Latest news with #Mahakali
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Pratham Kunwar to play the lead role in upcoming TV show Jhalee Ki Kahani; says ‘It brings a fresh set of challenges'
Television actor Pratham Kunwar, known for his roles in Guddan - Tumse Na Ho Paayega, Yeh Hai Chahatein, Rajjo, and mythological dramas like Mahakali and Siya Ke Ram, is all set to return as the lead in the upcoming show Jhalee Ki Kahani. After winning hearts as Rishi in Beti Hamari Anmol, Pratham is stepping into a brand new character with this project. Speaking about his latest role, Pratham said, 'I'm truly excited about this new titular role because it's very different from anything I've done before. It brings a fresh set of challenges, but I'm fully prepared and looking forward to giving it my best.' The show's narrative centres around Nirvair (played by Pratham) and two best friends, Jhalee (Apeksha Malviya) and Amrit (Isha Kaloya), whose contrasting personalities shape the storyline. While Jhalee is lively and carefree, Amrit brings depth to the friendship dynamic, leading to an engaging story of love and friendship. Talking about his character, Pratham shared, 'I'm playing the role of Nirvair, I'm already in love with him and excited to begin this journey on screen, looking forward to entertain my audience and hope they enjoy watching me.' Jhalee Ki Kahani comes from a production house known for successful shows like Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, Choti Sardarni, Teri Meri Doriyaann, and Deewaniyat. On collaborating with them, Pratham said, 'This production house is undoubtedly one of the leading and most respected ones in the industry today. I'm genuinely thrilled to be associated with them. After meeting the producers Predeep Kumar and Rajesh Ram Singh, I was deeply impressed by their humility, supportiveness, and the immense passion they bring to their projects. I sincerely hope to live up to their expectations and deliver on their creative vision.'
The Hindu
5 days ago
- General
- The Hindu
Rangam 2025 at Ujjaini Mahakali: Oracle predicts abundant rains for Telangana
The traditional Rangam or soothsayer ritual, one of the most awaited events during the Bonalu festival, was held with fervent devotion at the Sri Ujjaini Mahakali Temple in Secunderabad on Monday (July 14, 2025). This year's oracle voice struck a deeply stirring and cautionary tone. Beginning with blessings and praise for the people's devotion, the possessed woman conveyed the goddess's happiness over the offerings made in her honour. Yet, her words soon turned to warning. The tradition believed to embody direct communication between the goddess Mahakali and her devotees, a woman — known as Vishwamatta or Shakti — in divine trance made predictions and emotional appeals for the year ahead. 'To all my people, to all my children, I am very happy. I have been blessed with wealth for a long time but every year, you play games with me. I have been saying this for seven years, you do not listen,' the oracle declared. The temple priest, representing the voice of the devotees, sought forgiveness and asked for guidance. The exchange that followed was emotionally charged, as the goddess demanded a greater degree of devotion and sacrifice, symbolised through the repeated phrase, 'Show me blood.' While acknowledging that pujas and offerings had been conducted well, the oracle stressed that it was not enough. 'I carried you in my womb, I protected you. but my patience is wearing thin,' she said. Among the moments of the ceremony was a prophecy foretelling a possible pandemic and the danger of fires in the near future. 'In the coming days, there will be a pandemic. You should be careful. Follow the rules. There will also be fire danger. I am warning you now,' she said. In response to the priest's enquiry about rainfall and harvests, traditionally foretold during the Rangam, the oracle offered some optimism. 'Yes, this year the rains will be good. The crops will be good. There will be sweets and festivals,' she said, before returning to a more somber tone. 'This year, it is my turn to stand. Show me blood. If you do not, I will not stay quiet' she warned. The ritual concluded with the priest bowing in prayer, seeking peace and reassurance. 'Don't show me blood. Bless me. Next year, everything will be fine. With your blessings, we will celebrate this festival.' Shortly after the Rangam, Telangana's Minister for BC Welfare and Civil Supplies, Ponnam Prabhakar, addressed the media and reiterated the State government's commitment to the Bonalu tradition. Referring to the prophecy of good rains and harvests, he said, 'It is a good sign for farmers and for people across the State. For everyone to live in happiness, the goddess has given her blessings.' He added that all rituals prescribed by shastra would be performed under official supervision through the Endowments Department. 'As instructed by the goddess through the prophecy, the State will respond with full responsibility,' he said.
