Baba Demb area. I opened the temple for the first time after decades in 2004 with the support of the majority community, otherwise, it wasn't possible to do so at that point in time. But the majority community has always given support to these things, and now Sharda temple has been opened as well, it's a great step. The area will be developed and a lot of people from the south will come to visit. it will be better for Kashmir, and it will be peaceful again,'' said Sanjay Saraf, leader of Lok Jan Shakti Party. The government is spending over Rs 16 million on the temple and the project has been handed over to the roads and building department. All the renovation of the temple is being done in consultation with the Kashmiri Pandit community and is being completed in three phases. ''This temple was damaged in the 2014 floods, these works are generally done by the archaeology department, and they have asked us to work on it. We are the R&B Department. The total project cost is Rs 1.62 crores. There are two parts to the renovation, the first is the main part of the temple, the restoration has to be done exactly to what it looked like earlier. We are using the same materials and making sure it's made exactly the way it was. The second part is the guard room construction. We are hopeful to finish this by April end,'' said Muzaffar Ahmad, AEE, Roads and Building department. Kashmir has always shown the best examples of brotherhood to the rest of the world. The caretaker of this 700-year-old Mangaleshwar Bhairav Temple is a Muslim man. Riyaz Ahmad has been taking care of Hindu temples for a long time and it's been over a year since he has been taking care of this temple. ''I am thankful to the government that they have come forward to restore this temple which got damaged in the 2014 floods. I have been working with a Hindu organisation since 2008 and I am grateful to the government that they have decided to restore the temple. I want the sound of Morning Azaan and temple bells ring together to bring the communities together. It used to be like that earlier and it should be again like that only. I request all the Pandit community members to come back and live happily here. If the Sikhs in Punjab are cultivating rice for the rest of the country, why can't I take care of Hindu temples? We are one, Hindu, Muslim Sikh, everyone,'' said Riyaz Ahmad. Since the temple is located on an Island, the workers faced a lot of hardship transporting the construction material to the temple courtyard. Everything was taken in boats with utmost care. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: 700-year-old temple being restored in Jammu & Kashmir’s Srinagar

<p>Indian&nbsp;Consulate in Toronto, Canada expressed its displeasure at defacement of a Ram Mandir in&nbsp;Mississauga. The incident at the temple took place on February 13 (Monday). The anti-India graffiti at the temple was allegedly made by 'Khalistani extremists'. India has urged Canadian authorities to find the perpetrators.</p>

<p>"We strongly condemn the defacing of Ram Mandir in Mississauga with anti-India graffiti. We have requested Canadian authorities to investigate the incident and take prompt action on perpetrators," India's Consulate in Toronto tweeted on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"Vandalism occurred overnight (February 13th) at the Shri Ram Mandir in Mississauga, Ontario Canada. We at the Ram Mandir are very disturbed by this occurrence and we are working with the appropriate law enforcement authority on this matter," the Facebook page of the temple said.</p>

<p>Pro-Khalistani slogans and anti-India graffiti was seen painted the walls of the temple.</p>

<p>This is not the first time a Hindu temple was defaced in Canada. Last month, a temple in Brampton, Canada was painted with hate-filled anti-India messages. This had caused an outrage among the Indian-Canadian community.</p>

<p>In September, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Toronto was defaced by "Canadian Khalistani extremists".</p>

<p>The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is a spiritual, volunteer-driven faith dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service.</p>

<p>Last September, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement condemning the rise of hate crimes against Indians and anti-India activities in Canada, expressing their concern with stern language.</p>

<p>Statistics Canada reported a 72 per cent increase in hate crimes based on religion, sexual orientation, and race between 2019 and 2021.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Consulate in Toronto, Canada expressed its displeasure at defacement of a Ram Mandir in Mississauga. The incident at the temple took place on February 13 (Monday).

Indian Consulate in Toronto, Canada expressed its displeasure at defacement of a Ram Mandir in Mississauga. The incident at the temple took place on February 13 (Monday). The anti-India graffiti at the temple was allegedly made by 'Khalistani extremists'. India has urged Canadian authorities to find the perpetrators. "We strongly condemn the defacing of Ram Mandir in Mississauga with anti-India graffiti. We have requested Canadian authorities to investigate the incident and take prompt action on perpetrators," India's Consulate in Toronto tweeted on Tuesday. "Vandalism occurred overnight (February 13th) at the Shri Ram Mandir in Mississauga, Ontario Canada. We at the Ram Mandir are very disturbed by this occurrence and we are working with the appropriate law enforcement authority on this matter," the Facebook page of the temple said. Pro-Khalistani slogans and anti-India graffiti was seen painted the walls of the temple. This is not the first time a Hindu temple was defaced in Canada. Last month, a temple in Brampton, Canada was painted with hate-filled anti-India messages. This had caused an outrage among the Indian-Canadian community. In September, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Toronto was defaced by "Canadian Khalistani extremists". The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is a spiritual, volunteer-driven faith dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service. Last September, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement condemning the rise of hate crimes against Indians and anti-India activities in Canada, expressing their concern with stern language. Statistics Canada reported a 72 per cent increase in hate crimes based on religion, sexual orientation, and race between 2019 and 2021. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India fumes after Hindu temple in Canada gets defaced

At places of worship, devotees pray and wish for all kinds of things including career growth, health, wealth, prosperity and what not. But on the outskirts of Chennai, a temple is dedicated to visa. Sri Lakshmi Visa Ganapathi Temple has surged in popularity among visa seekers over the past decade.

