After a successful run in UAE, Comedy Mixtape, a comedy festival is all set to take place in Mumbai at Jio Convention Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex on May 30 and 31 later this month. Produced by EVA Live, in collaboration with Midas Events and DXB Live, the festival boasts of an impressive and eclectic lineup, showcasing some of India's most comedic voices across two days. Aakash Gupta will kick things off with his relatable observational humour, followed by Rahul Subramanian's intellectual wit and Ravi Gupta's spontaneous improvisations. Gaurav Kapoor's charming observational style, Urooj Ashfaq's contemporary takes, and the unique humor of Mohd. Suhel and Saurabh Pandey aim to end the first day on a high. Day 2 will see the likes of Harsh Gujral's uproarious storytelling, while Biswa Kalyan Rath's quirky observations and Gurleen Pannu's relatable modern comedy will add to the variety. Kaushtubh Aggarwal's dark humour, Ashish Solanki and Onkar Yadav's unique voices, Rohan Gujral's storytelling, and Punit Pania's satirical wit will complete the festival. All those who love comedy or are looking to do something fun can be book their tickets on District By Zomato with prices Rs 1,499 onwards.
02 May,2025 12:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentLive Your City is set to host its first ever 'Candlelight: Night of Ghazals' in Delhi this May to introduce music lovers in the capital city to a familiar form of music but in a completely different setting. The performance will merge centuries of poetic tradition with a uniquely captivating presentation. Set to take place on May 10, the esteemed Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts will be transformed into an intimate performance space bathed in the warm glow of thousands of flickering candles for a journey through the timeless art of ghazals. At a time when there are different kinds of music experiences in different cities in India, this performs offers a rare opportunity for people to immerse themselves in an evening of poetic expression and melodic expertise in the heart of New Delhi in a setting that aims to change the way they would perceive the music that they have been listening to for a long time. Produced by Live Your City, a division of Fever Labs Inc., the performance is one of many that Candlelight has been hosting in India with the aim to democratise classical music by hosting the unique evenings in venues that showcase each city's cultural heritage. The series collaborates with local artists to offer diverse musical programmes, including tributes to Indian movie soundtracks, reimagined popular music, contemporary tributes to international artists, and timeless classical compositions, and this is just a reminder of the city's rich musical heritage. Details:What: Candlelight New Delhi: Night of GhazalsWhere: Shri Ram Centre for Performing ArtsWhen: May 10Time: 6 pm and 8 pmDuration: 60 minutesMusicians: To be revealed - Indian performerPrice: From Rs 1,199 onwards per person
02 May,2025 12:02 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt the ongoing WAVES 2025 summit in Mumbai, there are a lot of interesting sessions that are underway. While they focus on a variety of topics including arts and culture, it will also play host to a compelling panel discussion on ‘Leadership in Gaming and Esports: Risk, Resilience, and Reinvention’. As India’s esports industry matures, its growth has been driven by bold decisions, strategic adaptability, and relentless vision. This session will explore the challenges and choices that shaped the ecosystem, from regulatory uncertainties and shifting platforms to public perception and personal risk. The panel will comprise three of industry leaders as they share their experiences and insights:Akshat Rathee, Co-founder & Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming Animesh ‘Thug’ Agarwal, Co-founder & CEO, S8UL Nishant Patel, SVP, NODWIN Gaming MD’s Office Initiatives, Co-founder, AFK Gaming This conversation offers a rare yet big window into the leadership journeys powering India’s esports, gaming, and creator economy revolution, essential for anyone invested in the future of gaming and digital entertainment.
