IBTimes India : Top News

MEA Secy meets Indian diaspora in NY: NRI property disputes, consular issues discussed

Kunal Gupta — Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:55 +0530

Indian-American community leaders urge faster resolution of diaspora concerns, including consular services, alleged misuse of legal provisions and emergency assistance

Indian-American diaspora leader Prem Bhandari has urged India's Ministry of External Affairs to address the illegal grabbing of non-resident Indian (NRI) properties, passport service issues and alleged misuse of legal provisions against overseas Indians during a meeting with MEA Secretary Sripriya Ranganathan in New York.

Bhandari, chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, raised the concerns during a detailed meeting with Ranganathan, Secretary (CPV & OIA) at the Ministry of External Affairs, as part of her outreach to the Indian diaspora in the United States. The meeting also included Ankur Vaidya, chairman of FIA (NY-NJ-CT-NE); Ajay Patel, president of BRUHUD New York Seniors; and Alok Kumar, trustee of FIA. India's Consul General in New York, Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, was also present.

Bhandari called for faster mechanisms to resolve NRI property disputes, saying overseas Indians can struggle to protect their land and property in India when they are unable to remain in the country to pursue lengthy legal proceedings. He proposed fast-track mechanisms or courts for such disputes, greater use of video conferencing for court and administrative hearings, and a national-level coordination system to assist NRIs facing property-related problems.

He also raised concerns about false FIRs and the alleged misuse of legal provisions against NRIs, alongside the need for round-the-clock emergency consular assistance for Indians in distress abroad.

Prem Bhandari Praises MEA Secretary's Diaspora Outreach

Bhandari praised Ranganathan's decision to meet diaspora representatives directly, describing the initiative as unusual in his nearly four decades in the United States.

"I have been in the United States for nearly four decades, and this is the first time I have seen a Secretary (CPV & OIA) undertake such an extensive outreach in the United States to personally understand the problems and concerns of the Indian diaspora. We deeply appreciate her patience, accessibility and willingness to listen," Bhandari said.

The discussions also covered passport renewal and re-issue procedures, improvements to VFS and consular services, and action against unauthorised agents and middlemen accused of exploiting applicants.

Ranganathan's US visit includes New York, Texas, San Francisco and Seattle, where she is engaging with diaspora leaders, community organisations, professionals and other stakeholders. The outreach is intended to gather feedback on challenges facing overseas Indians and suggestions for the forthcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD).

Ankur Vaidya Offers Suggestions for Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

Ankur Vaidya, chairman of FIA (NY-NJ-CT-NE), shared recommendations for the forthcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, drawing on his experience attending 16 of the convention's 18 editions.

He offered suggestions on strengthening diaspora participation and making the event more meaningful and successful. The press note did not detail the specific proposals he put forward.

The meeting also highlighted the role of Indian-American community organisations in supporting people in need and maintaining links with India through cultural, educational, business, technological and humanitarian initiatives.

Recent government initiatives, including e-OCI, chip-enabled passports and Fast Track Immigration, were also discussed as efforts to make services for overseas Indians more technology-enabled and convenient.

The community leaders expressed hope that continued engagement between the Ministry of External Affairs and Indian diaspora organisations across the United States would help address practical concerns and strengthen ties between India and its overseas community.

Kieron Pollard warns Mumbai Indians players against selfish play, wants 'blue flags' flying at Wankhede

Abhishek Trivedi — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 23:04:34 +0530

Newly appointed Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Kieron Pollard has urged players to put the team above individual interests as the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions look to rebuild their identity ahead of the 2027 season. Pollard also expressed his desire to see Mumbai Indians fans filling the Wankhede Stadium in their traditional blue colours rather than the yellow and red associated with rival teams. Pollard, who previously served as MI's batting coach, has taken over from Mahela Jayawardene, whose departure from the franchise was announced last week. The former West Indies all-rounder acknowledged that Mumbai Indians had not lived up to fans' expectations in recent seasons and said the first step towards improvement was recognising the team's shortcomings.

'You want to see that blue flag flying': Pollard

Speaking about his priorities as head coach, Pollard said he wanted to restore the team's fighting spirit and reconnect with its loyal supporters at the Wankhede Stadium.

"When you walk into Wankhede Stadium, you're not seeing the yellows and the reds and stuff like that. You want to see that blue flag flying and you want to see that passion and spirit from the fans and that can only come firstly from us," Pollard said in a video shared by the franchise.

