Navratri is one of the most important festivals for the Hindu community. It is celebrated with great fervour and devotion across India, particularly in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal. This nine-day festival honours the nine avatars of Goddess Durga and is marked by vibrant festivities, traditional dances, and rituals. One of the most interesting aspects of the festival is the association of each of the nine days with a specific colour. On Navratri 2024, here is a look at the nine colours of the festival and their significance: Day 1 –Yellow This year, yellow is the colour for the first day of Navratri. On day one, devotees worship Goddess Shailaputri, who is considered to be the embodiment of nature. The colour yellow represents happiness, optimism, and warmth. Day 2 – Green The second day is associated with green, symbolising growth, fertility, and serenity. This colour represents the earth's abundant nature. Day two of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Brahmacharini, who signifies perseverance and devotion. Day 3 – Grey Grey is often considered to be a neutral colour, representing balance and tranquillity. On day three, devotees worship Goddess Chandraghanta, who is known for her bravery and calmness in the face of adversity. Day 4 –Orange Orange signifies energy, warmth, and ambition. The colour orange will mark the exuberant energy of Goddess Kushmanda, who is considered to have created the universe. Day 5 –White White symbolises purity, peace, and innocence. On day five, devotees celebrate Goddess Skandamata. Day 6 – Red Red is the colour of power and vitality, symbolising Goddess Katyayani, who is a fierce form of Devi Durga. The colour symbolises her strength and courage. Mumbaikars were spotted wearing yellow to celebrate the first day of NavratriVc: @KIRTISURVE #Navratri #Mumbailocals #Navratri2024 pic.twitter.com/E9Si4k4j95 — Mid Day (@mid_day) October 3, 2024 Day 7 – Royal blue The colour signifies elegance and prosperity. On day seven, devotees worship Goddess Kalratri, who is believed to remove darkness and negativity. Day 8 – Pink Pink symbolises affection and harmony. This colour is dedicated to Goddess Mahagauri, known for her beauty and compassion. Day 9 – Purple Purple signifies ambition, power, and nobility. On the last day of Navratri, devotees wear purple to appease Goddess Siddhidatri, who is believed to bestow wisdom and supernatural powers on her devotees.
03 October,2024 12:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs the festive season begins, millions across India are preparing to celebrate Chaitra Navratri. Navratri 2024 will be observed from October 3 to October 12. These nine days are dedicated to the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, symbolising the victory of good over evil. Navratri begins on Pratipada Tithi (the first day of the lunar fortnight) in the Hindu month of Ashwin. Chaitra Navratri is not just a religious observance but a celebration of culture, unity, and spirituality. Devotees engage in fasting, prayers, and vibrant celebrations filled with traditional music and dance, including Garba and Dandiya. Here are some lovely ways to wish your loved ones a Happy Navratri: Wishes: - Wishing you and your family a joyful and prosperous Chaitra Navratri! May Goddess Durga bless you with strength and happiness. - May the divine blessings of Maa Durga illuminate your life and fill it with joy and prosperity. Happy Navratri! - As we celebrate the nine nights of devotion, may you find peace, joy, and fulfillment in every moment. Happy Navratri! - Happy Navratri! Let’s celebrate the power of femininity and the triumph of good over evil. - Wishing you a Navratri filled with joy, devotion, and vibrant festivities. Stay blessed! - As we celebrate the triumph of good over evil, may your life be filled with joy and positivity. Happy Navratri to you and your family! - May the goddess bless you with wisdom and grace. Wishing you a joyful Navratri filled with love and togetherness! Images and Greetings: Social media is a wonderful platform to share your Navratri greetings. Use colorful images of Goddess Durga, traditional symbols, and festive decorations to spread the joy. Sending these visuals with personalized messages can deepen your connection with loved ones. Communities across the country organize events, including Durga Puja, Garba nights, and cultural programs. n Gujarat, Garba and Dandiya nights bring communities together for lively dances. In West Bengal, the festival is celebrated as Durga Puja, with magnificent idols of the goddess displayed in elaborately decorated pandals. In Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Navratri is marked by Golu, the display of dolls and figurines representing deities, legends, and social themes.