01 May,2025 10:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a colossal move to empower the creative and digital workforce of the country, the Government of India has launched the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) at the ongoing edition of the WAVES in Mumbai. This marks a major leap for India’s creative and digital media industries, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting announced the launch. The institute, set to become a national hub for the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) sector, has already commenced work. Several tech giants like NVIDIA, Google, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Star India and Adobe have aligned with IICT for collaborative efforts towards its courses. The IICT is being established by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in strategic collaboration with FICCI and CII, as a National Centre of Excellence on the lines of prestigious IIT and IIM. The first phase of IICT is located at the NFDC Building, Pedder Road, Mumbai, and features state-of-the-art facilities including Gaming Labs, Animation Labs, Edit and Sound Suites, Virtual Production Setups, Immersive Studios, a Preview Theatre, and multiple smart classrooms. Ashwini Vaishnaw also revealed that Phase 2 will see the development of a dedicated 10-acre campus at Film City, Goregaon, further expanding the capabilities and reach of the institute. In the coming years, the government plans to roll out regional centres across India to decentralize access and foster creative ecosystems nationwide. The institute aims to focus on training, incubation, innovation, R&D, and policy development, and is poised to create innumerable opportunities for young creators, technologists, and entrepreneurs in India. This landmark initiative signals the government’s firm commitment to scaling India’s soft power and creative economy on the global stage. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
01 May,2025 02:30 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSHealth and wellness has become a top priority for a majority of workers in India, planning to change jobs, according to a report on Wednesday. The report by Aon, a global professional services firm, showed that 82 per cent of employees in India are seeking new employment in the next 12 months. The top five valued benefits for the Indian workforce are work-life balance programmes; medical coverage; career development; paid time off; and retirement savings. Medical coverage was one of the highest-valued benefits across all generations among those surveyed in India, with Gen X and Gen Y rating it higher than Gen Z. Gen Z rated work-life balance as the top-valued benefit. In addition, 76 per cent of those surveyed said they would be willing to sacrifice existing benefits for a better choice of benefits. This highlights the necessity for businesses in India to align their total rewards and benefits strategies with the changing expectations of their workforce. “Until recently, very few companies considered how benefits, wellness and healthcare programmes could shape their employer brand and employee value proposition. Post-Covid, we are seeing changes as employees increasingly value these programmes, and companies are more actively branding and communicating their availability to current and future employees,” said Nitin Sethi, head of Talent Solutions for India, at Aon. “A multigenerational workforce is accelerating this change, while advanced technology is making it easier to implement these programmes.In the next decade, companies that excel in benefits, health and wellness will have a significant opportunity to position themselves as best-in-class employers,” he added. The report is based on a global study of more than 9,000 employees across 23 geographies, including the US, UK, China, India and Australia. It found that better than average pay (46 per cent); environmentally and socially responsible (24 per cent); support for wellbeing (22 per cent); fun place to work (21 per cent); and strong values (21 per cent) were the top five most influential characteristics to attract employees in the country. “Employees are increasingly aware of the advantages of medical and life benefits,” said Ashley Dsilva, head of Health and Wealth Solutions and director and principal officer for India at Aon. “The importance of retirement and financial planning among the young workforce is surprising," Dsilva added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
01 May,2025 01:55 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSAs the summer sun radiates the summer spirit, there’s no better time to cool off, chill out and dive into days filled with laughter, thrills and non-stop fun. Whether you're looking for a day filled with action-packed rides, water-filled wonder or creative, hands-on fun for the kids, Mumbai’s top spots have it all. These destinations promise a chance to create memories that will last long after the holidays end. ImagicaaDive into a world of excitement and adventure at Imagicaa Water Park, where every splash creates unforgettable memories. Feel the adrenaline rush as you experience unique thrills enjoying rides like Loopy Woopy and Swirl Whirl, India's most exhilarating water slides. Whether you're riding the waves in the Wave Pool or racing down thrilling slides, there's endless fun for everyone. Step into a world where fantasy becomes reality at Imagicaa Theme Park, where every corner offers new experiences andadventure. With 24 indoor and outdoor rides, there's something for everyone, so gather your courage and get ready to experience the magic, where every moment is filled with excitement and wonder. Where: Khopoli, Mumbai Water KingdomGet ready to be drenched in fun at Water Kingdom, Asia’s largest water park. From high-energy slides like Adventure Amazonia, to the enormous Wave Pool, Water Kingdom offers the perfect mix of thrill and relaxation. With attractions for every age and thrill level, it’s the ideal summer escape for the whole family. Where: Borivali, MumbaiTikuji Ni Wadi Water and Amusement