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Russian woman, daughters found living in Karnataka cave, rescued by cops

Russian woman, daughters found living in Karnataka cave, rescued by cops

India Today2 days ago
A Russian woman and her two daughters were found and rescued from a secluded cave in Karnataka's rugged Ramatirtha Hills. The rescue operation was carried out on Wednesday by the Gokarna police during a routine patrol focused on tourist safety in the region.Nina Kutina, 40, and her daughters Prema, 6, and Ama, 4, were discovered living in a cave in a remote and landslide-prone area of the forest by Circle Inspector Sridhar SR and his team. The police escorted all the three down the hill and relocated them to an ashram in Bankikodla village, under the care of 80-year-old spiritual leader Swami Yogaratna Saraswati.advertisementThe woman, deeply drawn to Indian spiritual traditions, had arrived in India on a business visa and made her way from Goa to the sacred coastal town of Gokarna, reportedly inspired by Hindu philosophy and a quest for spiritual awakening.
She had been living in complete isolation inside a natural cave for nearly two weeks, accompanied only by her daughters. The family had set up a modest living space within the cave, surrounded by dense forest and steep slopes. Inside, the woman had installed a Rudra idol and spent her days in worship and meditation.While monitoring the area following a recent landslide, the police noticed clothes hanging out to dry near the cave and decided to investigate further. Navigating through the thick underbrush, they discovered the woman and her children living quietly inside.Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police M Narayana said, 'Our patrolling team noticed sarees and other clothes drying outside a cave in the Ramatirtha Hills. When they reached the spot, they found Kutina and her two daughters residing there.''It was surprising how the family managed to survive in the wilderness. Fortunately, they were unharmed during their stay,' he added.Kutina, who claimed to have come to India on a business visa, initially failed to produce valid travel documentation. She said her passport and visa may have been lost in the forest. A subsequent search by the Gokarna Police and the Forest Department led to the recovery of the documents.Verification revealed that Kutina had entered India on a business visa on October 18, 2016, which expired on April 17, 2017. An exit permit was issued by the FRRO Panaji on April 19, 2018, after which she reportedly travelled to Nepal and re-entered India on September 8, 2018.Due to safety concerns, the woman and her daughters were transferred to the Government Women's Shelter in Karwar, under the Department of Women and Child Welfare, the police said in a press release.The Superintendent of Police, Uttara Kannada, has initiated proceedings with the Foreigners' Regional Registration Office (FRRO), Bengaluru, regarding the visa violations. With assistance from a local NGO, the Russian Embassy has been contacted, and repatriation formalities are underway to ensure the safe return of her and her children.- Ends
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C.M. Naim's First Day in the US
C.M. Naim's First Day in the US