Hans India
7 days ago
- General
- Hans India
Mahakali temple decked up for Lashkar Bonalu
Hyderabad: The two-day Bonalu festivities at the Ujjaini Mahakali temple in Secunderabad are scheduled for July 13 and 14. Marking the peak of Ashada month celebration, an estimated 40 lakh devotees are expected to attend the event. According to organisers, during the Ashada month, the Bonalu festival, also known as Lashkar bonalu transforms this temple into a spectacular hub of devotion. Devotees from across India and even from overseas plan their annual visits to coincide with these celebrations, ensuring they pay homage to the goddess during this auspicious time. The entire atmosphere comes alive with the chants of priests, the rhythmic beat of Pothurajus, vibrant dance performances, colorful processions of the goddess's symbolic pots, the media buzz, round-the-clock efforts by the police, decoration of temple and the watchful presence of political leaders. Together, they create an eightfold fortress of devotion and joy around the temple. In the temple, Chandi Devi and Bala Devi stand to Mahakali's left. Remarkably, during the temple's construction, an idol of Manikyalamma was unearthed and consecrated to Mahakali Mata's right. Opposite her sits Matamma, and nearby is Veerabhadra Swamy. Much like the radiant face of the goddess, the entire temple courtyard glows with a divine serenity, always brimming with devoted worshippers. A popular belief holds that during Ashada, the goddess and her 'sisters' visit their maternal home, blessing everyone in their community. Symbolically, the goddess's decorated pots are carried door-to-door, receiving prayers and offerings from every household and showering blessings in return. On the main day of the festival on Sunday, Mahakali Mata's divine form appears as radiant and luminous as moonlight, much like a cherished daughter returning home after a long time away. An equally remarkable tradition is the revered prophecy delivered by Jogini Swarnalatha. Every Monday during the festival, the highly anticipated Rangam ceremony takes place. Swarnalatha, who lives a celibate life entirely devoted to the goddess, invokes Mahakali to speak through her. Her words are keenly awaited not only by thousands of devotees but also by state officials, who listen to her divine counsel with great respect.
India Gazette
7 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Maa Kali has always had special blessings over the Indian Army: Rajnath Singh
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 12 (ANI): Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that the Indian Army continues to receive the special blessings of Maa Kali, as he stated that Indian forces successfully destroyed nine terror camps located in Pakistan during a recent operation named Operation Sindoor. He added that the operation saw active participation from both male and female personnel, including women soldiers and pilots. Addressing the gathering at the inauguration ceremony of a new block at the Badi Kaliji Temple complex in Lucknow, Minister Singh said, 'Maa Kali has always had special blessings over the Indian Army. Recently, during Operation Sindoor, Indian forces were able to destroy nine terror camps in Pakistan. Women soldiers and pilots also participated in this operation, not just male soldiers. That one form of Mahakali defeated the enemies.' Referring to the month of July, Singh underscored its historical significance for the Indian Armed Forces. 'Twenty-six years ago, in 1999, a military conflict took place between India and Pakistan in the Kargil hills. Pakistan had made a desperate attempt to capture Indian territory. At that time, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Member of Parliament from Lucknow and the Prime Minister of the country, led the nation with a firm resolve that not even an inch of India's land would be surrendered, and he succeeded. Such was our revered leader, Atal Bihari Vajpayee,' he said. Defence Minister also recalled the bravery of Captain Manoj Pandey, who was part of the Gorkha Rifles regiment. 'The battle cry of the Gorkha Rifles is 'Jai Mahakali, Aayo Gurkhali'. Mahakali is considered the force behind bravery in this country. This year marks the 26th anniversary of the Kargil War, and on this occasion, we must remember all brave soldiers, including Captain Manoj Pandey, who laid down their lives for Mother India,' he added. Singh also reflected on India's historical legacy, saying, 'India has been an example of economic prosperity and material development for centuries. We have set models of progress and wealth, yet have never used it to fuel geographical expansion or exploitation. This is one of India's greatest strengths.' 'Today, however, India has changed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Alongside development, our country is preserving its heritage. The reconstruction of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Mahakal Corridor, the Somnath Temple, and the grand temple of Lord Ram in Ayodhya are clear examples,' Singh asserted. Speaking about the Badi Kali temple, he urged collective efforts to enhance the grandeur and divinity of the site. 'I assure you of all possible support as your public representative,' he said. The Defence Minister also acknowledged the efforts made for the reconstruction of the temple and noted that a decision has been taken to build a Satsang Bhawan at the site. 'Our Tourism Minister, Jaiveer Singh, has announced the construction of a grand Satsang building here. It will allow the people of Lucknow to participate in spiritual gatherings and rituals. Additionally, a yoga centre will also be built here,' he added. (ANI)
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
You have to say no a few times to get what you want: Sourabh Raaj Jain
Sourabh Raaj Jain, recognized for his portrayal of Krishna, discusses his conscious decision to avoid being typecast in mythological roles. H Best known for playing Krishna in Mahabharat and other mythological shows like Mahakali and Chandragupta Maurya, Sourabh Raaj Jain talks about being stereotyped in the genre and how he managed to break free from that. He says, 'After Krishna, I kept getting calls to play similar roles — Krishna, Vishnu, etc. But I turned them down because it felt repetitive. If someone comes with a fresh take, I won't think twice. A role has to be different from what you have done earlier.' Talking to Mumbai Mirror about how his patience paid off, Sourabh says, 'It's a choice. You have to say no a few times to get what you want. That also depends on your financial stability and how focused you are on what you want to do.' He recently returned to television with Tu Dhadkan Mein Dil after five years. 'I am happy to play characters with different layers, whether it's performance-based or writer-driven. I started my career with fiction shows. I did Remix, Uttaran, Parichay, among others. I want to be a part of different genres and do a variety of roles,' he says.