ParkEscape the hustle and bustle of the city and step into a world of pure excitement at Tikuji Ni Wadi. A favourite for decades, this park combines nature, adventure and entertainment into one family-friendly destination. Enjoy heart-racing rides, a vibrant water park, delicious local cuisine and scenic green zones perfect for family picnics. Whether you’re sliding down a water chute or chilling under a shady tree, Tikuji Ni Wadi offers a summer day well spent. Where: ThaneSnow Kingdom MumbaiTired of the blazing sun? Cool yourself off at Snow Kingdom, Mumbai’s largest indoor snow theme park! With real snow and icy temperatures, it's the perfect escape from the summer sun. Whether it’s your first time seeing snow or your hundredth, this winter wonderland offers a cool, refreshing twist on your summer outing. Where: GhatkoparMumbai Filmcity Tour with Bollywood ParkEnjoy the dazzling world of cinema with a visit to Mumbai Filmcity Tours with Bollywood Park. This one-of-a-kind theme park brings the magic of Indian movies to life with exciting rides, immersive sets and live entertainment inspired by your favourite blockbusters. Families can explore recreated film sets and enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek into Bollywood’s glittering world. Where: GoregaonMuseum of Solutions (MuSo)Say hello to Mumbai’s most exciting new destination for young minds—MuSo, a state-of-the-art interactive children’s museum designed to educate, entertain and empower. Let your kids engage in hands-on learning experiences around science, creativity, innovation and problem-solving. It’s a place where curiosity runs wild, imagination takes flight and every visit feels like a new adventure in big ideas and discovery. Where: Museum of SolutionsKidZania MumbaiUnleash your child's imagination at KidZania, where they can explore real-world professions through hands-on activities and immersive simulations. This indoor theme park recreates a lively cityscape just for kids, complete with buildings, streets and recognisable establishments. From aspiring doctors to budding chefs, KidZania offers endless possibilities for learning and fun, empowering and inspiring young minds with every experience. Where: KidZaniaFunky Monkeys Play CentreFunky Monkeys is the ultimate indoor playground for toddlers and young kids. Packed with vibrant slides, ball pits, tunnels and climbing frames, it’s designed to keep kids active, social and entertained in a safe, air-conditioned environment. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a summer weekday break, it’s a delightful way to keep the giggles going. Where: Lower ParelPlayseumPlayseum blends the magic of play with the power of learning through 14 unique interactive exhibits and over 50 imaginative activities. Whether kids choose to be shopkeepers, doctors, builders, or adventurers, they all have the chance to take control of their own worlds.. It’s the perfect balance of creativity, exploration and discovery—all under one roof. Where: Playseum
01 May,2025 12:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe summer heat is here but so is the time to enjoy a variety of summer workshops and activities that are being held around Mumbai during this time of the year. With May almost here, there are quite a few activities to explore, and here's a list to get you started: At Prithvi Theatre in JuhuOn The Yellow Brick RoadHop on to an exciting journey and discover one of the most interesting landscapes ever: You! Writing, art, drama, music, movement will help you map the route to explore and express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings. You and your fellow travellers will experience theatre games, writing and art projects, and so much more along the way. While you imagine, create, and perform together, you will develop skills to communicate, express, collaborate, share. You will practice being mindful, present, kind - not just to others, but yourself, as well. Date: Sunday, May 4 to Saturday, May 10Time: 4:30pm to 6:30pmConductor: Shivani Vakil & Yashasvi Vachhani (The Broadband Theatre Company)Age group: 10-12 yearsLanguage: EnglishTotal days: 7 Expressive edge: Unleashing potential through creative artsThe series is designed to offer the participant a unique engagement each day that includes movement, music, art, storytelling, drama; a holistic experience that nurtures their creativity, individuality and personality. The sessions will be designed by Kamalika Guha Thakurta, who having explored the performing arts across multiple disciplines, now works to use the same tools for personal transformations and growth. Date: Sunday, May 11 to Saturday, May 17 Time: 4:30 pm to 6:30 pmConductor: Kamalika Guha Thakurta / ArtscapeAge group: 10-16 yearsLanguage: English and HindiTotal days: 7 Musical theatre and expressive danceDive into the world of musical theatre and expressive dance. Through imaginative exercises and engaging lessons, participants will explore theatrical elements & learn original movement choreography. Each class encourages creativity and self-confidence, allowing students to explore emotional expressions and develop movement techniques while building teamwork and performance skills. Culminating in an informal showcase, this class combines the magic of musical theatre with the freedom of expressive dance. Date: Sunday, May 18 to Saturday, May 24Time: 9:30am to 11am Venue: Prithvi TheatreConductor: Sasha & Sumeet Nagdev with SNDA Artists Language: English Age group: 9-12 years Total days: 7 Musical theatre and jazz Swish, shuffle, hop, sing, express, emote and get every musical note. In this workshop teens learn to use their expressive energy to create a musical theatre piece and get their Broadway act together. Musical theatre is a genre of theatre where music plays a major role in moving the story forward. The workshop will combine songs, spoken dialogues and dance and also encourage the participants to find their own musical expressionDate: Sunday, May 18 to Saturday, May 24Time: 11:30 am to 1 pm Conductor: Sasha & Sumeet Nagdev with SNDA ArtistsAge group: 13-16 