The Wire

timean hour ago

  • The Wire

C.M. Naim's First Day in the US

'I have experienced exploitation and racial prejudice. But thanks to that day I have always managed not to blame some anonymous America for my troubles.' Uttar Pradesh-born scholar and respected expert on Urdu and other South Asian languages, C.M. Naim passed away last week. Below is his piece for The First Days Project of the South Asian American Digital Archive (SAADA), that shares stories from immigrants and refugees about their first experiences in the US. It was a date in mid-September, 1957, when the Pan Am round-the-world flight I had caught in Calcutta reached San Francisco. There was no one to meet me at the airport; the professor who had invited me to work with him was in the hospital. He had however sent me detailed instructions: I was to take a bus into the city, then two other buses to get to Berkeley, and finally a fourth bus to get to the International House. I was bone-tired, not only from the long journey but also from the three months of uncertainty. The perversity of Indian bureaucracy and an appendectomy that had become complicated as I had rushed around from one office to another had left me drained, both physically and in spirit. I have no memory of how I got through the customs and found the bus to the downtown terminal, which then was just a large hall on a side street where buses gorged and disgorged airline passengers and their baggage. Jostled around by the crowd I somehow managed to find my heavy, unwieldy suitcase, but could not locate the equally stuffed Pan Am airbag. Among other things it contained my degrees and passport, the instructions from my professor, and all my American money, a grand sum of twenty-five dollars. My panic increased as I rushed around, dragging my suitcase with me. If I collided with people, I didn't notice. If they spoke to me, I didn't hear. I didn't know what to do. I had no experience with telephones, nor did I know anyone's phone number to call. All such information was in that bag. As the hall emptied and it became clear that my bag was nowhere in sight, I sat down on a bench and quietly cried. Then the elderly black man whom I had seen helping passengers with their bags and taxis came over and spoke to me. At first I didn't understand him—I had never heard anyone talk that way—but gradually some sense of what he was saying came through to me. He wanted to know why I was crying. He asked me if I needed some help. Somehow I managed to explain my situation—my loss and my not knowing what to do. Neither my accent nor my dilemma seemed to him insurmountable. According to him, the bus that had brought me had also brought a woman who had a vast assortment of bags and parcels with her. He was sure she had unknowingly gone off with my bag too. He assured me it was not a big problem since he knew the cabs that had come that morning, and that he was going to send out a radio call for a particular cab to come back to the terminal. I heard the words but couldn't make any sense of them. I only stared at him with blank eyes. I think he brought me something to drink, then went away to do the 'magic' I had no reason to believe in. When he came back he told me that the cab he believed the woman had taken was a private one, and thus not equipped with a radio. He had, therefore, asked all Yellow Cab drivers to be on the lookout for that cab and send it back to the terminal when located. Needless to say, I had no idea what he was talking about. I sat there, numb with a fear of the unknown. I had no money, no way to contact my professor or find my way to the International House in Berkeley. What was I going to do? After nearly an hour, the old black gentleman came back with a white man, and explained to me that he was the driver of the taxi that took that woman to her hotel and that he was now going to take me to her. I'm sure I didn't believe what he said, but I picked up my suitcase, not letting anyone give me a hand with it, and went with the driver. At the hotel, I wanted to drag my suitcase with me but the cabman made me put it in the trunk. Then we marched up to the Reception and from there to an elevator that rose and rose until it opened on to a corridor of thick carpet and muffled lights. The cabman knocked briskly on a door; then explained to the lady who opened it why we had come. But I had already seen my precious bag in the midst of her suitcases and boxes scattered over the floor. I rushed forward and grabbed it, and zipped it open to show them its contents. My eyes glared: 'Look, this is mine—not yours.' She was flustered. She apologised. We marched out. I don't think I said a word until the driver and I were back in the cab; I then asked him if he could take me straight to the International House in Berkeley. It was on the other side of the Bay, and there were tolls to pay. I showed him the money I had. 'Was it enough?' He nodded, and away we went. Gradually, my senses crept back into me. I began to see the sights, hear the noises, feel the air blowing in. And then suddenly a whole new sense of confidence filled me. There we were, on that amazing bridge, with vast stretches of sun-lit blue water spread underneath us. A powerful machine was speeding me ever so smoothly to a destination that now seemed so certain. The cab no doubt had a roof, but it felt as if there was no barrier of any kind between this world and me. An openness prevailed. The new world held no terror for me any more. I had witnessed a miracle, wrought by a total stranger who had helped me when I had no one to turn to and lost all hope. I gained that day a kind of confidence and feeling of trust that has come to my rescue many a time since then. Not that I have not despaired since that day. I've hit the bottom several times. I have been lonely and angry and terrified, and worse. I have experienced exploitation and racial prejudice. But thanks to that day I have always managed not to blame some anonymous America for my troubles. This essay first appeared on the First Days Project's website. Read the original here. The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.

Sawan 2025 Start and End Date Defined by the Best Astrologer Acharya Devraj Ji
Sawan 2025 Start and End Date Defined by the Best Astrologer Acharya Devraj Ji