He stressed that the responsibility for rebuilding the team's identity begins with the players and their commitment to the franchise. According to Pollard, the team must understand what it represents and play with the same determination that helped Mumbai Indians establish themselves as one of the IPL's most successful sides.

Pollard added that the franchise needed to acknowledge its recent struggles rather than ignore them, while working towards becoming a fearless team once again.

Pollard admits Mumbai Indians have fallen short

The newly appointed head coach admitted that Mumbai Indians had not performed at the level expected by their supporters in recent years. He said accepting the shortcomings was essential before the team could move forward.

"We acknowledge that you are still the most loyal fans to us, the Paltan crew, and hopefully we can continue to show that passion that you have seen over the years, and we can relive some of those memories with some of the new generation cricketers," Pollard said.

Pollard also emphasised the importance of collective responsibility, urging players to prioritise the team's goals over personal achievements. He said the franchise would work towards bringing back the spirit, energy and determination that defined its successful years.

Kieron Pollard's journey with Mumbai Indians

Pollard has been associated with Mumbai Indians since 2010, when he joined the franchise as a player. During his playing career, he became an integral part of the team's success, featuring in all five of its IPL title-winning campaigns in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020.

After retiring from the IPL as a player ahead of the 2023 season, Pollard moved into a coaching role and served as MI's batting coach for the past four seasons. His elevation to head coach marks a new chapter in his long association with the franchise.

Mumbai Indians will now look to Pollard's experience and understanding of the team's culture as they prepare for IPL 2027. His immediate priorities include strengthening team unity, helping players perform with confidence and restoring the connection between the franchise and its supporters.

Over 1 lakh hit Paris streets as France protests intensify; police use tear gas, water cannon

Meera Nair — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 23:04:01 +0530

France has deployed around 70,000 police officers and gendarmes across the country as authorities brace for fresh protests on Saturday, October 24, amid fears of renewed violence following last weekend's unrest. Major museums and cultural venues in Paris have closed, while shopkeepers have boarded up storefronts and strengthened security to prevent possible looting and vandalism. The demonstrations come amid growing public anger over rising living costs, poor school conditions, teacher shortages and deteriorating public services. Authorities are taking extensive precautions to prevent a repeat of the violence witnessed during the previous round of protests.

Louvre, other major museums close

Several prominent cultural institutions in Paris, including the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, the Picasso Museum and the Grand Palais, have closed as a precaution. The Tuileries Gardens and both Paris Opera venues, Palais Garnier and Opéra Bastille, have also shut their doors amid security concerns.

Art Basel Paris, a major contemporary art fair being held at the Grand Palais, cancelled its weekend programme after opening to the public on Friday. More than 20 metro stations were also reported closed as authorities tightened security and restricted movement around sensitive areas of the capital.

Shops boarded up amid fears of looting

Shopkeepers across Paris have spent the week preparing for possible unrest by covering windows with wooden boards, reinforcing entrances and hiring additional security personnel. Several retailers have also removed merchandise from shop floors or decided to remain closed during the demonstrations.

Luxury stores around Place Vendôme, including outlets associated with Louis Vuitton, Dior and Bulgari, have strengthened security arrangements. The preparations follow last weekend's unrest, during which around 3,000 shops and businesses were reportedly damaged or looted across France.

Police deployment increased after last week's violence

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that around 70,000 police officers and gendarmes would be deployed nationwide, approximately 10,000 more than during the October 17 demonstrations. Helicopters, armoured vehicles, water cannons and specialist police units have been mobilised to maintain order and protect public buildings.

The previous demonstrations reportedly drew more than 500,000 people across the country before escalating into incidents involving fires, looting, vandalism and attacks on public buildings. The unrest triggered criticism of the authorities' response, with President Emmanuel Macron acknowledging shortcomings in the preparations for the previous demonstrations.

Protest routes changed, restrictions imposed in several cities

Authorities have altered planned demonstration routes in Paris to reduce the risk of violence in busy commercial districts. A union-organised march has been redirected away from the central Bastille-to-Nation route towards an area in southeastern Paris.

Demonstrations have also been banned or restricted in parts of Lyon, Nice and Montpellier, while marches are expected to take place in Paris and Marseille. The restrictions have drawn criticism from some trade unions, which argue that they limit freedom of expression. In Lyon, police fired tear gas to disperse a group of around 150 people who gathered in an area where demonstrations had been prohibited.

Why are people protesting in France?