30 September,2024 04:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNavratri is one of India's most colourful and vibrant festivals, bringing not just devotion and joy, but also a sense of style. Navratri is slated to begin on October 3rd, 2024, and as always, it promises to be a time for fashion aficionados to express themselves via their festive wardrobe. Navratri, a nine-day holiday, is noted for its traditional dances like as Garba and Dandiya, in which people dress in ethnic attire. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of combining traditional clothing with modern components, resulting in a design that is both comfortable and fashionable. Traditional Attire with a Modern Twist Navratri fashion focusses on wearing vivid and extravagant traditional garments that reflect the festival's cultural significance. However, 2024 is predicted to witness a considerable influence from modern fashion trends, with designers and fashion enthusiasts putting unique twists on classic apparel. 1. Lehenga Cholis with Contemporary Cuts: Lehenga cholis is still the most popular choice for Navratri, but in 2024, expect to see lehengas with modern shapes and patterns. Some of the most popular current designs are high-low hemlines, ruffled lehengas, and off-the-shoulder cholis. These changes preserve the classic spirit while providing the clothes with a contemporary, fashionable appearance. 2. Fusion of Fabrics: Another significant trend for Navratri 2024 is the combination of traditional and modern textiles. Lehengas and cholis are made of traditional textiles such as bandhani, silk, and cotton, as well as more modern materials like satin or net. This combination achieves an ideal blend of ethnic charm and modern elegance. 3. Indo-Western Fusion Outfits: Indo-Western clothes are an excellent option for anyone looking to experiment with their appearance. Crop tops will be coupled with dhoti pants, skirts with jackets and saree-style draped garments that are both comfy and beautiful. These clothes provide greater freedom of movement during Garba and Dandiya, making them both practical and fashionable. 4. Layered Looks and Capes: Layering is another trend to keep an eye out for during Navratri 2024. Capes, long shrugs, and jackets worn over traditional dresses offer a modern spin to the look. These layers not only improve the appearance but also provide extra comfort throughout the night's celebrations. Vibrant Colours and Accessories Navratri is all about brilliant and vibrant colours. In 2024, traditional Navratri colours such as red, yellow, green, and blue will be mixed with pastels and metallics. Neon accents, mirror work, and bright prints will also be popular, bringing a whimsical element to festive outfits. Accessories are an important aspect of Navratri fashion. Chunky silver jewellery, oxidised bangles, and bold earrings are all expected to be popular selections in 2024. Maang tikkas (forehead ornaments) and kamarbandhs (waistbands) are also common, bringing a touch of tradition to modern ensembles. Comfortable Footwear Because Navratri includes hours of dancing, comfort is essential when it comes to footwear. In 2024, traditional juttis and mojaris (embroidered flat shoes) will remain popular alternatives. However, elegant trainers worn with lehengas and skirts are predicted to be a popular trend, providing both style and functionality.
