The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Board (TTD) has decided that non-Hindu employees will no longer be allowed to work at the Tirupati temple. The board has asked these employees, around 300 people, to retire voluntarily. This decision has sparked a political debate. BJP leader Madhavi Latha supported the move, stating that only Hindus should be employed in temples. This has led to various reactions, with some agreeing with the decision and others opposing it. The change is seen as a significant shift in how the temple operates, and it has raised questions about religious identity and employment policies in religious institutions.
20 November,2024 02:32 PM IST
The Thane Forest Department recently conducted a large raid at a residence in Thane district, where they seized several species of wild animals. This operation, carried out by the Forest Department's territorial team, is being considered one of the biggest search and seizure efforts in Maharashtra’s history. The authorities discovered a variety of wild animals illegally kept at the home. This action highlights the ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and ensure the protection of endangered species. The raid is part of a larger push by the police and Forest Department to prevent illegal activities related to wildlife conservation. Watch the video.
12 November,2024 03:06 PM IST
In recent court proceedings, the 9th Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Court in Thane granted interim custody of six horses to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India following their use in illegal racing on a highway. PETA India filed an application seeking interim custody of the six horses on 8 October after the Kashigaon police station registered an FIR and seized the horses under Sections 291, 281, 125, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, along with Sections 11(1)(a) and 11(1)(l) of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960. The court, acting in accordance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Care and Maintenance of Case Property Animals) Rules, 2017, notified under the PCA Act, 1960, was pleased to allow PETA India’s application seeking interim custody of the horses and rejected the application for custody of the horses filed by the accused owners in the matter.
11 November,2024 12:26 PM IST
Join Alia Bhatt as she opens up about her friendship with Ranbir Kapoor and addresses the comparisons between them. In this heartwarming video, she also shares adorable moments with her 2-year-old daughter, Raha, while enjoying the songs "Radha Tere Chunri," "Kesariya," and "Badtameez Dil." Plus, don’t miss the special performance as Alia and Vedang Raina sing "Jigra." Tune in for a delightful blend of friendship, family, and music!
07 October,2024 05:50 PM IST
Taking an action against animal cruelty, the Kashigaon Police Station registered a first information report (FIR) against three individuals for organising and participating in an illegal horse-cart race that took place on 1 October in the station’s jurisdiction. The incident was brought into limelight after a whistleblower alerted People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. After submitting a complaint to Shri Madhukar Pandey, IPS, commissioner of police, Mira Bhayander Vasai Virar, PETA India collaborated closely with Shri Avinash Ambure, deputy commissioner of police (crime), and the Kashigaon Police Station.
06 October,2024 12:09 PM IST
On October 4, the Supreme Court established an independent Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the Tirupati Laddoo Row, which erupted after Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu accused the YSRCP government of using substandard ingredients in the famous Tirupati Laddoos. The new SIT comprises two members from the CBI, two from the state police, and one from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. The Supreme Court emphasized its intent to prevent the situation from devolving into a political spectacle, stating it remains open to being approached during the investigation but will not serve as a platform for political disputes. The controversy intensified after a lab report revealed the presence of “animal fat” in the prasad, sparking heated exchanges among political leaders. Amid this turmoil, Andhra Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan has called for the creation of robust legislation to protect Sanatana Dharma, adding another layer to the ongoing debate.
04 October,2024 04:45 PM IST
Pawan Kalyan, Andhra Pradesh's deputy chief minister and Jana Sena chief, has publicly declared himself an "unapologetic Sanatani Hindu" during an event in Tirupati. He introduced the 'Varahi Declaration,' which calls for a Sanatan Dharma Parirakshana law and the establishment of a dedicated board at both national and state levels to protect Sanatana Dharma. Kalyan criticized the judiciary, alleging that it offers protection to those who insult Hinduism while remaining unresponsive to similar offenses against Islam. He referenced Tamil Nadu's deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who had previously likened Sanatan Dharma to a virus, emphasizing the need for stronger legal measures to safeguard Hindu beliefs. Kalyan's statements reflect a growing concern among some political leaders regarding the perceived injustices faced by Hinduism in the current socio-political landscape
04 October,2024 11:54 AM IST
The Tirupati Laddoo Row has sparked widespread outrage across India, drawing significant attention to the issue. The controversy intensified after a heated exchange on social media between actor Prakash Raj and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. Pawan responded vehemently to Prakash’s criticisms, asserting, “Don’t make a mockery of our sentiments,” in defense of the sacred prasadam. This public dispute highlights the deep emotional ties many have to religious offerings. In a symbolic gesture, Pawan also performed a purification ritual at Kanaka Durga as part of his 11-day ‘Prayaschitta Diksha,’ aiming to reaffirm his commitment to the spiritual and cultural integrity of the prasadam. The exchanges between the two have captivated social media users and dominated news cycles, illustrating the potent intersection of faith, politics, and public sentiment in contemporary India.
25 September,2024 12:21 PM IST
In response to Tirupati Laddoo row, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) organized a Maha Shanti Homam to restore sanctity to the temple. TTD Executive Officer Shamala Rao, along with board officials and priests, participated in the rituals. To further uphold the temple's sanctity, an annual Pavitrotsavam will be conducted during Sravana Masam, aimed at seeking forgiveness for any errors by officials, priests, or devotees. Guided by Agama Shastra advisors, including Pedda Jiyangar, and upon the recommendation of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, the Homam will take place at three key locations: the Yagasala, Bangaru Bavi, and near the Garbhagudi. The culmination of the ritual will feature a ‘Panchagavya Prokshana’ ceremony, designed to purify significant areas of the temple, reinforcing the spiritual integrity of this revered site. This initiative reflects TTD’s commitment to maintaining the temple’s sanctity and addressing concerns from the community.
23 September,2024 01:18 PM IST
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of The Art of Living, addressed the Tirupati laddoo row, likening the situation to historical grievances like the sepoy mutiny of 1857. He expressed that the feelings of Hindus are profoundly hurt by the alleged mismanagement of the prasadam, calling it a "malicious" act driven by greed. He demanded strict penalties for those involved, including asset seizure and imprisonment. Ravi Shankar emphasized the need for rigorous oversight of all food products, particularly addressing concerns about adulteration. He proposed that temple management should be supervised by spiritual leaders, suggesting the formation of a committee comprising representatives from various religious communities, with minimal government involvement. His remarks highlight the importance of maintaining the sanctity of religious practices and ensuring transparency in food offerings.
22 September,2024 04:48 PM ISTADVERTISEMENT
