Latest news with #Shiva
News18
3 hours ago
- General
- News18
‘Faith Has No Religion': Internet After Muslim Woman Prays At UP's Shiva Temple For Brother's Recovery
The viral video is said to be from Kanpur's Awantipuram, where a Muslim woman offered prayers at a Shiva temple. In an overwhelming display of interfaith devotion, a Muslim woman was seen offering prayers at a temple in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur. A video has caught the internet's attention, where the burqa-clad woman's activities have sent a widespread message of communal harmony. As per reports, the woman's brother was reportedly battling a serious illness, and she had prayed to Lord Shiva for his health. The incident is said to be from Awantipuram, Kalyanpur. As per India TV, the woman, a resident of the Mandhana area, was spotted by the locals as she prayed at the temple for her relative's recovery. Now that her brother has recovered, she visited the Shiva temple to fulfill her vow by performing a puja. The video in question shows the woman standing in front of the temple and performing the puja rituals while onlookers watched on in amazement. At one point, she is also seen folding her hands with devotion and praying at the temple. From the looks of it, the temple authorities or the locals didn't seem to have raised any objection but have welcomed the gesture with open hearts. A user defended the woman's act and said, 'This woman from Kanpur did what any loving sister would; she turned to faith, not division, in her brother's darkest hour. Praying at a Shiva temple wasn't betrayal; it was bravery. It was a desperate, honest plea for help when everything else failed. And when her brother recovered, she returned with prasad, a gesture of pure gratitude. Anyone who dares to shame her is not defending faith; they're attacking humanity. Her act didn't dishonor any religion; it honored life, love, and belief beyond boundaries." Another urged her not to turn her faith into a political message and commented, 'Personal faith is powerful, but let's not turn one story into a political message." A user added, 'Faith has no religion. When the heart is pure, every temple, every prayer… finds its way. This is India- where belief unites, not divides." Referring to the woman's faith in God for her brother's recovery, a user commented, 'Faith knows no boundaries—her heartfelt prayer at the Shiva temple became a miracle of hope and healing." Despite the warm response on the internet, a few were also seen calling out the woman for betraying her community. Nonetheless, the viral moment serves as a powerful reminder of how faith plays a bigger role than the boundaries of religion. First Published:
NDTV
9 hours 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.
News18
a day ago
- News18
Kanwar Yatra From July 11: No Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Iron Rods, DJs With Loud Music
Last Updated: Authorities expect over five crore devotees from Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh will travel to Haridwar and Rishikesh to collect Ganga Jal With the annual Kanwar Yatra set to begin on July 11, top police officials from six states convened in Haridwar on Friday to coordinate security and logistical arrangements for the massive pilgrimage. Authorities anticipate that over five crore devotees from Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh will travel to Haridwar and Rishikesh to collect Ganga Jal, which Kanwariyas traditionally carry in decorative pots suspended on bamboo structures called Kanwar, later offering it at Shiva temples in their hometowns. Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth emphasised that strict surveillance will be maintained to prevent the entry of anti-social elements during the Yatra. A joint decision was taken to prohibit Kanwariyas from carrying hockey sticks, baseball bats, iron rods, spears, or similar objects. Additionally, intelligence-sharing protocols were agreed upon among the participating states. The Kanwar Yatra brings key regions of NCR, western Uttar Pradesh, Haridwar and Rishikesh in Uttarakhand to a near standstill due to the sheer scale of participation. One recurring issue has been the presence of truck-mounted sound systems, commonly referred to as 'DJs," which blast loud music—ranging from Shiva bhajans to Bollywood songs—along the route. The mobile DJs often engage in competitive displays, creating noise pollution and public nuisance. Uttarakhand police have categorically stated that high-decibel music will not be tolerated within the state limits during the Yatra. Inspector General (Garhwal Range) Rajiv Swaroop told News18 that warnings have already been issued to around 50 prominent DJ groups, primarily based in western UP, Delhi and Haryana, urging them to comply with sound regulations. Popular DJ groups like Kasana, Monu, and Ravan are particularly favoured among younger Kanwariyas. However, residents in Uttarakhand have long complained about the disruptions caused by excessive noise levels, which in some cases have even led to broken windowpanes and property damage. The Yatra that begins on July 11 will conclude on July 23. During the two-week-long religious pilgrimage, the police will divert the route between Uttarakhand and the national capital. With inputs from Satendra & Pulkit First Published: June 27, 2025, 19:12 IST
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Apart from Jagannath Puri: 8 historical temples to visit in Odisha