28 September,2024 08:51 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNavratri is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, observed over nine days to honour the divine feminine energy. Navratri 2024 will be observed from October 3 to October 12. These nine days are dedicated to the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, symbolising the victory of good over evil. Navratri 2024: Dates and Timings Navratri begins on Pratipada Tithi (the first day of the lunar fortnight) in the Hindu month of Ashwin. The Navratri 2024 will begin on October 3 and end on October 12. During this time, devotees engage in fasting, worship and other sacred rituals to honour the Goddess. Ghatasthapana marks the beginning of Navratri and is considered a very sacred ritual. It involves invoking Goddess Shakti in a Kalash (sacred pot) and setting the tone for the nine days of festivity. Ghatasthapana Muhurat on October 3 is from 06:30 AM to 07:31 AM and Abhijit Muhurat will occur from 12:03 PM to 12:51 PM. 1. Day 1: October 3, 2024 – Pratipada 2. Day 2: October 4, 2024 – Dwitiya 3. Day 3: October 5, 2024 – Tritiya 4. Day 4: October 6, 2024 – Chaturthi 5. Day 5: October 7, 2024 – Panchami 6. Day 6: October 8, 2024 – Shashti 7. Day 7: October 9, 2024 – Saptami 8. Day 8: October 10, 2024 – Ashtami (Durga Ashtami) 9. Day 9: October 11, 2024 – Navami 10. Day 10: October 12, 2024 – Vijayadashami (Dussehra) Significance of Navratri Navratri holds deep cultural and religious significance in Hinduism. The festival is a celebration of Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, signifying the triumph of righteousness over evil. It also represents the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and destruction. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of Durga, and her devotees fast, perform rituals and engage in traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya. Cultural Celebrations Navratri is not just a religious festival; it is also a cultural spectacle. Different states of India celebrate Navratri with their unique customs. In Gujarat, Garba and Dandiya nights bring communities together for lively dances. In West Bengal, the festival is celebrated as Durga Puja, with magnificent idols of the goddess displayed in elaborately decorated pandals. In Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Navratri is marked by Golu, the display of dolls and figurines representing deities, legends, and social themes. Navratri Colors for 2024 Each day of Navratri is associated with a particular colour, and devotees often dress in these colours to honour the goddess: 1. Day 1: Yellow2. Day 2: Green3. Day 3: Grey4. Day 4: Orange5. Day 5: White6. Day 6: Red7. Day 7: Royal Blue8. Day 8: Pink9. Day 9: Purple Navratri 2024 offers devotees a chance to connect with the divine, reflect on the power of good over evil, and immerse themselves in spiritual practices. Whether through fasting, prayers, or cultural festivities, Navratri is a time to celebrate the goddess's energy, blessings, and protection. Mark your calendars from October 3 to October 12 for this auspicious festival and partake in the celebrations with devotion and joy.
27 September,2024 02:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe nine-day Hindu festival called Shardiya Navratri or Sharad Navratri is observed across India four times in a year. During this period, nine forms of the goddess Durga are worshipped, with idols installed in homes and temples. Devotees participate in various religious activities during Navratri, like observing fast, holding special prayers, having dances like Garba and Dandiya, and other cultural performances. Shardiya Navratri begins in the Hindu month of Ashwin on the Pratipada (first day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) and is celebrated until Navami (ninth day). This year, according to the Hindu calendar, Shardiya Navratri starts on October 3 and will conclude on October 11, which is the day of Navami. It is believed that during these nine days, goddess Durga stays with her devotees, which is why certain rules and rituals are to be followed to receive her blessings. Here are some things you should not keep in your house during the nine days: 1. Damaged or Broken Items: It is recommended to repair or destroy artefacts that are thought to bring misfortune, to bring in positive energy. If an idol is broken, it is preferable to submerge it in holy water. 2. Worn-out clothing or footwear: Since worn-out or ripped clothing and shoes are thought to draw bad energy, it is best to get rid of them by tossing them away or donating them. 3. Sharp Objects: Knives, scissors, and blades are examples of sharp things that are said to bring negativity and conflict. 4. Dried plants and flowers: Dried-up plants and flowers are regarded as unlucky and have the power to draw bad energy. 5. Pictures of Deceased Loved Ones: Displaying their images prominently in your home can give you a sense of sadness. Think about relocating these photos to a more segregated area while the festival is running. 6. Images with negative themes: Refrain from showcasing pictures or artwork that feature depressing or violent themes. These could make your house feel unfavourable.
