Latest news with #Shivratri
Hindustan Times
6 days ago
- General
- Hindustan Times
Residents struggle to reach temple on Shivratri due to waterlogged road in Gurugram
Residents and devotees in Rajendra Park, Sector 105, Gurugram, were forced to wade through stagnant, filthy water to offer prayers on the occasion of Shivratri on Wednesday, as the area outside the shrine in Block C remained waterlogged due to persistent sewer overflow and rainwater accumulation. The waterlogged street due to sewer overflow at block-C Rajendra Park near Shiv Mandir, Gurugram on Wednesday. (HT Photo) Women and elderly devotees could be seen navigating the dirty water, trying to keep themselves dry while reaching the steps of the temple. The waterlogged street raised serious concerns about hygiene and public health. 'Shivratri is a sacred day for us, and yet we are forced to walk through sewer water to reach the temple,' said a local woman who came to offer prayers early in the morning. Pushpa Devi, 50, a local resident said, 'Every year we celebrate Shivratri here. Women fast, pray, and offer water to Lord Shiva. But today, we had to walk through sewage to reach the temple. It feels heartbreaking. This is not just about inconvenience — it feels like we are disrespecting our own faith because of the condition we are in. No one should have to walk barefoot in this dirty water.' The problem is not new to the area. As reported earlier by residents through their complaints to MCG, they have been dealing with sewer line blockages and waterlogging for over six months. Complaints have been filed with the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG), but no permanent solution has been provided so far. After the recent rains, the condition worsened, leaving several parts of the area waterlogged for days. The stagnant water has led many residents to consider shifting homes or leaving the locality altogether. 'Government promises are only on paper. This is not the first time we're facing this. Every monsoon, the same story repeats — dirty water collects outside our homes, making life miserable. Children fall sick, and elders can't even step outside. Now people are seriously thinking about moving out. Even festivals don't bring happiness anymore when we can't even reach our temple without stepping in sewage,' said Tulsi Ram Sharma, a long-time resident of the area. When asked about the issue, Sunder Sheoran, executive engineer, MCG, said, 'Our machines and teams have already been deployed for dewatering the area. The issue is linked to the sewage system. At night, the water gets drained, but it returns again during peak hours in the morning. We have already floated a tender for desilting the main line. Work is also ongoing on the main sewer lines that connect to the STP (Sewage Treatment Plant). A permanent solution is in progress.' Residents have once again appealed to the authorities for urgent and permanent measures to resolve the issue.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
Rush hour traffic crawls, cops open DME for cars
Ghaziabad: In light of heavy traffic congestion at the border on NH-9 and DME following showers on Wednesday morning, traffic police removed restrictions on light vehicles on the DME. The expressway had previously been closed from Sunday night to ensure safe passage for kanwar pilgrims. ACP (traffic) Ziauddin Ahmad said that the number of pilgrims using the stretch had reduced significantly with Shivratri celebrations in full swing, therefore, there was no longer a necessity to close the expressway, and restrictions were eased to solve the heavy congestion. It took more than two hours for traffic police to control the situation. Kunal Verma, a commuter stuck in snarls on Wednesday, told TOI that it took him more than two hours to cross the Ghazipur area. Some police personnel were managing the traffic movement, he said. You Can Also Check: Noida AQI | Weather in Noida | Bank Holidays in Noida | Public Holidays in Noida Anshul Kumar, another commuter, mentioned that there was waterlogging at the underpass of DME and in the Ghazipur area. "One of the commuters' cars also broke down at the Ghazipur side, and this made more difficulties for people. Around noon, I reached the office in Delhi, and I left my house in Crossings Republik at 9.15am," he said. Vehicles were diverted to the Kaushambi side to travel to Delhi via Bhopura. More than 25 traffic police personnel were present at the spot along with local police to execute the diversion plan and manage traffic. On easing restrictions further, the ACP said, "The restrictions on heavy vehicles are still in place, and we will review the situation this evening. There are possibilities that heavy vehicles will also be allowed by tonight." Previously, entry points to the expressway at Khoda, ABES College, Crossings Republik, Dasna, and Bhojpur were closed for public use. Delhi-bound traffic was diverted to NH-9, which runs parallel to the DME. Traffic police had imposed a ban on all types of vehicles on DME from Sunday night but partially reopened it on Monday for one hour, between 11am and noon, to ease traffic movement. Similarly, on Tuesday, between 10am and noon, the restrictions were temporarily relaxed as numerous office-goers and commuters reached DME entry points requesting access due to work and business obligations.