The protests initially began last month when high school students demonstrated against staff shortages and poor conditions at schools in the Paris region. The movement subsequently spread to other parts of the country, with workers, students and trade unions joining demonstrations over rising living costs, wages, pensions and economic inequality.

Students have raised concerns about inadequate school facilities, a shortage of teachers and limited access to higher education. Some are also demanding more university places, increased student grants and a freeze on rents in public student housing.

Workers and unions, meanwhile, are seeking higher wages and pensions to help households cope with rising expenses. The demonstrations have evolved into a broader expression of dissatisfaction with public services and the cost of living, putting additional pressure on the French government to restore order while addressing public grievances

Farooq Abdullah vows to intensify fight for Article 370, statehood; questions Centre's promises

Dinesh Manhotra — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 19:59:30 +0530

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah has announced an intensification of the struggle for the restoration of Article 370 and statehood, accusing the Central Government of failing to honour its promises.

Addressing a convention of party workers at the Dak Bungalow in Baramulla district of North Kashmir on Saturday, he said the people of Jammu and Kashmir must fight unitedly to protect their rights and unique identity. He expressed confidence that the region would one day regain its special status.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Abdullah said, "If you have the courage, we will fight them; if you lack the courage, you will perish." He stressed that the fight for people's rights could not be won without unity and setting aside mutual differences.

He alleged that the Central Government had promised to restore statehood after delimitation and Assembly elections but had yet to fulfil that commitment.

NC to continue struggle for restoration of Article 370

The NC president accused the BJP and the Central Government of weakening Jammu and Kashmir's unique identity and asserted that his party would continue its struggle for the restoration of Article 370.

He said that demanding one's rights did not amount to being against the country.

'Why question the patriotism of Kashmiris?'

Dr Abdullah questioned the repeated challenges to the patriotism of Kashmiris, saying, "We belong to Gandhi-Nehru's India, so why question our patriotism?"

Objecting to questions raised about the patriotism of Kashmiris, he said, "We have never said that we are not Indians. We repeatedly say that we belong to Gandhi's India and Nehru's India."

He maintained that when people raise issues concerning their rights, it is wrong to label their demands as anti-national.

Dr Abdullah said the objective of his politics was not to acquire power but to alleviate poverty and address people's problems.

Questioning the power crisis in Jammu and Kashmir, he said that despite electricity being generated in the region, people were not receiving an adequate supply. Referring to his tenure as Chief Minister, he also spoke about reclaiming hydroelectric projects.

Farooq Abdullah accuses PDP of role in abrogation of Article 370

Farooq Abdullah cautioned party workers against changing political allegiances for the sake of power, urging them to remain honest and committed to their principles.

He accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of contributing to the circumstances that led to the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status by forming an alliance with the BJP in 2019.

He also urged young people to understand the region's history, rise above religious and sectarian differences, and remain united.

Jamia Millia Islamia shifts classes online amid row over slogans raised during student protest

Nisha Rao — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 18:09:56 +0530

Jamia Millia Islamia University in Delhi has decided to move classes online amid ongoing student protests and a controversy over slogans allegedly written on campus walls. The decision comes as tensions continue over demands for the restoration of the university's students' union and the announcement of an election schedule for 2026-27.

The university's move follows a row over slogans, including "Free Kashmir" and "Free Sharjeel Imam", reportedly found on campus walls. Messages targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the university's Vice-Chancellor were also reported, triggering criticism and demands for action against those responsible.

Why has Jamia Millia Islamia moved classes online?

The decision to shift classes online comes amid concerns over the campus situation as the student agitation continues. The protests began on October 12, with students demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students' Union (JMISU) and an official notification announcing the schedule for the 2026-27 elections. The university's students' union was dissolved in 2006, and elections have not been held since.

Students have been holding an indefinite hunger strike at Ghalib Lawns on campus, insisting that the university announce an election schedule. The agitation has also included demonstrations and marches by students supporting the demand for the restoration of an elected student body.

The latest developments have heightened tensions on campus, with the university administration facing pressure to address the students' demands while maintaining security and ensuring academic activities continue.

What is the controversy over slogans at Jamia?

The controversy erupted after slogans, including "Free Kashmir" and "Free Sharjeel Imam", were reportedly found written on walls inside the university campus. Other messages targeted the RSS, ABVP and the Vice-Chancellor.