27 September,2024 12:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi will be celebrating his 74th birthday on September 17. Born as Narendra Damodardas Modi on September 17, 1950, he was elected the Chief Minister of Gujarat for three terms (2001 to 2014) and is the current and 14th Prime Minister of India. As one of the most influential political figures in the world, PM Modi's journey from a small town in Gujarat to the Prime Minister's office has inspired millions. This year, to commemorate PM Narendra Modi's birthday, the Ajmer Sharif Dargah will distribute 4000 kilos of vegetarian langar on September 17. "In celebration of the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and conjunction with "Sewa Pakhwada," the historic and world-famous "Big Shahi Deg" at Ajmer Dargah Sharif will once again be used to prepare and distribute 4000 kg of vegetarian "Langar" food, continuing a tradition that has been upheld for over 550 years," an official statement from the Dargah authorities said. On the occasion of PM Narendra Modi's birthday, here are some interesting facts about him. 1. PM Modi, before contesting in the General Elections, was also the longest-serving chief minister of Gujarat. 2. He is the first Prime Minister ever to be born in Independent India. 3. Born to a Gujarati family in Vadnagar, PM Modi used to assist his father in selling tea at the local railway station as a child. 4. At the age of eight, PM Modi found out about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and started attending lectures or training sessions. He met Lakshmanrao Inamdar who became his mentor after inducting him as a junior cadet in the RSS. 5. PM Modi completed high school education in 1967 and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1978. He earned a Master’s degree from Gujarat University in 1982. 6. PM Modi, who went into forced hiding during the 1975 Emergency, has written a book in Gujarati language sequencing events of the time. 7. Post the 1971 war, PM Modi became a full-time campaigner for the RSS. He was assigned to the BJP in 1985. 8. PM Modi is a firm follower of the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and has often described visiting ashrams founded by Vivekananda: the Belur Math, Advaita Ashrama and the Ramakrishna Mission. 9. PM Modi ranked 15th in the 2014 Forbes Magazine list of most powerful people. In the same year, he was ranked the Person of the Year by Time magazine. He was included in Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2014, 2015 and 2017. 10. PM Modi is the second most followed leading personality on the social media platform 'X' (formerly Twitter) with over 90 million followers.
16 September,2024 12:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled ten significant schemes aimed at accelerating India's development across various sectors. The initiatives were launched to enhance infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic growth, marking a milestone in the country's progress. On PM Modi's birthday, here's a look at 10 major schemes launched by the prime minister. Affordable Housing Drive: The program will focus on providing affordable housing solutions in urban areas, with incentives for builders and subsidies for low-income families to make home ownership more accessible. - Clean India Mission 2.0: The scheme expanded version of the original Clean India Mission focuses on further improving sanitation and waste management in urban and rural areas. It includes the installation of advanced waste processing plants and enhanced recycling systems. - Smart Cities Expansion Program: Under this scheme, additional cities will be developed with smart infrastructure, including improved public transport, digital services, and green spaces, to boost urban living standards and sustainability. National Skill Development Initiative: Aimed at bridging the skill gap in the workforce, this program will provide vocational training and skill development opportunities to millions of youth, with a focus on emerging industries and technologies. Digital India 2.0: The Digital India initiative seeks to advance the digital infrastructure of the country by expanding internet connectivity, improving cybersecurity, and fostering digital literacy across all regions. - Healthcare for All: The new healthcare for all scheme will provide comprehensive medical coverage to underserved populations, including free diagnostic services, treatments, and medicines, to ensure better health outcomes for all citizens including senior citizens in India. - Renewable Energy Boost: The government launched the scheme to invest in renewable energy projects, including solar and wind farms, to increase the share of clean energy in the national grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels under the Renewable Energy Boost program. - Make in India: The Make in India campaign encourages domestic manufacturing and foreign investment. It's contributed to India's industrial growth and job creation. - Agriculture and Rural Development Scheme: The Agriculture and Rural Development Scheme initiative was launched to support farmers with advanced agricultural technologies, better irrigation facilities, and access to markets, while also promoting rural entrepreneurship and infrastructure. _ Startup India 2.0: To boost innovation and entrepreneurship, this scheme offers financial support, mentoring, and resources for startups, encouraging the growth of new businesses and job creation across the country under the scheme.
