Latest news with #Vaishnavism
Deccan Herald
3 days ago
- Politics
- Deccan Herald
Handling the Arambai Tenggol tangle in Manipur
Emboldened by the imposition of President's rule in February this year, the Manipur Police, which had hitherto been cautious about taking any legal action against members of the radical outfit - the Arambai Tenggol (AT) - has now adopted a more assertive approach, actively rounding up those who took law in their own July 8, six AT members were arrested from two districts for assaulting Manipur police officials in Bishnupur on June 9. The Meiteis have been astir, demanding the release of the AT leader, Asem Kanan Singh, and even calling for a bandh on June Singh had been arrested by the CBI at Imphal airport over 'his involvement in various criminal activities related to Manipur violence in 2023'. Twelve others who had been detained for questioning have been released. Kanan Singh was a head constable with the Manipur police, but was sacked for his alleged involvement in smuggling of group's radical outfit, AT, raised in 2020 by Leishemba Sanajaoba, the scion of the erstwhile royal family of Manipur and presently a Rajya Sabha member, has been calling the shots in the state. One of the outfit's main objectives is for Meiteis to revert to the native religion of Sanamahism - nature worship - which had been slowly replaced by Vaishnavism that rooted itself in Manipur in the later half of 18th century. .An AT spokesman, announcing the withdrawal of the 10-day bandh call on June 10, said that the 'group was formed as an unarmed socio-cultural organisation to preserve and promote the culture and traditions of Manipur. Circumstances forced us to take up arms'. .But during the mayhem that gripped the state from May 3, 2023, the AT, in collusion with other miscreants, looted weapons and ammunition from the armouries of police training schools, India Reserve Battalions, and police stations. Of the 5,600 arms and over 6.5 lakh rounds of ammunition looted, only 1,500 weapons and 20,000 rounds had been recovered by the police as of October on Arambai Tenggol intensifies in the imposition of President's rule, members of AT and other radical outfits surrendered hundreds of weapons. Simultaneous joint operations, carried out by the Central Armed Police Forces, Army, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, in mid-June yielded 328 weapons, including SLRs, LMGs and carbines. On July 15, 86 more weapons, including AK Rifles, carbines and pistols, were recovered along with 974 live rounds. Still a large haul of arms and ammunition continue to be in the wrong around 60,000 men on their rolls, armed cadres of the Arambai Tenggol, meaning 'dart-wielding cavalry', move around the valley sporting black T-shirts with AT insignia, threatening locals. The extent to which the AT has spread terror in the state can be gauged from the fact that on a call given by the outfit to all legislators, 37 MLAs and two MPs attended a rally in January last year in Kangla fort, in the heart of MLAs were directed to submit their six demands to the Centre, which included expediting the NRC with 1951 as the cut-off date, abrogation of Suspension of Operations, better known as SoO, with the Kuki-Zo, withdrawal of Assam Rifles as they felt the para military forces was biased, removal of names of illegal migrants from the Schedule Tribe list, complete fencing of Indo-Myanmar border and shifting of Myanmar refugees to neighbouring these, the Centre has accepted the demand for fencing of the Manipur-Myanmar border, work for which has already begun. But there has been stiff opposition to the fencing by both Nagaland and Mizoram governments as they aver that the kin of people residing close to the border are related to those residing across the border, so much so that children from across the border attend schools in their part of the country and return home after school is, therefore, no surprise that a large number of refugees from Myanmar have sought shelter in Mizoram due to the conflict raging between the ethnic groups and Myanmar's Junta government. The Myanmar Air Force has even resorted to strafing hostile villages. These internecine clashes have, therefore, led to mass influx of Myanmarese to neighbouring the SoO tripartite agreement among the Centre, the Manipur government and the Kuki National Organisation, a conglomerate of 17 Kuki outfits, and the United People's Front with eight other Kuki outfits under its umbrella, signed in 2008, has been periodically extended. .The SoO agreement with the Centre and the State which was being extended till 2023 is in a state of limbo since the Manipur government wanted the agreement to be terminated as there were allegations of their active participation in the ethnic conflict during the last two years, though the Kuki-Zo representatives assert that the former militants were all confined to their talks between the Centre and the representatives of Kuki-Zo tribals that took place in New Delhi on June 9 and 16, has also hit a dead end. The Kuki-Zo representatives have been demanding Union Territory status with a legislature for the Kuki-Zo dominated districts. This is, however, being vehemently opposed by the Meiteis, who are resisting any bifurcation of the is time the concerned parties negotiate for peace in the north eastern state that has been periodically rocked by conflicts, impacting its development..(The writer is a retired Inspector General of Police, CRPF)
The Hindu
4 days ago
- General