Time of India
6 days ago
- General
- Time of India
A temple, a mosque, and the harmony in between
1 2 Panchkula: In Panchkula, amidst the sacred chants of "Har Har Mahadev" echoing from the 500-year-old Saketri temple, a different kind of devotion unfolds, one that transcends religion and celebrates the unity of communities. As the holy month of Sawan progresses, devotees come to the ancient Saketri Mandir to offer prayers to Lord Shiva, especially on Sawan Shivratri, considered one of the holiest nights in Hinduism. But beyond the spiritual reverence lies a heartening tale of communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims who share the sacred space not just in prayer, but in everyday life. Right next to the temple stands a mosque, and just outside the mandir, rows of stalls bustle with activity, many owned by members of both communities. Among them is Jalal Uddin, a vendor originally from Uttar Pradesh. Having moved to Panchkula 18 years ago, Jalal has become a familiar face around the Mansa Devi and Saketri temples, setting up his stall every Shivratri. On a hot July afternoon, Jalal arranges colorful toy fans at his stall. Nearby, Seema, whose father has a prasad stall at Mansa Devi since 2005 and has set up a stall at Saketri for Shivratri, teases him: "You're selling a toy fan, but you yourself are sitting in this heat!" The two share a hearty laugh before Seema returns to attend to a customer. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Container Houses Indonesia (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search Ads Search Now Undo These everyday interactions reflect a deep-rooted bond that has only strengthened over time. Kanta Rani, who sells prasad just across from a shop owned by Anwar Mohammad, says, "When there's a rush in the temple at night, these boys, including Anwar, help us manage the crowd. They hold sticks and allow people in batches, so things remain orderly." Anwar Mohammad, whose family runs four shops outside the mandir, shares a touching anecdote, "When there's a wedding in our community, the temple committee lends us utensils without hesitation. We help each other, that's how it has always been." KD Sharma, the Pradhan of the temple, echoes this sentiment with pride. "The Muslim community here is always ready to help, during big festivals or whenever we need them. We don't see differences. We live and work together." As the temple bells chime and incense diffuses through the air, the real offering at Saketri isn't just flowers or milk to Lord Shiva, it's the shared respect and brotherhood that bring these communities closer, year after year. Jalal, watching the evening crowd begin to gather, quietly says, "I have three children to feed and a family to support. That is my religion."
NDTV
7 days ago
- General
- NDTV
Sawan Shivratri 2025: 5 Satvik Recipes That Are Ideal For Fasting
The festival of Sawan is currently being observed across the country. Also known as the Shravan month, this time of the year is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is considered especially auspicious during this period. Shivratri, which falls during Sawan, holds particular spiritual importance. This year, Sawan Shivratri will be celebrated on Wednesday, 23 July. On this day, devotees gather in large numbers at Shiva temples. Water is poured over the Shivling as part of the Abhishek, and flowers, fruits and belpatra are offered to Lord Shiva. It is believed that praying to Lord Shiva on this day helps fulfil wishes. Devotees also observe fasts and consume satvik food. If you are fasting this Sawan Shivratri, you can include these five simple satvik recipes in your meals. What Is Sawan Shivratri And Why Is It Celebrated? Sawan Shivratri, which falls in the Shravan month, is considered an auspicious time to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to tradition, devotees perform water Abhishek on the Shivling and offer items like flowers, fruits, belpatra, milk, curd, and ghee to seek blessings. The fast observed on this day is believed to bring peace, prosperity and wish-fulfilment. Traditional Offerings Made On Sawan Shivratri Offer water on the Shivling and chant Om Namah Shivaya. Milk is poured over the Shivling as a sacred offering. Curd is another commonly used offering. Ghee, bhang and dhatura are also part of the ritual. Honey is often added during the Abhishek ceremony. 5 Fasting Recipes You Can Try On Sawan Shivratri: 1. Makhana Kheer: Creamy And Comforting Makhana Kheer is a comforting dessert that is ideal for fasting. Roasted makhanas are slow-cooked in milk with cardamom, almonds and cashews. This creamy pudding is a go-to satvik option for Sawan Shivratri and can also be offered to Lord Shiva. [ Click here for the recipe ] 2. Sabudana Khichdi: Quick And Light Satvik Meal Made with soaked sago pearls (sabudana), this light and mildly spiced khichdi is a staple during Navratri and Shivratri fasts. Quick to prepare, it makes for a wholesome meal that is easy on the stomach. Serve it with a bowl of curd for a balanced falahari dish. [ Click here for the recipe ] 3. Vratwale Aloo: Fasting-Friendly Potato Sabzi Vratwale Aloo is a classic fasting dish made using boiled potatoes, ghee, cumin, rock salt, green chillies, tomato and fresh coriander. This flavourful sabzi is best paired with kuttu ki puri (buckwheat flour puris), making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner during the fast. [ Click here for the recipe ] 4. Chaas And Lassi: Hydrating Drinks For Fast Days Milk-based drinks like chaas and lassi are part of traditional falahari diets. They help keep the body cool and hydrated during fasting. Try this easy Punjabi-style recipe to make chaas or lassi at home with minimal ingredients. [ Click here for the recipe ] 5. Singhare Aate Ka Halwa: Sweet Treat For Shivratri Singhare aata (water chestnut flour) is used to make this melt-in-the-mouth halwa, often prepared during fasts. Rich, nutty and festive, this traditional Indian dessert is perfect for Sawan Shivratri. This recipe is quick, simple and can be made easily at home. [ Click here for the recipe ] How To Plan A Simple Satvik Meal For Shivratri 2025 If you are observing the fast this year, these recipes can help you prepare satisfying and nutritious meals without onion or garlic. The focus stays on wholesome, light ingredients like makhana, singhara aata, sabudana and dairy. All the recipes are quick, simple and deeply rooted in tradition.
