President Donald Trump playfully considered dismissing his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. He stated that he would keep her despite receiving overwhelmingly negative press coverage. Trump believes the public does not trust the media. Leavitt has a history of confronting reporters
April 2026: 5 simple ways to attract positive energy and clarityThis is not a month to rush or force clarity. Instead, it is a time to slow down, stabilise your energy, and let things fall into place naturally. Published on: Apr 01, 2026 10:29 AM IST Edited by Kanakanjali Roy Share via Copy link
Overall conditions in Delhi are expected to remain variable, with a mix of brief cooling, rising temperatures and intermittent rainfall. No extreme weather is forecast yet. Today’s Weather: Delhi-NCR witnessed unseasonal rain on Tuesday, leading to a drop in daytime temperatures
‘We are deeply disturbed’: Raqesh Bapat’s family slams Vishal Kotian over personal remarks, clash on Bigg Boss Marathi 6Raqesh Bapat landed in a heated controversy on Bigg Boss Marathi 6 as his clash with Vishal Kotian escalated from a verbal spat to a physical altercation. Apr 1, 2026
Petrol & Diesel Price Hike: Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have increased the prices of premium fuels in Delhi, even as volatility in global energy markets continues amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The price of IndianOil’s XP100 petrol, India’s first 100-octane premium fuel
A group of retired civil servants and former diplomats on Tuesday expressed concerns about a recent order issued by Assam’s special chief secretary for environment deploying about 1,600 personnel of the state’s forest protection force for duties related to the upcoming Assembly elections
Nita Ambani wows in minimal look for Mumbai Indians team dinner; her pink diamond earrings are anything but simpleNita Ambani hosted the Mumbai Indians team at the Ambani residence, Antilia. She wore a simple floral look for the occasion, styled with diamond jewels. Updated on: Apr 01
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.Frustrated with slow tablets? These top 5 reliable tablets fix that, picks from Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, moreThese tablets come with newer and faster processors and adequate storage
Tilak, Raksha Sutra: VHP's 'Hindus Only' Diktat For Garba Entry Stirs Political Row
Tilak, Raksha Sutra: VHP's 'Hindus Only' Diktat For Garba Entry Stirs Political Row
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has come up with a set of requirements, including a 'tilak' on the forehead and a ‘raksha sutra' (sacred thread), in order for Navratri devotees to get entry into Garba events. This step has been taken to ensure that only Hindus attend these events.
As part of the VHP's ‘Hindus Only' diktat, garba event organisers will check Aadhaar cards at entry points, apply 'tilak' on their foreheads and ensure that they offer prayers before they are allowed to enter the Garba events. This step has been taken to prevent ‘Love Jihad', a term used for the alleged conversion of Hindu women by Muslim men.
Cow urine, or ‘gaumutra', will also be sprinkled on attendees, NDTV reported, citing the organisation's Vidarbha general secretary Prashant Titre. Furthermore, VHP and Bajrang Dal workers will monitor the events to prevent the entry of non-Hindus during garba.
“Garba is not merely a dance but a form of worship to please the goddess. They (apparent reference to Muslims) do not believe in idol worship. Only those having faith in the rituals must be allowed to participate," VHP national spokesperson told news agency PTI.
VHP's Vidarbha convenor, Navin Jain, said garba was not merely a dance programme or a cultural event but also a form of sacred worship. “Every participant should be asked to bow before the goddess' picture at the entrance," he told reporters in Nagpur on Saturday. Any kind of intoxication or smoking will also be banned from the programmes.
“In the last few years, it has been seen that Hindu girls have been targeted for love jihad, prompting us to appeal to garba organisers to not allow such people," Jain said.
ALSO READ: ‘Won't Be Spared': Bhopal BJP MP's Warning To ‘Love Jihadis' Over Garba Participation
Reacting to the VHP's stand, Maharashtra minister and BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule said organisers have the right to set such conditions of entry at an event. “The only decisive factor is whether the event has police permission. The organising committees must take decisions based on that," he said.
Maharashtra BJP media chief Navnath Ban also echoed the statements of VHP leaders, saying “those from other religions should not interfere while Hindus perform garba and worship the goddess."
However, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said the VHP was attempting to create a communal atmosphere in the country. “Creating a communal atmosphere and this country is their livelihood. I am not talking about equal respect for all religions, but the way this poison is being spread does not behove Maharashtra or the country," he said.
Maharashtra Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar accused the VHP of dividing the society for political benefits. “They want to divide society over religion and reap political benefits out of it. What VHP has said is nothing new. The organisation is born with an intention to destabilise the country," he added.
Swipe Left For Next Video
BJP's Ban hit back at Wadettiwar, saying, “They (Congress) are the ones who caused rifts in society. The Maha Vikas Aghadi government (of which the Congress was a part) failed to protect Maratha reservation."
(with inputs from PTI)
Source: News18
Related Posts: H-1B visa overhaul might revise wage requirements Zilla Parishad Poll Row Row erupts after VHP urges garba organisers to not allow entry of non-Hindus Four VHP, Bajrang Dal members arrested for vandalising Christmas decor at Nalbari school Hindu Teacher’s Home Set Ablaze In B Hindu Man Set Ablaze By Mob Dies Of Injuries As Bangladesh Teeters Ahead Of Polls Owaisi slams lynching of Hindu youth in Bangladesh SC to hear on December 1 plea of Hindu party in Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah mosque dispute case Bangladeshi Hindu Garage Worker Burnt Alive While Sleeping Lucky Ali Slams Javed Akhtar Over Hindu-Muslim Remark
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed their decision on Fakhar Zaman on Tuesday following the ball tampering incident in Lahore Qalandars vs Karachi Kings fixture held on Sunday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Fakhar Zaman has received a two-match suspension in the Pakistan Super League (PSL)
11 hours ago
Does your house have a concrete roof or a thatched one? What is your main cereal? Do you have internet access - or just a basic mobile phone? And how many married couples live under your roof? These are among the 33 questions that more than a billion Indians will be asked as the country launches
11 hours ago
Divorced couples in Japan are now allowed to share custody of their children, after a landmark revision to Japan's Civil Code took effect on Wednesday. Before the amendment was approved by parliament in 2024, Japan was the only G7 country that did not recognise the legal concept of joint custody
11 hours ago
Dubai, Apr 1 (AP) US President Donald Trump told reporters Tuesday that the responsibility for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open should belong with countries that rely on it, rather than the US. He said there’s “no reason for us to do this." Trump expressed frustration earlier Tuesday with
11 hours ago
The buzz around the rebranded Lucknow Super Giants team is high ahead of the new Indian Premier League season. The Shaheed Path highway here, which leads into the city from the airport, is dotted with flags and cutouts of the host side’s players on the eve of their campaign opener against Delhi
11 hours ago
Miss India Nikita Porwal brings celestial beauty to fashion awards, fans call her a goddess: 'Miss World right there'Miss India Nikita Porwal shines on the red carpet in a stunning gown adorned with shimmering pearls and crystals that caught the light with every movement. Published on: Apr 01
11 hours ago
April Full Moon 2026: Tarot guidance and rituals for each zodiac signPink Moon 2026: Even if you do not believe in tarot or moon rituals, taking a few quiet moments for yourself can still feel calming and helpful. Updated on: Apr 01, 2026 9:30 AM IST By Kanakanjali Roy Share via Copy link The Full
11 hours ago
In a first for the country, the Ministry of Mines informed on Tuesday (March 31, 2026) that thirty mineral blocks have been made operational in a single financial year, that is, FY 2025-26. Essential to note, most of the blocks that have been made operational are that of limestone
11 hours ago
Having risen steadily over time, the share of Indian households who use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as their primary source of fuel for cooking is now at 60% as of 2024. Another 33% of households still used firewood. This data comes from India's Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys
11 hours ago
Reliance Jio is known for its innovative offerings, whether it’s free internet or budget-friendly recharge plans. Now, the company is venturing into the electric bike market with an upcoming e-bike that promises to feature remarkable specifications
11 hours ago
Italy shattered as distraught players left in tears after missing World Cup for third straight time - See Photos Updated on: Apr 01, 2026 10:35 AM IST Written by Aditya Maheshwari Share via Copy link Italy's Marco Palestra, left, and Leonardo Spinazzola console each other after losing a penalty