Hans India

timean hour ago

  • Hans India

Sawan 2025 Start and End Date Defined by the Best Astrologer Acharya Devraj Ji

Introduction The holy month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, holds deep religious and spiritual significance in the Hindu calendar. It is the most auspicious time dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and perform special rituals to seek divine blessings. In 2025, the exact sawan 2025 start date and end date become even more meaningful due to celestial alignments that will influence the month's energy. According to the best astrologer in India, Acharya Devraj Ji, understanding the astrological basis of Sawan 2025 is crucial for performing rituals at the right time, maximizing spiritual benefits, and aligning with cosmic energies for overall well-being. With his decades of experience in Vedic astrology, KP astrology, and Nadi astrology, Acharya Ji brings unparalleled insights into the divine timing of Sawan. In this article, Acharya Devraj Ji explains: The start and end dates of Sawan in 2025 The spiritual and astrological significance of Sawan The best days to observe fasts and perform Shiva puja How planetary alignments will impact this sacred month Astrological remedies to follow for blessings and growth Sawan 2025: Start and End Date as per Hindu Panchang When Does Sawan Begin and End in 2025? According to the Vedic Panchang and Acharya Devraj Ji's precise calculations: Sawan Start Date (First Shravan Somwar): Monday, July 14, 2025 Sawan End Date (Last Shravan Somwar): Monday, August 11, 2025 Thus, Sawan in 2025 will span 29 days, including five auspicious Mondays (Somwars) dedicated to Lord Shiva. Why Sawan Is Spiritually Significant Acharya Devraj Ji explains that Sawan is ruled by Lord Shiva, the destroyer of ignorance and the giver of spiritual awakening. During this month, planetary energies align in such a way that devotees can experience inner transformation through penance, prayer, and devotion. Mythological Origins of Sawan As per Hindu mythology, Sawan is associated with the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). During this cosmic event, Halahala (deadly poison) emerged, and Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe. To cool his body, devotees began offering Gangajal and Belpatra, especially during the month of Shravan. Acharya Ji emphasizes that every Monday (Somwar) during this month carries immense potential for spiritual elevation, karma cleansing, and divine grace. Shravan Somwar Vrat 2025 Dates Here are the five Shravan Mondays (Somwars) that fall during Sawan 2025: July 14, 2025 – First Shravan Somwar July 21, 2025 – Second Shravan Somwar July 28, 2025 – Third Shravan Somwar August 4, 2025 – Fourth Shravan Somwar August 11, 2025 – Fifth and Last Shravan Somwar Astrological Benefits of Observing Somwar Vrat According to Acharya Devraj Ji, observing fasts on these Mondays can: Remove planetary doshas related to Moon, Saturn, and Rahu Enhance emotional stability and inner peace Strengthen marital harmony and relationship success Bring spiritual growth and intuitive clarity Planetary Influences During Sawan 2025 Acharya Devraj Ji highlights that the planetary transit during Sawan 2025 will amplify the spiritual and healing energies of this month. Key Transits During Sawan 2025: Sun in Cancer : The Sun's transit in Cancer enhances emotional intelligence and devotion. Ideal for Shiva puja and family-oriented prayers. : The Sun's transit in Cancer enhances emotional intelligence and devotion. Ideal for Shiva puja and family-oriented prayers. Mercury in Leo : Brings clarity in speech and effective mantra chanting. : Brings clarity in speech and effective mantra chanting. Saturn Retrograde in Aquarius : Encourages self-discipline, meditation, and breaking past karmic patterns. : Encourages self-discipline, meditation, and breaking past karmic patterns. Jupiter in Taurus: Supports grounded spirituality and abundance through disciplined devotion. Sawan and the Moon Connection In Vedic astrology, Monday (Somwar) is ruled by the Moon, which governs emotions, mind, and subconscious energies. Sawan's Mondays are perfect for emotional healing, stress release, and mental peace, especially when Moon is exalted or well-placed. Special Rituals Recommended by Acharya Devraj Ji To make the most of Sawan 2025, Acharya Ji recommends a few powerful spiritual and astrological practices: 1. Jalabhishek to Lord Shiva Offer Gangajal, milk, honey, and rose water to the Shiva Linga every Monday. Chant 'Om Namah Shivaya' 108 times. 2. Recite Rudrashtakam and Shiva Chalisa Daily chanting of Rudrashtakam and Shiva Chalisa during this month removes obstacles and grants peace. 3. Observe Shravan Somwar Vrat Fasting from sunrise to sunset on Mondays helps in attaining mental and physical purity. Consume fruits and satvik food after evening prayers. 4. Light a Diya at Shivlinga During Pradosh Kaal Pradosh Kaal (after sunset) is a spiritually potent time to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and career growth. 5. Offer Bel Patra, Dhatura, and White Flowers These are sacred offerings that please Lord Shiva. Ensure they are fresh and offered with devotion. Astrological Remedies for Career and Relationship During Sawan Career Remedies Acharya Devraj Ji, known as the best career astrologer in India, advises: Chant Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra 108 times daily to eliminate career stagnation. Donate black sesame seeds and mustard oil on Saturdays to reduce Shani's negative influence. Offer water to Shivling before sunrise to enhance Mercury and Jupiter's positive energies for job growth. Relationship Remedies Perform Gauri-Shankar Rudraksha puja to attract harmony in marriage. Offer Haldi Kumkum to Goddess Parvati on Fridays. Wear a silver chain with Moon Yantra if facing emotional turbulence in relationships. Sawan 2025 for Each Zodiac Sign: Acharya Devraj Ji's Predictions Aries Strong spiritual growth. Excellent time to perform Rudrabhishek for career breakthroughs. Taurus Health will improve. Good time for resolving family misunderstandings through Shiva puja. Gemini Meditation will bring clarity. Fasting on Mondays will remove Mercury-related doshas. Cancer Moon being your ruler, this month will bring emotional release and healing through devotion. Leo Ideal time to strengthen relationships. Offer water to Shiva for inner peace. Virgo Good month for career planning. Spiritual rituals will improve focus. Libra Enhances beauty, charm, and relationship strength. Ideal for offering flowers to Shiva. Scorpio Best time for transformation. Regular chanting of Om Namah Shivaya will bring peace. Sagittarius Spiritual insights will grow. Fasting will remove Jupiter and Rahu-related issues. Capricorn Pray to Lord Shiva for mental strength and break from past karmic patterns. Aquarius Saturn retrograde might bring old lessons. Use this month for deep reflection and mantra sadhana. Pisces Excellent time to deepen spiritual practices. Shiva devotion will clear mental confusion. Do's and Don'ts During Sawan 2025 Do's: Worship Lord Shiva daily, especially on Mondays Eat satvik food (no onion, garlic, or non-veg) Maintain silence and practice japa (mantra chanting) Donate food, milk, and clothes to the needy Don'ts: Avoid alcohol and meat Don't use black clothes or broken utensils Avoid anger, lies, and negative thoughts Don't pluck Bel Patra on Amavasya or Sundays Acharya Devraj Ji's Final Message for Sawan 2025 In the words of Acharya Devraj Ji, "Sawan is not just a month—it is a spiritual bridge to the divine. The more you immerse yourself in devotion and self-discipline during Sawan, the closer you come to discovering your true self. Use this sacred time to transform your karma, your energy, and your destiny." Acharya Ji's advanced predictions, drawn from Vedic astrology, KP astrology, and Nadi techniques, empower devotees to align themselves with universal forces that shape personal and spiritual growth. Conclusion Sawan 2025, starting on July 14 and ending on August 11, is a spiritually charged period that provides devotees with a rare opportunity to seek Lord Shiva's blessings. With five powerful Mondays for observing fasts and performing pujas, this month is ideal for introspection, healing, and positive transformation. By following the astrological guidance of Acharya Devraj Ji, considered the best astrologer in India, individuals can make this Sawan a life-changing journey of divine connection, karmic purification, and inner peace. If you wish to know how Sawan 2025 will affect your personal horoscope, career, or relationship karma, connect with Acharya Devraj Ji for a personalized astrological consultation today.