India Today
7 days ago
- Lifestyle
- India Today
The cost of convenience: What we lost to 10-minute deliveries
The year is 2006. I'm a 10-year-old in class 6, living in the middle of one of Delhi's busiest markets, Sarojini Nagar. Back then, it was a full-blown family market, buzzing with everything from clothes and footwear to electronics, furniture and stationery. I would often descend three floors to buy milk, bread, eggs or guests turned up unannounced, Mum would quietly slip me a Rs 50 note to fetch essentials. Like an obedient kid who obviously enjoyed these mini escapes from the four walls of home since there were no phones to stay glued to, I would rush through the busy lanes – without noticing the cool 'Sarojini ke kapde' hanging around the shops and walls - to Santosh before I would say a word, the shop owner would guess if I was back again for a litre of Mother Dairy toned milk and 250 grams paneer. Other days, I would go first and say, 'Bhaiya, ek kilo toned,' only to be corrected that milk is measured in litres and not kilos. 'Oh haan, sorry bhaiya,' I'd mumble, grinning sheepishly. Other errands included fetching tomatoes. The joy of being recognised, of being known! Some evenings, I'd manage to fill the steel pan of the weighing scale with exactly 1 kilo of tomatoes. No adjustments needed - no adding or removing a tomato - once the vendor placed the 1 kg weight on the other side. Oh, what a win that felt like! These small market runs taught me more than I realised at the time: quick mental maths, conversations with strangers, backup plans when a shop was shut. So much unintentional learning!PS: Even the negotiation skills (though still questionable) came from that free dhaniya-mirchi!Even as we moved through several homes across Delhi-NCR, what made a new place feel like home was the act of discovering a local kiraana store-and slowly becoming a familiar face there. Especially for my mother, who had transitioned from a joint family setup to a nuclear one. Those small market interactions were more than errands for delivery services enter the sceneThen came Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart - offering 10-minute deliveries and one-click convenience. Slowly and silently, they started replacing these tiny rituals. And while they've made things easier, they've also taken many 2025. There's no such thing as a 9 to 5 anymore. Work spills into all hours, and even after office, most of us are still answering messages and emails. Who wants to go downstairs just for a tray of eggs? Well, I still do.I enjoy picking up rice paper and fresh veggies after work to make dinner rolls. I'll grab milk, Holi colours, or even Shivratri samagri from the local shop when I can. But my mother? She's fully adapted. Even during Karwa Chauth, she ordered a pre-curated thali—sindoor, bangles, bindi and more—all delivered within minutes. It's efficient, no doubt. But sometimes I wonder: what happened to those small outings with Dad, where they handpicked everything with care? Her day now begins with comparing prices on Zepto, Blinkit or Instamart. Whichever offers the best deal gets the order. In the evening, if the house help mentions a missing item, she's already reaching for her phone to place an her grocery runs doubled up as mini walks. They boosted her mood, gave her steps (which the doctor says she needs many), and connected her to the neighbourhood. She'd stop to get a gas stove fixed, browse for a new suit, or snack on some fresh namkeen. Step count goals, anyone?The hidden costs of overdependency on instant deliveryThe sabziwaala would not only help her pick the freshest produce but also proudly inform her when he had brought kathal especially for her. In winter, she'd handpick bunches of sarson saag and get them chopped right there. While at it, she would also bump into an old aunty and talk about things ranging from increased prices of suit stitching, health concerns to any new colony scandal. These small exchanges filled in the quiet spaces of the day. They made sure loneliness didn't. advertisementBut it's not just her. Many of us are drifting in this direction - leaning more on apps, less on people. Our growing reliance on instant delivery is shrinking those everyday moments of interaction. The ones that quietly stitched our lives not the only cost. There's the financial one too. When you're too tired or too busy to plan your groceries, you end up ordering in pieces - adding things you didn't need just to hit the free-delivery minimum. Or paying more for one forgotten item. Whatever happened to monthly planning!Then there's the emotional trade-off - instant gratification. It's so easy to cave in to a late-night craving and order a bowl of ramen after watching a Reel. Before you've even thought about whether you really need it, it's already on its way. That quick dopamine hit doesn't last course, these apps are a blessing on tough days. When you're sick or short on time, they can be a lifeline. For people in under-served areas, they offer genuine access. This isn't about demonising maybe, next time you feel like swiping through a grocery app, head to a local shop instead. You might return with more than just groceries. A smile, a chat, a sense of connection and perhaps a small win with the weighing the cost of convenience isn't what you pay. It's what you miss.- EndsMust Watch