- The Hindu
75 years of education in a nutshell
'One of the early Matriculation schools in Madras' I am from the first batch of students (1950) who went to Rosary Matriculation School. My sister was studying at St. Raphael's Girls School, which followed Tamil medium of instruction, and the nuns asked my father to enrol me with Rosary as it had just opened. It was kind of trendy to study in a matriculation school then and there were only four such schools for girls in Madras of those times — Sacred Heart, Good Shepherd and CSI Ewarts being the others. Most of our school years were spent on the campus at Kutchery Road, and for a while we also shared space with Stella Matutina College of Education. Students of all matriculation schools had to come to Lady Willingdon College to write their exams and it was customary to be taken to St. Thomas Mount before appearing for the examination. Our results were displayed on the Madras University's big notice board and parents would troop in early in the morning to see their children's marks. There are many life lessons that I have learnt from the school; and picked up many skills too, including communication skills that I developed thanks to Ms. Paul (English teacher) and principal Mother Teresa Xavier who was strict but kind at heart. Every time I recite my sloka, I am reminded of the Sanskrit master. Dr. Swarnalatha Selvaraju is 79 years old and lives in Malaysia 'Rosary used to be a co-educational institution' Now, one would automatically associate Rosary with education for girls, but in its early years until Fifth Form this was a co-educational institution. I have shared bench with boys as my classmates. While a majority of the staff were women, Sanskrit and Tamil subjects were handled by two male teachers. Among the gains from studying at this institution are: a disciplined approach to life and work and a whole lot of skills including good spoken English. The sisters were particular about how we dressed to school, and plays and dance drama brought out histrionic talent in many of us. We had two houses — Loretto and Fatima, the former identified by pink and the latter, blue. Pinafores and half saris were worn as uniform. I was once made the 'bank agent', an activity where we collected money for certain occasions and learnt how to maintain an account. We used to have cooking sessions, needle work and sewing classes under domestic science. Whatever we learnt at school contributed to our holistic development. Vanamala Parthasarathy is a multilingual scholar of Vaishnavism and lives in Bengaluru. She is from the 1958 batch of the school. 'Those classes kindled my interest in nutrition' Classes in household arts or home science, as it was later called, kindled my interest in nutrition and dietetics and I would go on to build a career in that discipline. I still remember how we were taught to make ice cream in the pantry. The cycle rickshaw was our favourite mode of transport to school. Saroja Raghavan retired as head of department of Dr. Mohan Diabetes Specialities Centre in Gopalapuram 'Rosary and its equally illustrious neighbours' Much before Santhome High Road was lined with schools, the tram line ran from Luz Church Road to Santhome. Many working professionals used this network to head to Parrys. Later, for many Mylaporeans, this road would gain in prominence for the row of schools run by Christian organisations. St. Raphael's was one of the oldest schools. Sometimes, one would find students moving from one school to another on the same road. Once they completed middle school at Montfort School, they would move to the next building, which would be Santhome High School. And students of Dominic Savio would join St. Bedes. My two sisters pursued their school education in Santhome, one studying at St. Raphael's and the other at Rosary. Rosary operated a school bus, a novelty in those times. My elder sister, Late Meenakshi Subramanian served as chemistry teacher at Rosary and many of her students including 'Apollo sisters' and retired Judge Prabha Sridevan were in touch with her. So strict were the nuns that yesteryear actor and an old student of the school L. Vijayalakshmi was not permitted to sit for the matric university exam as she did not attend the selection exam. Where the present Rosary Matriculation School is, Stella Maris College used to be before it moved to Cathedral Road in the late 50s. K.R. Jambunathan is a long time resident of Mylapore and has been chronicling hidden stories of the neighbourhood
The Wire
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Wire
Hari Hara Veera Mallu is the Divine Fusion of Shiva and Vishnu: Jyothi Krisna on His Grand Saga of Sanatana Dharma