11 hours ago
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.Struggling with calls on the go? These 5 premium earphones feature crystal clear callingWireless earphones designed for clear calling focus on strong microphones
11 hours ago
KEAM Admit Card 2026 releasing today at cee.kerala.gov.in, here's how to download Published on: Apr 01, 2026 9:06 AM IST By HT Education Desk | Edited by Papri Chanda Prefer HTon Google Quick Read Share via Copy link The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Kerala
11 hours ago
The new financial year FY 2025-2026 has kicked in from today. Check key financial and regulatory changes. New Delhi: India will see a slew of financial and regulatory changes with the beginning of the new fiscal year on April 1, 2026, affecting taxes, fuel, banking and rail travel
11 hours ago
Your IPL plans are officially sorted! From electric rooftop screenings to laid-back dine-ins, here’s where you should be catching every six, wicket, and last-over thriller with your gang. For all the craft beer lovers, this one’s a no-brainer. Expect great brews, live match energy
11 hours ago
Malayalam filmmaker and screenwriter Ranjith Balakrishnan was arrested after a sexual assault complaint filed by a young female actor. Ernakulam: Prominent Malayalam director-producer Ranjith was arrested following an alleged sexual assault complaint filed against him by a young actress
11 hours ago
Observing that the legality, validity and propriety of transfer orders issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) have not caused any public injury, the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday (March 31, 2026) dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the transfer of administrative and
11 hours ago
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the teenage prodigy's explosive knock helped RR chase down CSK’s modest total with ease on Sunday, securing an eight-wicket victory and etching his name among the fastest fifty-makers in IPL history. In a sensational start to the IPL 2026 season, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
11 hours ago
Unlike the F-35 Lightning II, the AMCA is designed for full operational control and allows the country to integrate its own sensors, AI and weapons without outside approval. New Delhi: The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) has introduced a new level of capability for the Indian Air Force (IAF)
11 hours ago
Actor Vicky Kaushal has finally reacted to Dhurandhar: The Revenge, praising director Aditya Dhar and the team behind the film. Taking to Instagram, Vicky wrote, “I’m so shook, so proud and in absolute awe of the craft, hard work and sincerety with which you have made this film
11 hours ago
Celebrate April Fool’s Day 2026 with over 50 easy, simple, and funny pranks for friends, family, home, school, and office. Discover harmless ideas that guarantee laughs and fun for everyone! April Fool’s Day is just around the corner! On April 1, 2026
11 hours ago
'Ranbir Kapoor reminded of Arun Govil': Fan praises actor's Lord Rama turn in Ramayana, gifts Ram Mandir-inspired vestThe first look of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana was unveiled to a select audience in Los Angeles a few days ago. Apr 1, 2026
11 hours ago
Vande Bharat passenger claims food gave her allergy, IRCTC says ‘lunch was satisfactory’A Vande Bharat passenger claimed that eating the food served on the train gave her a severe allergic reaction, while her two-year-old son developed diarrhoea Updated on: Apr 01
11 hours ago
New Delhi, Apr 1 (PTI) Aviation stocks were in high demand in morning trade on Wednesday, with InterGlobe Aviation climbing over 9 per cent, despite jet fuel price hike. InterGlobe Aviation, the parent firm of IndiGo, after starting the trade on a positive note further jumped 9.41 per cent to Rs 4
11 hours ago
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer has been fined ₹12 lakh. His team maintained a slow over-rate during their IPL 2026 match against Gujarat Titans. This was Punjab Kings' first offence this season. On the field, Punjab Kings secured a hard-fought win over Gujarat Titans
11 hours ago
The pricing of LPG is determined based on fluctuations in international crude oil prices and the exchange rate of the Indian rupee against the US dollar. Chennai: A sharp increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices has come into effect in Chennai from April 1
11 hours ago
Prevention of Blindness Week is a time to raise awareness about the leading causes of blindness and how we can prevent vision loss. Blindness is a global health issue, and millions of people suffer from visual impairments that can drastically affect their quality of life
11 hours ago