The university administration condemned the graffiti and said it was attempting to identify those responsible. Officials also said the slogans were removed from the walls. The incident prompted objections from student organisations and led to increased security measures on campus. The slogans controversy has added another layer to the ongoing student agitation, although the protesters' central demand remains the restoration of the students' union and the announcement of an election schedule.

What are the students demanding?

The protesting students have called for the immediate announcement of the 2026-27 JMISU election schedule. They have also demanded the withdrawal of disciplinary action initiated against protesting students and the removal of the university's Chief Proctor and Security Advisor.

In response to the agitation, the university constituted a five-member committee to draft a constitution for the students' union. The committee has been asked to examine the circumstances surrounding the union's dissolution, relevant court rulings and the recommendations of the Lyngdoh Committee.

The panel is also expected to consult stakeholders, including students, before submitting a draft constitution by December 20. However, protesters have argued that the process could delay the restoration of the union and have continued to press for an immediate election schedule.

With classes moving online amid the continuing controversy, the focus remains on the university's next steps, the students' demands and efforts to maintain academic continuity during the campus agitation.

Gold rate today, October 24, 2026: Check 22K gold prices at Tanishq, Malabar Gold, Joyalukkas, Kalyan Jewellers

Rohan Kapoor — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 18:05:10 +0530

Gold prices declined marginally on Saturday, October 24, 2026, offering some relief to buyers planning to purchase jewellery during the festive season. The latest rates cover different purities of gold, including 24-carat, 22-carat, 20-carat and 18-carat, along with silver prices published by the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) and leading jewellery brands.

Gold prices can vary across jewellery brands and cities depending on demand, supply, local taxes and making charges. Buyers are advised to check the latest rates with their jeweller before making a purchase.

Gold rate today, October 24, 2026

According to The Economic Times, gold prices saw a marginal decline on Saturday. The rates for different purities are important for buyers as 24-carat gold is generally associated with investment products, while 22-carat gold is commonly used for jewellery. Gold with lower purity, such as 20-carat and 18-carat, is also used in jewellery manufacturing.

The exact prices may differ depending on the jeweller and the city. Buyers should also account for making charges and applicable taxes, which can increase the final bill.

22K gold rates at leading jewellery brands

Leading jewellery retailers, including Tanishq, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Joyalukkas and Kalyan Jewellers, publish their gold rates for customers across several Indian cities.

On October 23, Tanishq listed 22-carat gold at ₹13,100 per gram, while Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Joyalukkas and Kalyan Jewellers listed the metal at ₹13,060 per gram. These rates provide a reference for the previous day, but should not be treated as confirmed October 24 prices.

Customers planning to buy gold jewellery should confirm the latest rate at their preferred showroom, as prices can change daily.

IBJA gold and silver rates

The India Bullion and Jewellers Association publishes indicative rates for different purities of gold and silver. Its published rates provide a benchmark for understanding movements in the precious metals market.

IBJA's indicative rates for October 23 morning were ₹14,145 per gram for fine gold of 999 purity, ₹13,805 for 22-carat gold, ₹12,589 for 20-carat gold and ₹11,457 for 18-carat gold. Silver of 999 purity was listed at ₹1,95,027 per kilogram. These are reference rates from October 23, not confirmed rates for October 24.

What should gold buyers know before purchasing?

Gold prices differ across jewellery retailers, and the final amount depends on more than the daily rate. Buyers should compare the following before purchasing:

Purity: Check whether the jewellery is 22K, 20K or 18K gold.
Making charges: These vary depending on the design and jeweller.
Taxes: Applicable GST and other charges may increase the final price.
Hallmarking: Check the hallmark and purity details before buying.
Daily rates: Confirm the current rate with the jeweller before completing the purchase.

With gold and silver prices fluctuating, checking the latest rates can help buyers compare costs and plan their purchases more effectively.

Pakistan's new Kashmir plot busted; four women among six arrested in Bandipora

Dinesh Manhotra — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 18:04:08 +0530

Pakistan's intelligence agencies and cross-border terrorist handlers have increasingly been using women to allegedly finance terrorism and separatism in Kashmir. The latest alleged conspiracy came to light with the arrest of six members of a suspected terror-financing module in the Bandipora district of North Kashmir. Four of the six accused are women.

The module, which is allegedly linked to the banned separatist organisation Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen is suspected of establishing networks through jailed terrorists and separatists, raising funds from across the border, and spreading terrorist and separatist propaganda in Kashmir. Police are also searching for a cleric and two alleged couriers suspected of being involved in the network.