Dispelling long-standing rumours that Hari Hara Veera Mallu is based on a well-known folk legend, the makers have now unveiled a powerful truth — the film is not a retelling of an old tale, but a rich fictional saga deeply rooted in Sanatana Dharma, crafted for a new era of mythic storytelling. Director Jyothi Krisna, who took charge of the project midway, has reimagined the narrative entirely, injecting it with spiritual symbolism and cinematic might. 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu is not just a historical warrior — he is a divine manifestation, a fictional character inspired by the combined energies of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu,' shares Jyothi Krisna. 'We didn't just want to tell a story; we wanted to create a legacy. Veera Mallu is that bridge between Shaivism and Vaishnavism, like Ayyappa Swamy.' The title itself reveals the spiritual essence — Hari symbolizing Vishnu and Hara symbolizing Shiva. This duality is seamlessly translated on-screen through potent imagery: the eagle, symbolizing Garuda (Vishnu's vahana), soars as a silent sentinel, while the protagonist's Damarukam (Lord Shiva's drum) beats the rhythm of righteousness. Sources close to the film suggest the protagonist is a force born from both deities, destined to rise when Dharma is threatened. Veteran producer AM Rathnam, known for his grand cinematic vision, has backed the film with uncompromising scale and ambition. Without pre-selling the rights (barring overseas and Hindi), Rathnam made a calculated decision to let the visuals speak first — and it worked. The trailer release became an instant blockbuster online, drawing unprecedented attention and buzz. Distributors are now in a race, offering record-breaking sums to acquire rights. Rathnam's belief in the film's visual and spiritual power has paid off — and how. Hari Hara Veera Mallu is not just a film — it's a visual hymn to the eternal spirit of Dharma, a divine epic where mythology meets magnificence. Witness the rise of the divine protector. Hari Hara Veera Mallu — where cinema meets Sanatana. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
&w=3840&q=100)
India.com
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Hari Hara Veera Mallu Is The Divine Fusion Of Shiva And Vishnu: Jyothi Krishna
Chennai: Dispelling long-standing rumours that the power star Pawan Kalyan-starrer 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' is based on a well-known folk legend, the makers have now unveiled a powerful truth — the film is not a retelling of an old tale, but a rich fictional saga deeply rooted in Sanatana Dharma, crafted for a new era of mythic storytelling. Director Jyothi Krishna, who took charge of the project midway, has reimagined the narrative entirely, injecting it with spiritual symbolism and cinematic might. 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu is not just a historical warrior — he is a divine manifestation, a fictional character inspired by the combined energies of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu,' shares Jyothi Krisna. 'We didn't just want to tell a story; we wanted to create a legacy. Veera Mallu is that bridge between Shaivism and Vaishnavism, like Ayyappa Swamy.' The title itself reveals the spiritual essence — Hari symbolizing Vishnu and Hara symbolizing Shiva. This duality is seamlessly translated on-screen through potent imagery: the eagle, symbolizing Garuda (Vishnu's vahana), soars as a silent sentinel, while the protagonist's Damarukam (Lord Shiva's drum) beats the rhythm of righteousness. Sources close to the film suggest the protagonist is a force born from both deities, destined to rise when Dharma is threatened. Veteran producer AM Rathnam, known for his grand cinematic vision, has backed the film with uncompromising scale and ambition. The film's music has been scored by the iconic M.M. Keeravaani. The film has cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa and Gnanashekar V.S. and production design by Thota Tharani. Editing for the film is by National Award-winning editor K L Praveen. Apart from Pawan Kalyan, Nidhi Aggarwal and Bobby Deol, 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' will also feature Nassar, Sathyaraj, Thalaivasal Vijay, Raghu Babu, Subbaraju and Sunil among many others.
Hans India
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
‘HHVM' is not a biopic, but an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Shiva
Amid swirling reports that Hari Hara Veera Mallu is inspired by a legendary folk hero, inside sources reveal an intriguing truth—the upcoming period drama is, in fact, a fictional tale centered on a divine warrior who safeguards Sanatana Dharma. Following a change in directorial leadership, Jyothi Krishna stepped in and reshaped the film's narrative while retaining its spiritual core. Sources say the character of Veera Mallu draws inspiration from divine elements, akin to how Lord Ayyappa is born from Lord Shiva and Mohini, symbolizing unity between Shaivism and Vaishnavism. 'The title itself—Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva)—captures the film's essence,' shared a source. With powerful symbols like Garuda (eagle) and Damarukam (drum), the character visually embodies both deities, emphasizing his mission to uphold Dharma. Bankrolled by A.M. Rathnam, known for his grand productions, the film has been made on a lavish scale without compromising quality. The team resisted early rights sales, except for overseas and Hindi markets. Following the trailer's blockbuster reception, distributors are now lining up, offering massive deals. Starring Power Star Pawan Kalyan in a never-before-seen avatar, the film chronicles the journey of a rebellious warrior who defies the Mughal empire. With Krish Jagarlamudi's creative input and Jyothi Krishna's direction, the project has shaped into a cinematic spectacle. The ensemble cast includes Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, and others. M.M. Keeravani's powerful music has already struck a chord with fans, while visuals by Gnana Shekar V.S. and Manoj Paramahamsa and editing by K.L. Praveen ensure an epic visual ride. Produced by A. Dayakar Rao under Mega Surya Production and presented by A.M. Rathnam, Hari Hara Veera Mallu is set for a grand theatrical release on July 24th.