15 September,2024 10:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEvery year on September 14, Hindi Diwas is celebrated to appreciate the Hindi language and its rich cultural history. Hindi Diwas 2024 will be celebrated with a renewed emphasis on Hindi's evolution as one of India's most widely spoken languages. This day commemorates the establishment of Hindi as India's national language in 1949, honouring its significance in bringing people together across the country. Hindi Diwas 2024 is not only a day to celebrate Hindi as an official language but also to honour its rich literary heritage. From the devotional poetry of Kabir to the socially reflective novels of Munshi Premchand, Hindi has played a crucial role in shaping Indian literature and culture. The evolution of Hindi from its ancient roots to its modern form highlights its importance in uniting people across different regions and backgrounds. As we celebrate Hindi Diwas, it is a moment to appreciate the timeless beauty and depth of the Hindi language and its contribution to the world of literature. Evolution of the Hindi Language Hindi has a centuries-long history and is based on Sanskrit. It evolved in phases, beginning with the Prakrit and Apabhramsha languages spoken in ancient India. By the tenth century, Hindi had begun to take on a more distinct shape, influenced by diverse regional languages and dialects. During the mediaeval period, Hindi thrived, particularly with the emergence of two major forms: Braj Bhasha and Awadhi. These were spoken throughout northern India and formed the medium for many well-known poets. The Bhakti movement, which emphasised devotion to God, saw the birth of poets such as Kabir and Tulsidas, who used Hindi to spread their spiritual ideas to the masses. In the contemporary era, Hindi underwent additional alterations, particularly during the British colonial administration, when it became a symbol of national identity. The selection of Hindi as India's official language following independence in 1947 cemented its reputation as a unifying language. Today, millions of people speak Hindi in India and around the world, and it is one of the 22 scheduled languages under the Indian Constitution. Celebrated Literature in Hindi Poets, novelists, and playwrights have all contributed to the rich history of Hindi literature. Hindi writers have used the language to portray various emotions, societal challenges, and cultural narratives. 1. Bhakti Poetry: The Bhakti movement's devotional poetry was among the first forms of Hindi literature. Poets such as Kabir and Tulsidas performed critical roles in making Hindi accessible to the general public. Kabir's dohas (couplets) are eternal, imparting wisdom and life lessons, but Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas, an epic retelling of the Ramayana, is still one of the most treasured works in Hindi. 2. Modern Hindi Poetry: In the twentieth century, Hindi poetry saw significant development. Poets like Harivansh Rai Bachchan, whose work Madhushala is renowned for its intellectual depth, ushered in a new era of romanticism and reflection. Mahadevi Verma, a significant character in the Chhayavad movement, is known for her lyrical poetry on nature, emotions, and women's experiences. 3. Hindi Novels and Prose: Hindi prose literature has a long history, including renowned authors such as Munshi Premchand, whose novels Godaan and Nirmala are regarded classics. His works focus on the challenges of rural India and the plight of the underprivileged. Premchand's use of Hindi to convey social and political themes made his work popular among the public. 4. Contemporary Hindi Literature: Contemporary Hindi literature is evolving, with authors such as Nirmal Verma and Krishna Sobti adding to modernist storylines. Their work delves into the complexity of human relationships, identity, and India's evolving social fabric.