According to police, the alleged module's leader, Waheed Ahmed Butt, was released from prison approximately two years ago. He is a resident of Handwara in the Kupwara district of North Kashmir. The other accused include Irfan Ahmed Reshi, Mubeena Bano, Khushboo Jan, Mehak Jan and Alia Jan. All six have been arrested.

Waheed Ahmed Butt was arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in 2022.

According to reports, police received intelligence that a new module allegedly supporting terrorist and separatist activities had become active in North Kashmir, with women also suspected of being involved. An investigation was launched, leading to the identification of Waheed Ahmed Butt.

Butt was previously arrested in 2022 in connection with an anti-national rally in Kupwara in a case registered under the UAPA. He was released in 2024.

After his release, police began monitoring his activities and uncovered important clues about the suspected network. Investigators subsequently monitored other individuals allegedly associated with the module, gathered digital and other evidence against them, and arrested the accused.

Accused of working at the behest of a Pakistan-based handler

According to police, Waheed Ahmed Butt allegedly established contact with a Pakistan-based handler identified as Manzoor Ahmad Shah while lodged in Kupwara jail. He also allegedly enlisted the support of another inmate.

After his release, Butt allegedly began propagating terrorist and separatist ideology in North Kashmir at the behest of his Pakistan-based handler.

He allegedly organised secret meetings, mobilised individuals and incited them to participate in terrorist and separatist activities in Kashmir. According to the report, he attended approximately two dozen such meetings.

Money allegedly transferred from across the border into women's bank accounts

According to a police spokesperson, Butt was released from prison on health grounds and allegedly used the opportunity to promote separatist activities. He reportedly brought several women into his network and held frequent meetings with them. Five to six of these meetings were allegedly held at a small hotel on the Bandipora-Baramulla road.

Police are investigating the purpose of these meetings, the individuals who attended them and the extent of the suspected network. The women associated with the module were also allegedly involved in propagating terrorist and separatist ideology in their respective areas.

Butt allegedly channelled funds received from across the border into their bank accounts.

Over the past few years, he is suspected of having received approximately Rs 8 lakh through women associated with the module. Of this amount, approximately Rs 2.26 lakh was allegedly deposited into the Jammu and Kashmir bank account of Mubeena Bano, a resident of Dachigam in the Bandipora district. The remaining amount was allegedly delivered through cash couriers.

A cleric and two alleged couriers from Kupwara are being sought

A portion of the funds was allegedly distributed among the module's associates, while some of the money was reportedly used to pay for Waheed Ahmed Butt's medical treatment.

A police officer involved in the investigation said the suspected network also included a cleric and two alleged couriers from Kupwara district. Police are searching for the three individuals.

The officer expressed confidence that they would also be arrested.

Simultaneous arrest of four women in Bandipora raises concerns.

A senior Jammu and Kashmir Police officer said the alleged involvement of women in terrorist and separatist activities in Kashmir was not a new phenomenon. However, the simultaneous arrest of four women in a single suspected module in Bandipora has raised concerns among security agencies.

According to the officer, while previous investigations had generally identified one or two women in individual modules, the latest case indicates a possible increase in the recruitment of women into local networks by Pakistani intelligence agencies and cross-border terrorist handlers.

The officer suggested that women could be targeted for recruitment because they may attract less suspicion, potentially making it easier for such networks to operate.

Sharad Purnima 2026 on October 25: Check tithi timings and when to keep kheer under moonlight

Meera Nair — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 18:02:52 +0530

Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagari Purnima, Raas Purnima and Kaumudi Purnima, is an important Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day of the Ashvin month. In 2026, Sharad Purnima will be observed on Sunday, October 25. The festival holds special significance for devotees of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Krishna, with prayers, fasting, night-long vigils and the tradition of placing kheer under the moonlight forming an important part of the celebrations.

According to Hindu beliefs, the full moon on Sharad Purnima is associated with prosperity, abundance and spiritual significance. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, seek blessings for happiness and financial well-being, and observe traditional rituals to mark the occasion.

Sharad Purnima 2026: Date and timings

Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Purnima Tithi begins: October 25 at 11:55 AM
Purnima Tithi ends: October 26 at 9:41 AM
Moonrise: Around 5 PM, depending on the city
Kojagara Puja: Traditionally performed during the night, with the auspicious timing depending on the local panchang

Devotees are advised to check their local panchang for city-specific moonrise and puja timings.

