Bhubaneswar: The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has proposed restricting the entry of non-Hindus into the revered Badrinath and Kedarnath temples, along with other shrines under its jurisdiction, citing the need to protect religious traditions and sanctity. The proposal was discussed during a meeting of temple authorities held on Sunday. BKTC chairman Hemant Dwivedi said…
Bhubaneswar: A new cultural phenomenon known as “bhajan clubbing” is reshaping how India’s Gen Z engages with spirituality, blending ancient devotional traditions with the energy and aesthetics of modern live music. Across major cities, young people are gathering in packed venues to sing, dance and chant to remixed bhajans and kirtans, set against electronic beats,…
Bhubaneswar: The 11-day Adivasi Mela, one of Odisha’s largest showcases of tribal culture, began in Bhubaneswar on Sunday with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurating the event and urging members of the tribal community to become educated and aware of their constitutional and legal rights. The annual fair highlights the lifestyle, art, craft, cuisine and…
Bhubaneswar: The national recognition accorded to Odia sculptor Upendra Nath Giri for the Vishwarupa statue at Lok Bhavan underscores a broader shift in how regional and traditional artists are being acknowledged within India’s public and institutional spaces. Presidential appreciation and felicitation at Rashtrapati Bhavan elevate the achievement beyond personal acclaim, placing it within the narrative…
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a new rule mandating the use of Odia for all official work carried out by government departments and public offices across the state. The directive covers official files, notices, circulars, letters, and internal communication at the state, district, and local levels. According to the government, the order applies strictly…
Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu has approved the conferment of gallantry and service awards on 70 personnel of the Indian Armed Forces ahead of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, recognising acts of exceptional bravery and distinguished service across the Army, Navy and Air Force. Among the honours, the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, has…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s renowned Buddhist heritage sites—Ratnagiri, Udayagiri and Lalitgiri—collectively known as the Buddhist Triangle, have been included in India’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage inscription. The development marks an important step towards securing global recognition for the ancient archaeological complex. The inclusion acknowledges the region’s historical and spiritual significance as a prominent centre of…
Bhubaneswar: The Union government on Thursday notified 33 questions for the upcoming Houselisting and Housing Census, scheduled to be conducted from April 1 to September 30, 2026. The exercise will form a key preparatory phase of the next national Census and aims to create a comprehensive database on housing conditions, household amenities, and assets across…
Bhubaneswar: India on Thursday observed Parakram Diwas to mark the 129th birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, remembering his pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence and his leadership of the Indian National Army (INA) against British colonial rule. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Netaji, highlighting several initiatives undertaken…
Bhubaneswar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Lucknow on January 24 to attend and address the ‘Uttar Pradesh Day’ celebrations as the chief guest. The event is expected to highlight the state’s cultural heritage, development initiatives, and governance reforms. During the programme, the Home Minister will launch the ‘One District One Cuisine’ scheme, an…