'They've destroyed India': Couple filmed dumping garbage on Canada roadside, racist backlash follows
'They've destroyed India': Couple filmed dumping garbage on Canada roadside, racist backlash follows

Hindustan Times

timean hour ago

  • Hindustan Times

'They've destroyed India': Couple filmed dumping garbage on Canada roadside, racist backlash follows

A video showing a couple dumping garbage in a wooded roadside area in Canada has gone viral, with many online users speculating that they are of Indian origin. The footage has sparked widespread criticism and also fuelled a wave of racially charged backlash targeting India. Shared on X (formerly Twitter) by a user named Bruce, the clip has already garnered over 620k views and continues to draw strong reactions. Internet slammed a couple caught littering in Canada.(X/bruce_barrett) (Also read: Indian woman questions return to India after finding peace in Canada: 'Am I a bad person?') Caught on camera In the video, the couple is seen standing beside their vehicle, unloading bags of waste in what appears to be a quiet, green roadside area surrounded by nature. Bruce, the user who posted the video, captioned it: "They've destroyed India. We can't let them destroy Canada next." Watch the clip here: Fury on social media The video triggered an outpouring of responses from netizens, with many expressing outrage and disappointment. One user voiced their frustration, stating, 'This is exactly the kind of behaviour that gives immigrants a bad name. Utterly irresponsible.' Another commented, 'Everyone should start speaking up when they witness this kind of behaviour. It's completely unacceptable.' A third user speculated, 'Could they be feeding birds or some wild animal? Could it be bread or something similar? Or perhaps flowers for a ritual? Does anyone know the area and what exists at that spot? Because they didn't throw the plastic bags — they kept them.' One viewer wrote, 'Canada is not your dumping ground. This is disrespectful to the community and the environment.' Another remarked, 'This is why I can't always defend fellow Indians. They make it easy for others to mock us. These people are a disgrace. We have too many bad apples.' Someone else added, 'That is just wrong. They need to remember that they're representing an entire community. Acts like these reflect poorly on all of us. What kind of example will they set for their children?' Another user said, 'They might have been throwing food for some wildlife and took the plastic bags back with them. Please don't generalise. Also, read about how much they contribute to the Canadian economy.'

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