WION Wings: Sri Lakshmi Visa Ganapathi Temple in India attracts devotees who want to travel abroad

<p>Non-fungible tokens (NFT) have gained a massive amount of popularity in the past&nbsp;couple of years but the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung has found a never-seen-before way to use the modern technology. The temple, which is around 100 miles down the coast from Taiwan, introduced NFTs in connection to the sea goddess Mazu and they are already popular among younger people.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-extended-conscription-and-loss-of-face-for-xi-jinping-547113">Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping</a></p>

<p>The temple organises a 300-kilometer pilgrimage in honour of the sea goddess every year and the economy of the region is mainly dependent on the revenue generated from tourism. The “Mazu economy” is driven by donations and the sale of merchandise associated with the temple.</p>

<p>As a result, the release of the NFTs have created a buzz among the devotees and media reports claimed that NFT acts a “priority pass” for people visiting the temple which was built in the 18th century by the Qing dynasty. Mazu, a mythical sea goddess who is popular for being the protector of seafarers, attracts several pilgrims every year and the digital tokens have increased the popularity.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/legendary-iranian-footballer-ali-daei-claims-family-not-allowed-to-leave-country-546929">Former Iranian footballer Ali Daei claims family not allowed to leave country</a></p>

<p>Mingkun Cheng, vice chairman of the board of the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, told Forkast that the NFTs have already increased the number of pilgrims and the tokens will generate more than five billion Taiwan dollars (US$163m) in spending. Since their initial launch in August 2021, over 2800 tokens have been sold till now and its current market price is somewhere around $18,800.</p>

<p>The popularity of the NFTs coincided with the global attraction towards cryptocurrencies but the dip in the market can see the temple diversify when it comes to their latest attractions.</p>

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Non-fungible tokens (NFT) have gained a massive amount of popularity in the past couple of years but the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung has found a never-seen-before way to use the modern technology.

Non-fungible tokens (NFT) have gained a massive amount of popularity in the past couple of years but the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung has found a never-seen-before way to use the modern technology. The temple, which is around 100 miles down the coast from Taiwan, introduced NFTs in connection to the sea goddess Mazu and they are already popular among younger people. Also read | Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping The temple organises a 300-kilometer pilgrimage in honour of the sea goddess every year and the economy of the region is mainly dependent on the revenue generated from tourism. The “Mazu economy” is driven by donations and the sale of merchandise associated with the temple. As a result, the release of the NFTs have created a buzz among the devotees and media reports claimed that NFT acts a “priority pass” for people visiting the temple which was built in the 18th century by the Qing dynasty. Mazu, a mythical sea goddess who is popular for being the protector of seafarers, attracts several pilgrims every year and the digital tokens have increased the popularity. Also read | Former Iranian footballer Ali Daei claims family not allowed to leave country Mingkun Cheng, vice chairman of the board of the Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, told Forkast that the NFTs have already increased the number of pilgrims and the tokens will generate more than five billion Taiwan dollars (US$163m) in spending. Since their initial launch in August 2021, over 2800 tokens have been sold till now and its current market price is somewhere around $18,800. The popularity of the NFTs coincided with the global attraction towards cryptocurrencies but the dip in the market can see the temple diversify when it comes to their latest attractions.

18th century temple in Taiwan comes up with NFTs to boost popularity

<p>A&nbsp;Buddhist monastery in central Thailand is now without monks after all of its holy men failed drug tests and were defrocked, as reported by AFP.</p>

<p>According to district administrator, Boonlert Thintapthai of Phetchabun province, four monks, including an abbot, at a temple in the Bung Sam Phan district tested positive for methamphetamine on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The monks have been transferred to a medical facility for drug rehabilitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The monks have left the temple, and the nearby villagers are worried that they cannot perform any merit-making, he said.</p>

<p>Worshippers might earn merit by giving food to monks as a good deed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More monks will be dispatched to the temple, according to Boonlert, so that the locals can fulfil their religious duties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-searches-for-china-covid-protests-are-filled-with-porn-and-spam-538452">Govt bot offensive? Twitter searches on China Covid protests return porn and spam</a></p>

<p>The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime claims that Thailand is a significant transit country for methamphetamine that enters the country via Laos from Myanmar's unstable Shan state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pills can be purchased for less than 20 baht (about $0.50) on the street.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent years, authorities in Southeast Asia have seized unprecedented amounts of meth.</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Buddhist monastery in central Thailand is now without monks after all of its holy men failed drug tests and were defrocked, as reported by AFP. According to district administrator, Boonlert Thintapthai of Phetchabun province, four monks, including an abbot, at a temple in the Bung Sam Phan district tested positive for methamphetamine on Monday.

A Buddhist monastery in central Thailand is now without monks after all of its holy men failed drug tests and were defrocked, as reported by AFP. According to district administrator, Boonlert Thintapthai of Phetchabun province, four monks, including an abbot, at a temple in the Bung Sam Phan district tested positive for methamphetamine on Monday. The monks have been transferred to a medical facility for drug rehabilitation. The monks have left the temple, and the nearby villagers are worried that they cannot perform any merit-making, he said. Worshippers might earn merit by giving food to monks as a good deed. More monks will be dispatched to the temple, according to Boonlert, so that the locals can fulfil their religious duties. Also Read: Govt bot offensive? Twitter searches on China Covid protests return porn and spam The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime claims that Thailand is a significant transit country for methamphetamine that enters the country via Laos from Myanmar's unstable Shan state. Pills can be purchased for less than 20 baht (about $0.50) on the street. In recent years, authorities in Southeast Asia have seized unprecedented amounts of meth. (with inputs from agencies)

Thailand temple left without monks after all its holy men failed drug tests

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