14 September,2024 05:55 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentHindi Diwas is celebrated annually on September 14 to commemorate the adoption of Hindi as one of the official languages of India by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. This day holds immense significance as it highlights the importance of Hindi in the cultural and linguistic diversity of India. Hindi Diwas 2024 will once again be an occasion to celebrate the beauty and richness of the language, fostering unity in diversity. History and Significance of Hindi Diwas The roots of Hindi Diwas trace back to September 14, 1949, when the Constituent Assembly of India adopted Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, as the official language of the Republic of India. Hindi was chosen because it was spoken by a large population across different regions of the country, representing linguistic and cultural integration. Hindi Diwas is also a tribute to the efforts of several freedom fighters, linguists, and scholars who advocated for the promotion of the language. Among them, Beohar Rajendra Simha, Mahatma Gandhi, and Kaka Kalelkar played a significant role in the upliftment and spread of Hindi. Importance of Hindi as a Language Hindi is the fourth most spoken language in the world, after English, Mandarin, and Spanish. It has its origins in Sanskrit and has absorbed influences from various languages over centuries, including Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and Portuguese. As a result, it is rich in vocabulary and expression, making it versatile and adaptable. In India, Hindi serves as a link language in many states, allowing communication between people who speak different regional languages. While the constitution recognises both Hindi and English as official languages of the Union Government, Hindi enjoys a special place in the cultural fabric of the nation. How Hindi Diwas is Celebrated On Hindi Diwas, various activities are organised across schools, colleges, and government institutions to promote the language. These include: Essay competitions, debates, and poetry recitals in Hindi. Workshops and seminars on the historical evolution of the language. Awards and recognition for individuals and organizations promoting Hindi literature and culture. Cultural programs such as plays, dance performances, and music recitals showcase the rich heritage of Hindi. The Rajbhasha Awards are presented on this day to government departments and ministries for their efforts in using Hindi in official communications. The Role of Hindi in Modern India In today's digital era, Hindi continues to thrive and evolve. With the rise of social media platforms and regional language content, Hindi has found its place in online spaces and digital media. The film industry, especially Bollywood, has also played a vital role in popularising Hindi globally. While English is often considered the language of business and education in India, Hindi remains the language of the masses. The government's push to promote Hindi, especially in official correspondence and government offices, is an effort to bridge the linguistic gap between rural and urban India. Challenges and Criticism Despite its widespread use, the promotion of Hindi has not been without challenges. India is a land of diverse languages, and many southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, have resisted the imposition of Hindi, advocating for the preservation of their native languages. This linguistic divide has sparked debates about the role of Hindi in a multilingual nation. The Indian constitution also recognizes 21 other languages under the Eighth Schedule, underscoring the importance of linguistic diversity in the country. Hindi Diwas, therefore, is not about imposing one language but about celebrating the linguistic heritage of India, where every language is respected and valued. Hindi Diwas is a celebration of India's cultural identity and linguistic diversity. As we commemorate Hindi Diwas 2024, it is essential to recognise the role of Hindi in uniting people from different backgrounds while embracing the multilingual richness of India. It’s a day to appreciate the beauty of Hindi, its literature, and its contribution to the country’s socio-cultural landscape. Let Hindi Diwas 2024 be an occasion to promote not only the language but also the values of inclusivity, diversity, and unity that Hindi represents.
13 September,2024 02:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEvery year, September 14 is celebrated as Hindi Diwas in India, a special occasion dedicated to promoting and popularising the Hindi language. The Hindi Diwas 2024 aims to encourage the use of Hindi in government offices and public communications. To support the initiative, the period from September 14 to September 21 is generally observed as Rajbhasha Week, featuring a range of literary and cultural events designed to highlight the importance of Hindi. India is set to celebrate Hindi Diwas with enthusiasm and pride as the country marks this important day dedicated to the promotion and appreciation of the Hindi language. Hindi Diwas is observed every year on September 14 and it highlights the significance of Hindi as a key component of India’s cultural and linguistic heritage. The Hindi Diwas is significant for fostering appreciation and usage of Hindi, which was officially recognized as India’s official language on September 14, 1949. This decision was made by the Constituent Assembly of India following the country’s independence in 1947. According to Article 343 of the Indian Constitution, Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, was adopted as the official language of the Republic of India. Although Hindi was not declared the national language constitutionally, it is widely regarded as a national language by Indians. In addition to Hindi Diwas, January 10 is observed as World Hindi Day. The global event was first celebrated in 1975 during the World Hindi Conference held in Nagpur, which saw the participation of 122 representatives from 30 countries. The idea for World Hindi Day was officially established in 2006 by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The purpose of this day is to promote Hindi on an international scale and emphasize its global significance. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the former prime minister of India, was the first person in a position of authority to speak in Hindi to a global audience while serving as the external affairs minister in 1977. He had delivered a speech in Hindi at the United Nations General Assembly. While Hindi Diwas focuses specifically on the recognition and promotion of Hindi within India, World Hindi Day aims to enhance the language’s global presence and encourage its use across the world. Both days underscore the cultural and historical importance of Hindi and seek to advance its status both nationally and internationally.