Sharad Purnima 2026: Significance

Sharad Purnima is associated with several religious beliefs and legends. According to Hindu tradition, the moon is believed to shine with all sixteen kalas, symbolising completeness and divine radiance.

The festival is also known as Kojagari Purnima because of the belief that Goddess Lakshmi visits the Earth during the night and asks, "Ko jagarti?" meaning "Who is awake?" Devotees traditionally stay awake, worship the goddess and seek her blessings for wealth and prosperity.

In Braj and Vrindavan, Sharad Purnima is associated with Lord Krishna's Maha-Raas, the divine dance performed with Radha and the Gopis. The occasion is celebrated with devotional songs, prayers and special rituals.

Sharad Purnima 2026: Dos and don'ts

Devotees observe several traditional practices on Sharad Purnima to mark the auspicious occasion. Here are some commonly followed dos and don'ts.

Dos to follow on Sharad Purnima

1. Worship Goddess Lakshmi

Devotees offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and seek blessings for prosperity, happiness and abundance. Many households light diyas and decorate their homes as part of the celebrations.

2. Offer prayers to the full moon

Moon worship is an important tradition associated with Sharad Purnima. Devotees offer prayers to Chandra Dev and express gratitude for peace, prosperity and well-being.

3. Prepare kheer and place it under the moonlight

One of the most popular traditions is preparing rice-and-milk kheer and placing it under the moonlight. According to popular belief, the moonlight is associated with divine nectar, and the kheer is later offered as prasad. This is a religious tradition rather than a scientifically established health benefit.

4. Stay awake during the night

Many devotees observe a night vigil, known as jagran, by singing bhajans, reciting prayers and reading sacred texts. The practice is associated with the belief surrounding Goddess Lakshmi's visit on Kojagari Purnima.

5. Donate food and essentials

Offering food, clothes and other essential items to people in need is considered an auspicious act. Charity is traditionally associated with generosity, compassion and the spirit of the festival.

6. Keep your home clean

Devotees traditionally clean and decorate their homes before Lakshmi Puja. Rangoli, flowers and diyas are commonly used to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Don'ts to follow on Sharad Purnima

1. Avoid disrespectful behaviour

Devotees traditionally focus on prayer, gratitude and positive conduct. Avoiding arguments and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere are commonly encouraged.

2. Do not waste food or offerings

Food prepared for the puja should be handled respectfully. Share offerings with family members and others where appropriate, and avoid unnecessary wastage.

3. Do not force yourself to fast

Some devotees observe a fast, while others follow their usual diet. Fasting practices vary by family and region. People who need regular meals or medication should prioritise their health rather than undertake a strict fast.

4. Avoid treating religious beliefs as medical facts

The tradition of placing kheer under moonlight is rooted in religious belief. There is no established scientific evidence that moonlight turns food into nectar or gives it special medicinal properties. Keep food covered and hygienic, especially when leaving it outdoors.

5. Do not ignore local puja timings

Ritual timings may differ by location and panchang calculations. Check the timings applicable to your city before planning Kojagara Puja or other observances.

Why is kheer placed under moonlight on Sharad Purnima?

Placing kheer under the moonlight is one of the best-known customs associated with Sharad Purnima. According to traditional belief, the moon's rays on this night possess special qualities and are associated with amrit, or divine nectar. The kheer is left under the moonlight and consumed as prasad, often the following morning.

The practice is particularly associated with the belief that Sharad Purnima marks a night of spiritual abundance and divine blessings. However, the belief about the moonlight's special properties is religious and cultural, not a scientifically established fact.

How is Sharad Purnima celebrated?

Sharad Purnima is celebrated in different ways across India. In many households, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, prepare kheer, light diyas and remain awake during the night. In the Braj region, including Mathura and Vrindavan, the occasion is closely linked to Lord Krishna's Maha-Raas.

The festival brings together traditions of devotion, gratitude, charity and family gatherings. For devotees, it is an opportunity to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being while observing customs passed down through generations.

'Gained weight when Karan stopped talking to me': Janhvi Kapoor on KWK, reveals she stalks Ravi Kishan

Ruchita — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 18:01:47 +0530

The third episode of Koffee With Karan will feature Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan, along with a surprise appearance by Arjun Kapoor. The promo was dropped on Instagram, with Karan Johar sharing a sneak peek into Varun and Janhvi's candid conversation and Arjun Kapoor spilling the tea on the coffee couch.