Jagannath Puri is iconic, majestic, and practically one of the major crowd pullers in the region. But Odisha's temple run doesn't stop at Puri's gates. Here, you will find a treasure trove of historical temples that have managed to stand tall through wars, weather, and so much more. So, if you're temple-hopping in Odisha and want to avoid the crowd-surfing at Puri, here are nine lesser-known, no less divine, shrines to add to your spiritual bucket list. Konark Sun Temple Tucked away in the eastern state of Odisha, the Konark Sun Temple isn't just a monument—it's a jaw-dropping tribute to the original solar power icon, the Sun God himself. Built like a colossal chariot, complete with 24 stone wheels and seven horses (yes, all carved out of rock), this temple doesn't do subtle things. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar It's one of the ancient temples built in the 7th century by King Jajati Keshari. This temple holds great reverence as the Linga here, representing Lord Shiva in his phallic form, is believed to be self-manifested. It rises impressively, standing 8 inches above the floor and spanning nearly 8 feet in diameter. Mukteshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar Built in the 10th century, this temple is from Somavamshi Dynasty, and is one of the prominent temples in Odisha's temple circuit. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pistol de sudură laser multifuncțional siginificant Află mai multe Undo Small, yes, but mighty in its intricacy. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the architecture of this temple gives a glimpse of innovation in Kalinga style of architecture. Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar This temple exudes a distinctive charm, which sets it apart. Built during the 11th century, the temple is often referred to as the 'Love Temple' by locals, it is famed for its intricate erotic carvings of couples and women adorning the sanctum sanctorum. Interestingly, the temple was originally known as the Indreswara Temple and was dedicated to Lord Shiva. Read more: First batch of pilgrims reaches Manasarovar Lake as yatra resumes after 5 years: Chinese Ambassador to India shares photos Taratarini Temple, Ganjam This temple is believed to be one of the four major Shakti Peethas, as mentioned in mythological texts from the Satya Yuga. With a history believed to span over 6,000 years and references in the Puranas, it stands as a significant pilgrimage site for devotees. Ananta Vasudeva Temple, Bhubaneswar Constructed in the 13th century, it's a rare and remarkable shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple stands out as one of the few in Odisha devoted exclusively to Krishna. It was commissioned by Queen Chandrika of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, who played a pivotal role in initiating and overseeing its construction. Her vision brought to life this architectural gem, which continues to be a revered spiritual site in the heart of Bhubaneswar. Read more: World's oldest 3.7 billion-year-old stromatolite fossils are in this country and intriguing facts about them Chausath Yogini Temple, Hirapur This temple is believed to be the first 64 Yogini temples in India, from which the tradition spread to other states. It's also the smallest among the four major surviving 64 Yogini temples, and was built around 900 AD with coarse sandstone. It now shows signs of erosion but still holds historical and architectural significance. Parashurameswar Temple, Bhuvaneshwar Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Parsurameswar Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Believed to have been built around 650 AD in the Nagara architectural style, it draws visitors from across the world eager to explore its ancient charm and enduring mysteries.
Pink Villa
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Kannappa Review: Vishnu Manchu and Preity Mukhundhan's slow-paced film boasts star power but lacks proper conflict and technical finesse
Plot Set in second century CE, in the village of Uduppura, close to a forest near Sri Kalahasti, lives Thinnadu (Vishnu Manchu). Thinnadu is a fearless tribe hunter, who also happens to be an atheist. His father, on the other hand, is a Shiva devotee. One fine day while hunting, a wild boar leads him to a sacred hill with a Shivaling. After hunting down the boar, Thinnadu feels inexplicable pain. To get the pain off his chest, he offers water and meat to the deity. This pleases Lord Shiva (Akshay Kumar) but angers Mahadeva Shastri (Mohan Babu), a Brahmin who strongly opposes meat offerings. This triggers a clash between Thinnadu's raw devotion and the rigid rituals of Shiva devotees. Thinnadu meets Nemali (Preity Mukhundhan), a princess seeking the Vayulingam, and they develop a close bond. Rudra (Prabhas), a wise mentor, subtly guides him in the right direction of devotion. A meeting with Avadhoota (Mohanlal), deepens Thinnadu's devotion, further. As tensions with Shastri and the tribals peak, Thinnadu's sacrifices transform him into Kannappa, a legendary devotee. Watch Kannappa to follow Thinnadu's journey from being an atheist to a believer. What Works for Kannappa Kannappa finds its strength in the last 40 minutes. The movie is partly able to deliver a devotional story of Thinnadu from being an atheist to Shiva's devotee. The climax, with Thinnadu's selfless act, is well intentioned and it should resonate with Shiva devotees. The divine moments, framed by Shiva and Parvati's (Kajal Aggarwal) conversations, feel authentic. It is enhanced further by soulful background music and devotional songs. Prabhas brings the star power. Mohanlal's cameo as Avadhoota and Akshay Kumar's brief role as Shiva add gravitas to the spiritual scenes. What Doesn't Work for Kannappa First things first, the movie is too long and should have been atleast 40 minutes shorter if not more. The first half drags with a sluggish pace and unnecessary subplots and it is towards the ending of the second half that the pace gets better. The conflict between Thinnadu and Mahadeva Shastri feels repetitive and lacks depth. The romantic track between Thinnadu and Nemali is sweet but underdeveloped. It lacks emotional impact. The visual effects, especially in action sequences, often appear unpolished and artificial. Action scenes feel chaotic, with them lacking sharp choreography. This in turn, dilutes the impact of even the important scenes. Watch the Kannappa Trailer Performances in Kannappa Vishnu Manchu's performance as Thinnadu is adequate but lacks depth in early scenes. He luckily manages to pull it together, to an extent, in the emotional climax. Mohan Babu is commanding as Shastri, but his role feels one-note. Prabhas, as Rudra, brings calm wisdom but is severely underused. Preity Mukhundhan is earnest as Nemali, but her character lacks substance. Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar shine in their brief roles. However, their short presence on the screen, won't give the fans a bang for their buck. Final Verdict of Kannappa Kannappa has heart but that's not enough. The devotional tale has a stirring climax but is hampered by a slow first half, weak visual effects, and uneven storytelling. It shall appeal to Shiva devotees but the lacklustre pacing and the shallow subplots will not let the content fly beyond its limited target audience.