10 September,2024 09:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks were one of the most devastating events in US history. Coordinated by the extremist group al-Qaeda, the attacks claimed thousands of lives and reshaped global security and politics. Here's an overview of the essential facts about the US 9/11 attacks that everyone should know. The Attacks: A Coordinated Plot On September 11, 2001, 19 terrorists affiliated with al-Qaeda hijacked four US commercial aeroplanes to use them as weapons against symbolic American landmarks. Four planes were involved: American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City at 8:46 AM. United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower of the World Trade Center at 9:03 AM. American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon at 9:37 AM. United Airlines Flight 93, after passengers fought back against the hijackers, crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, at 10:03 AM, preventing it from reaching its intended target, believed to be either the White House or the US Capitol. Death Toll and Casualties The US 9/11 attacks resulted in the deaths of 2,977 people, including passengers, crew members, first responders, and civilians. Thousands more were injured. The fatalities occurred in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. World Trade Center: 2,753 people were killed in the collapse of the Twin Towers. Pentagon: 184 people died in the attack on the Pentagon. Flight 93: 40 passengers and crew members were killed when the plane crashed. In addition to the immediate death toll, many first responders and residents near the World Trade Center have since suffered from illnesses related to toxic exposure at Ground Zero. Who Was Responsible? The US 9/11 attacks were orchestrated by the Islamist extremist group al-Qaeda, led by Osama bin Laden. The hijackers were trained for months in how to pilot commercial jets and how to carry out their deadly mission. They exploited weaknesses in airport security, using box cutters and knives to take control of the planes. Immediate Aftermath The immediate aftermath of the US 9/11 attacks was marked by widespread panic, grief, and uncertainty. Both the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center collapsed within hours, causing catastrophic damage and leaving Lower Manhattan covered in ash and debris. Rescue and recovery efforts continued for weeks, with thousands of first responders and volunteers searching for survivors. The cleanup at Ground Zero lasted until May 2002, during which time New York City, and the nation as a whole, mourned those lost. Security and Policy Changes 9/11 led to a dramatic shift in US national security and foreign policy, including the launch of the “War on Terror” and increased counterterrorism measures: Creation of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Established in 2002, the DHS was created to oversee national efforts to protect the U.S. from terrorism, streamline intelligence, and improve disaster preparedness. The USA PATRIOT Act: Enacted shortly after 9/11, the PATRIOT Act expanded the US government's surveillance and investigative powers, allowing broader access to communication data, financial records, and foreign intelligence. Airport Security: The attacks led to the establishment of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which implemented stringent airport screening procedures, including banning certain items on planes and enhancing passenger and luggage checks. The Hunt for Osama bin Laden Osama bin Laden, the mastermind of the US 9/11 attacks, became the most wanted man in the world after the attacks. After nearly a decade of intelligence gathering and military efforts, US Navy SEALs located and killed bin Laden in a raid on his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, on May 2, 2011. His death was considered a significant victory in the War on Terror, though al-Qaeda and other extremist groups remain active globally. Memorials and Remembrance Several memorials have been established to honour the victims of the US 9/11 attacks: National September 11 Memorial & Museum: Located at the World Trade Center site in New York City, the memorial features two large reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood, surrounded by the names of those who died in the attacks. Pentagon Memorial: An outdoor memorial in Arlington, Virginia, honours the 184 people who lost their lives in the Pentagon attack. Flight 93 National Memorial: This memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, commemorates the heroism of the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93. Each year on September 11, memorial services are held across the US to remember the victims, honour the first responders, and reflect on the profound impact of the US 9/11 attacks. The US 9/11 attacks not only changed the United States but reshaped global politics, security policies, and the fight against terrorism. The memory of the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the bravery of first responders, survivors, and everyday citizens continues to serve as a reminder of the resilience and unity that followed one of the darkest days in modern history.
10 September,2024 08:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
