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Indian Express
a day ago
- Indian Express
After Pahalgam, J&K needs the spiritual healing Amarnath Yatra offers
The annual Amarnathji pilgrimage begins on July 3. Around half a million devotees are ready for the spiritual calling that starts with an arduous journey through physically demanding climate and terrain to reach the holy cave at an altitude of nearly 13,000 feet. The people of Jammu and Kashmir, hurt by Pakistan's nefarious design to disturb peace, communal harmony and growing prosperity in the Union Territory (UT) by carrying out the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, are eagerly waiting to extend a warm welcome to pilgrims. The government machinery and security apparatus are prepared to ensure it is incident-free and seekers return home immersed in divine bliss. For me, this pilgrimage has a special alchemy. This spiritual odyssey is overwhelming due to the hypnotic spell of divinity that overcomes fatigued legs and cold-engulfed bodies along the trek. The Yatra is also an opportunity to understand life through a rationale little realised in the modern-day rigmarole. It offers deep trust and fills your heart with infinite gratitude. It allows you to interact with your own being. You may find yourself alone despite being huddled together. On the trek to the holy cave, the un-essentials of life disappear. What remains is awareness — that someone else up there guides your life. Our ancient scriptures describe Amarnath cave as the holy address of the sacred secret. Lord Shiva is believed to have narrated the story of the creation of the universe and disclosed the divine secret of amaratva (immortality) to Goddess Parvati during his sojourn in the mountains. In the Shiva Sutra, Lord Shiva says, 'Pran samchre samdarshanam, Shiv tulyo jayate (Divine energy is blossoming. You need to experience it to become like me).' This is a profound message to humanity. This year's Amarnath Yatra is also a statement against terrorism. The soul of J&K was wounded in Pahalgam, with the killing of innocent civilians by Pakistani terrorists after identifying their faith. The nation was in shock. Jammu and Kashmir decided to lead the national outrage. Massive protests followed against terrorism. Women stepped out of their homes, ensuring their voices were not lost. The outpouring of emotions, though sudden, was in sync with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism after 2019, and the outcome it delivered for the people, significantly transforming lives and snatching them out of the hands of terror. The administration had followed a two-pronged policy — protecting innocent civilians but at the same time ruthlessly targeting terrorists and their supporters. We prioritised economic growth, infrastructure development, empowerment of the youth and women, incentivised social welfare and social justice to mainstream Jammu and Kashmir towards stability and prosperity — the benefits of democracy the region couldn't afford due to persistent dark clouds of terror. Post-2019, we have worked hard to establish good governance and a transparent administrative system that encourages speedy implementation of projects. Over time, the gap between resources and aspirations was bridged to a great extent. This was possible because citizens, irrespective of religion and region, became the fulcrum of policy initiatives. Perhaps, for this reason, Jammu and Kashmir started to figure in different socio-economic growth indices in the last five years. Achievements, especially by the youth — recently three girls cleared the IIT entrance exam — by themselves narrate that J&K is realising its potential. The opening of the highest railway bridge at the Chenab River only manifests the UT's willingness to join the steeplechase for many global firsts. The overall transformation of the region also reflects in the way Amarnath Yatra has been organised since 2022, when pilgrimage began post-Covid. This year, helicopter services have been suspended due to safety concerns. I urge all pilgrims, including those travelling in private vehicles, to travel only with the convoy from Jammu to the base camps. Last year, more than five lakh devotees paid obeisance at the holy cave. It was the highest Yatra figure in the last 12 years. Since 2022, considerable improvement has been made on both the Yatra routes. Wider tracks up to 12 feet were achieved on both the routes. We have introduced RFID-based tracking systems for all registered pilgrims and service providers for real-time monitoring and to prevent unauthorised access. 24×7 surveillance through live feed has ensured pilgrims' safety. Hundred-bed hospitals at both the base camps at Baltal and Chandanwari have been made functional. Earlier, there was no power supply on Yatra routes. We have ensured grid power supply along the routes and the holy cave. Underground optical fibre cable has been laid for seamless tele-connectivity. Such development is no less than a miracle. However, a frustrated Pakistan is resorting to terrorism to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir. But we will not let Pakistan and its terror proxies succeed. Operation Sindoor has not only avenged Pahalgam, it has set a new code against cross-border terrorism. We will give a befitting reply to any terrorist attacks in the future. With the same intensity, we will take the development process forward, too. A successful Amarnath Yatra will strengthen our resolve to build Viksit Jammu and Kashmir and Viksit Bharat. The caravan of development that started in 2019 must move forward. The progress of the UT is the responsibility of every person in this country. The massive footfall of tourists in the last five years indicated the resolve of the nation. Jammu and Kashmir is now vying for a generational shift and every Indian will have to participate in this mahayagya. I appeal to the devotees of Lord Shiva to join the Amarnath Yatra. Your pilgrimage will spiritually heal Jammu and Kashmir, wounded by the April 22 terror attack. May Mahadev bless us. The writer is Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir
Time of India
2 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Sawan 2025: When it begins and ends, why it matters, and what devotees do during the holy month
As the rain begins to fall and the air turns cooler, people in many parts of India start getting ready for something more than just the monsoon– the month of Sawan. It's a time that's closely linked with Lord Shiva and holds a lot of spiritual meaning for his followers. All through this month, many people follow simple but meaningful traditions– like visiting temples, saying daily prayers, and fasting on Mondays, which are considered extra special. Some even start a longer fast called Solah Somwar Vrat, where they fast every Monday for sixteen weeks. On Tuesdays, many women also keep a fast called Mangal Gauri Vrat to pray to Goddess Parvati for their family's well-being. Even though the customs are mostly the same everywhere, the exact dates of Sawan change from place to place. That's because different parts of the country follow different calendars, so the month begins and ends at different times depending on where you are. The significance of Sawan in Hindu tradition Sawan, which is also called Shravan, is believed to be a time when prayers to Lord Shiva are especially powerful. One of the main traditions during this month is fasting on Mondays, known as Shravan Somwar. Some people also begin the Solah Somwar Vrat during this time, where they fast every Monday for 16 weeks, even after Sawan ends. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Tuesdays are also special for many families. Married women often observe the Mangal Gauri Vrat on this day, praying to Goddess Parvati for the happiness and well-being of their family. How Sawan 2025 will be observed in different regions In North India This version of the Hindu calendar starts the month right after the full moon. It is followed in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Begins: July 11, 2025 (Friday) Ends: August 9, 2025 (Saturday) Shravan Somwar fasting dates: July 14 July 21 July 28 August 4 In South and Western India States like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Goa follow the Amanta calendar, which begins the month after the new moon. Begins: July 25, 2025 (Friday) Ends: August 23, 2025 (Saturday) Shravan Somwar fasting dates: July 28 August 4 August 11 August 18 In Nepal and parts of the Himalayas Regions like Nepal and some parts of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh use the Solar calendar to mark Sawan. Begins: July 16, 2025 Ends: August 16, 2025 Fasting Mondays in these areas: July 28 August 4 August 11 August 18 Fasting, rituals, and everyday observances For many people, Sawan is all about keeping things simple and staying connected to their faith. On Mondays, a lot of devotees choose to fast. Most avoid regular meals and eat only fruits, milk, or light vegetarian food without onion or garlic. Shiva temples are usually busier than usual, as people come to offer water, belpatra, and milk to the Shivling. Some also follow the Solah Somwar Vrat, where they keep this Monday fast for 16 weeks in a row– even after Sawan is over. On Tuesdays, many women perform the Mangal Gauri puja at home. They offer prayers to Goddess Parvati, often with small rituals done in the morning or evening. Sawan is more than just a religious month– for many, it's a way to reconnect with faith through discipline, routine, and intention. As 2025 approaches, the dates may vary across India, but the spirit of the month remains the same– deeply personal and quietly powerful.
Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Sawan 2025: Start & end dates, significance, fasting rituals, and key details
In the Hindu calendar, the month of Shravan, also called Sawan, carries deep spiritual significance, particularly for followers of Lord Shiva. This holy month is observed with fasting, prayers, and rituals, especially on Mondays, which are celebrated as Shravan Somwar or Sawan Somwar Vrat . In 2025, the timing of Sawan will vary across regions due to differences in lunar calendars—Purnimanta followed in North India and Amanta used in South and Western India. Sawan Fasting Rituals and Their Importance During the month of Sawan, devotees fast on Mondays to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Many also observe the Solah Somwar Vrat, which involves fasting for sixteen consecutive Mondays. Tuesdays are dedicated to Goddess Parvati and are marked by the observance of Mangal Gauri Vrat. Key occasions during this sacred month include Sawan Shivratri and Hariyali Amavasya. While the start and end dates of Sawan differ across regions due to various calendar systems, the spirit of devotion remains consistent, united in honor of Lord Shiva. Sawan 2025 Dates for North India In states such as Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, the month of Sawan will be observed from July 11, 2025 (Friday) to August 9, 2025 (Saturday). These dates follow the Purnimanta lunar calendar. The Sawan Somwar fasting days are as follows: Event Date First Sawan Somwar July 14, 2025 Second Sawan Somwar July 21, 2025 Third Sawan Somwar July 