In the promo, Varun said that Karan Johar had stopped talking to him and Janhvi Kapoor, prompting the filmmaker to confess, "I was hurt with both of you." Reacting to it, Janhvi said, "I gained weight when we stopped talking."

Varun describes the situation as dramatic, adding that he felt like Amitabh Bachchan's character from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (K3G), bringing a humorous twist to the conversation.

Varun reveals that he would turn to Arjun Kapoor for both marriage and career advice. Janhvi said that she is currently obsessed with Ravi Kishan's Instagram account, saying it is "giving all the time", and confessed that she stalks his profile.

Netizens had mixed reactions to the promo of Janhvi, Varun and Arjun's episode; some said that it will be fun and will heal the trauma of the earlier two episodes. While some said it's cringe.

Meanwhile, Koffee With Karan returned with its ninth and final season on October 14. The opening episode featured Salman Khan, with Karisma Kapoor making a surprise appearance.

The second episode saw Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna share the couch, but their appearance sparked considerable criticism and trolling on social media.

'Bloodless political genocide': Economist, political commentator Parakala Prabhakar to join anti-SIR protest

Aarav Mehta — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 15:42:53 +0530

Economist and political commentator Parakala Prabhakar, husband of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is set to join an anti-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) protest in Delhi, criticising the Election Commission's voter-list revision exercise. Prabhakar has described the process as a "bloodless political genocide of citizenship", arguing that the deletion of eligible voters' names from electoral rolls could deprive them of their voting rights.

The protest, organised by the People Against SIR alliance, is scheduled for October 23 under the banner of the People's March to Restore Democracy. The alliance has demanded that the SIR exercise be scrapped, eligible voters whose names have been deleted be reinstated, and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar resign.

Prabhakar's participation has drawn attention because of his outspoken criticism of the BJP-led Centre, of which his wife is a senior minister. However, he has maintained an independent public voice and has frequently questioned the government's economic policies and political decisions.

Why is Parakala Prabhakar opposing the SIR exercise?

Prabhakar has raised concerns about the possible exclusion of eligible voters during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. He has argued that people whose names are removed from voter lists could lose their right to vote despite continuing to remain citizens of the country.

Describing the exercise as a "bloodless political genocide of citizenship", Prabhakar has warned that it could create two categories of citizens: those who retain their voting rights and those who lose them following the deletion of their names from electoral rolls. These are his criticisms of the process and form part of the wider political debate over voter-list revisions.

The People Against SIR alliance has also called for the restoration of the names of eligible voters removed from the electoral rolls. The organisers have urged political parties, including those in the INDIA bloc, to participate in the protest.

Who else will join the anti-SIR protest?

Several public figures and activists are expected to participate in the march alongside Prabhakar. These include actor-activist Prakash Raj, senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, farmer leader Rakesh Tikait, author Tushar Gandhi, All India Students' Union president Neha Bora and former Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union president Aishe Ghosh. Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, is also expected to participate. The alliance, formed on October 14, brings together organisations representing students, farmers, workers, women, Dalits, Adivasis, minorities and other sections of society. It has called for wider public participation under the slogan, "Har haath mein tiranga, har gali mein Jantar Mantar."

The organisers have positioned the march as a campaign to protect democratic rights and demand greater accountability in the electoral process.

Who is Parakala Prabhakar?

Parakala Prabhakar is an economist, political commentator and author known for his criticism of the Narendra Modi government's economic policies. He is married to Nirmala Sitharaman, who has served as Union Finance Minister since 2019.

Prabhakar studied at Andhra Loyola College in Vijayawada before pursuing higher education at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). He later earned a doctorate from the London School of Economics. His academic background and professional experience have shaped his commentary on India's economy, politics and democratic institutions.

His political journey has included associations with the Congress, the BJP and actor Chiranjeevi's Praja Rajyam Party. He also served as communications adviser to the Andhra Pradesh government from 2014 to 2018.

Prabhakar has frequently questioned the Centre's economic decisions, including demonetisation, and raised concerns about unemployment, inequality and democratic accountability. His views have attracted attention because they differ from those of the BJP-led government in which his wife holds a senior position.

The planned anti-SIR protest comes amid continuing debate over electoral-roll revisions, voter deletions and safeguards for eligible citizens. The alliance is seeking changes to the process and the restoration of voters' names, while the concerns raised by Prabhakar and other critics remain part of the broader political discussion.