28, 2025 Fourth Sawan Somwar August 4, 2025 Sawan Somwar Dates in South and Western India In states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, the Amanta lunar calendar is followed. According to this system, the month of Sawan will begin on July 25, 2025, and conclude on August 23, 2025. The dates for observing Shravan Somwar Vrat in these regions are: Live Events Event Date First Somwar July 28, 2025 Second Somwar August 4, 2025 Third Somwar August 11, 2025 Fourth Somwar August 18, 2025 Sawan Dates in Nepal and Himalayan Regions In Nepal and certain areas of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, the month of Sawan is observed according to the Solar Calendar. For these regions, Sawan will begin on July 16, 2025, and conclude on August 16, 2025. The Shravan Somwar fasting dates are as follows: Event Date First Somwar July 28, 2025 Second Somwar August 4, 2025 Third Somwar August 11, 2025 Fourth Somwar August 18, 2025
NDTV
5 days ago
- Science
- NDTV
4,500-Year-Old Civilisation In Rajasthan Has Mythical River Saraswati Link
Deeg, Rajasthan: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has unearthed evidence of a civilisation dating back 4,500 years in Bahaj village of Deeg district, Rajasthan. The excavation, which began on January 10, 2024, has yielded several significant findings, including a 23-metre-deep paleo-channel which archaeologists are linking to the mythical Saraswati River, which is mentioned in the Rig Veda. This ancient river system likely supported early human settlements and connected Bahaj to the larger Saraswati basin culture. Over 800 artefacts have been unearthed in the excavation, including pottery, the oldest seals of Brahmi script, copper coins, Yajna Kund, Mauryan period sculptures, idols of Lord Shiva and Parvati, and tools made of bones. The excavation has revealed evidence of five different periods, including the Harappan post-period, the Mahabharata period, the Mauryan period, the Kushan period and the Gupta period. The recent findings suggest that the Braj region has been a centre of religious, cultural, and historical heritage. The excavation in Bahaj village reached a depth of about 23 meters, marking the deepest excavation ever conducted in Rajasthan to date. ASI site head Pawan Saraswat told NDTV the excavation uncovered an ancient river channel, or paleo channel, potentially linked to the Rigveda's Saraswati River. He said this water system likely supported early human settlements, connecting the Saraswati valley with the Mathura and Braj regions. According to the ASI team, the excavation also revealed Mahabharata-era layers with pottery and havan kunds, featuring rectangular and circular paintings and remains of fire rituals. The pottery matches descriptions of clothing and utensils from the Mahabharata period, officials said. Archaeologists believe that excavations at this site have yielded a statue dating back to 400 BC, which is believed to be the head of the Mauryan Mother Goddess. Mud walls and pillars of the Gupta architectural style, furnaces related to metallurgy, which indicated the use of raw materials of copper and iron. Tools made of bones, including needles, combs and moulds, have been found in this form for the first time in India. Other evidence found in the excavations includes terracotta statues of Shiva-Parvati, which are associated with the Shakti and Bhakti traditions. Conch shell bangles and semi-precious stone beads, which reflect the trade and beauty traditions of that period. More than 15 yajna kunds, which confirm the religious rituals of the Vedic and Uttarvedic periods. Apart from this, a human skeleton has also been found during the excavation, which has been sent to Israel for examination. The excavation offers a new direction to the understanding of the ancient history of not only Rajasthan but also the entire North India. The ASI has submitted a report to the Ministry of Culture, while the area is likely to be declared a National Archaeological Protected Area.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Proposal for retaining walls to mitigate floods with state: Misal
Pune: State cabinet minister and Parvati MLA Madhuri Misal on Thursday said the state govt was considering a proposal to allot Rs 200 crore to construct retaining and safety walls as part of flood mitigation and disaster management steps in the city. Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has tabled the proposal before the state govt. Misal said the govt will give further instructions after working on the proposal. The civic body proposed retaining and safety walls at various locations after instances of flooding in the city, but the work has been progressing slowly due to a lack of funds. PMC started the tendering process, however, it was scrapped due to various technical reasons. You Can Also Check: Pune AQI | Weather in Pune | Bank Holidays in Pune | Public Holidays in Pune "Besides the construction of the retaining wall, the civic administration has proposed various projects under the disaster management initiatives amounting to Rs 600 crore. The Centre approved Rs 80 crore recently for some projects,"Misal said. The minister was speaking to media persons after a meeting at PMC headquarters with officials on various issues. "The project of upgrading existing sewage treatment plants (STPs) and construction of new STPs has been taken up," she said. On the progress of the Swargate-Katraj underground Metro project, Misal said, "Two stations were proposed in addition to three stations proposed in the DPR. We will see how additional expenses can be shared by the state and centre," Misal said.