yearsLanguage: EnglishTotal days: 7 Be your story - Inside out Listen to yourself, connect the feelings with words. Use the power of observation. find a story from your routine, play out your stories inside out. Make them dramatic or slow down the pace. Improvise. Make any story interesting however dull by staying present in the moment and making it come alive. Become a part of your friend’s stories, listen powerfully before you respond and react. Help your friends understand their stories, set up, prop up and play with them. Date: Sunday, May 18 to Saturday, May 24Time: 2 pm to 4 pmConductor: Divya JagdaleAge group: 9 - 13 yearsLanguage: English and HindiTotal days: 7 At NCPA in Nariman PointThis summer, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) is inviting young dreamers, performers, and creators to step into a world where creativity knows no bounds. The much-awaited Summer Fiesta 2025 is back.Curated especially for children between 4 and 16 years, the six-week celebration offers a vibrant mix of performance-based workshops that promise to spark curiosity, build confidence, and awaken the joy of expression. Whether it’s commanding the stage through drama and debate, finding rhythm in musical theatre and global dance, or exploring the power of digital storytelling, every child will find a space to grow, explore, and shine.With each new week comes a fresh wave of energy: acclaimed facilitators like Anuvab Pal, Rima Medhi, Gurleen Judge, Amey Mehta, and Shantanu Joshi, among others, lead immersive workshops in comedy, acting, movement, rap, news anchoring, puppetry, storytelling, and beyond. These sessions aim to be more than just learning opportunities—they’re carefully crafted experiences that allow children to step out of their comfort zones, make new friends, and fall in love with the arts.Workshops are held in person on the campus in Mumbai, while letting children express themselves freely and fearlessly. From the youngest first-time performer to the teenager ready to take the stage with flair, the Summer Fiesta aims to cater to all levels of experience and interest. Most workshops culminate in joyful showcases, giving families a chance to witness their children’s growth and creative breakthroughs firsthand. In a world increasingly dominated by screens.Registrations are now open, and seats are limited.Date: April 30 – June 8 Age group: For children aged 4 to 16 years
01 May,2025 12:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai Star, the newest offering from Aadyam Theatre, is a bold and immersive Dance Musical that explores the exhilarating highs and crushing lows of chasing stardom in the city of dreams. Helmed by Director Nadir Khan with Choreography by Avantika Bahl and Original Music by Composer Dhruv Ghanekar, this original production brings together powerful movement, original music, and a strong theatrical core, creating a genre-defying stage experience. Originally produced as a project by the Min-On Concert Association, Tokyo, Japan, Mumbai Star will open with two shows in Mumbai on 24 and 25 May at St. Andrew’s Auditorium, followed by performances in Delhi on 14th and 15th June 2025 at Kamani Auditorium. Set against the soaring skyline and gritty undercurrent of Mumbai, Mumbai Star follows Dev, a young man from a coastal village in Maharashtra who finally musters up the courage to take the leap and follow his dreams of becoming a star. With nothing but raw talent and a pocketful of cash, he travels to Mumbai to join the hundreds of hopefuls, hoping to be crowned the winner of the show - Mumbai Star. As the city tests him, Dev faces not only fierce competition but inner reckonings—unattainable love, a guiding mentor, and the steep cost of fame. Mumbai Star is a celebration of ambition, desire, heartbreak, and the power of having a mentor. It is a dance musical powered by original compositions, electrifying choreography, and a theatrical narrative that elevates it beyond a traditional dance show. Director Nadir Khan returns to the Aadyam stage after the success of Sing India Sing and A Few Good Men, while also serving as Co-Programming Consultant with Shernaz Patel for Aadyam’s seventh season. Originally conceived by Devika Shahani, the show has been reimagined by writers Akarsh Khurana and Arghya Lahiri, promising a vivid and deeply human journey told through movement, music, and spectacle. The show's narration is led by celebrated actors Rajit Kapur and Srishti Shrivastava, who frame the story and characters with poignancy and wit, offering a unique lens into Dev’s world. The rest of the cast comprises a high-energy ensemble of exceptional dancers and performers: Abhishek Choksi, Avenav Mukherjee, Arushi Nigam, Eden Pereira, Jayesh Sarange, Jimit Thaker, Melitta Dsouza, Navin Kelamane, Nikhil Thamke, Paridhi Somani Gandhi, Sonakshi Amitabh, Sruthi Vasudevan, Surabhi Andrade, Veronica Jose, and Vinay Bankar. The show’s sonic identity is crafted by music composer Dhruv Ghanekar with lyrics by Ishitta Arun, with vocals on the studio album from artists including Sunidhi Chauhan, Nakash Aziz, Kunal Ganjawala, Ravi Chary, Naveen Kumar, Stony Psyko, Yatharth, and Riya Duggal. At the choreographic helm is Avantika Bahl, with Surabhi Andrade as Associate Choreographer. Vivaran Dhasmana choreographs the hip-hop sets, Krutika Mehta brings the Bollywood flavour, and Vidushi Uma Dogra, a Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee, curates the Kathak pieces—together celebrating Indian and Western dance styles by weaving them into a seamless narrative. On envisioning the story, Devika Shahani shared, “Mumbai Star is very close to my heart. It is a universal story about one of the most important relationships of our lives—the guru and shishya. The seed of this subject germinated from my determination to present the dynamic between mentor and disciple through music and dance. Aadyam is taking a new and bold step in this different storytelling form. I am grateful to be able to tell this story, my third production with Aadyam, and an ode to my mentor on this beautiful stage.” Co-programming consultant for Aadyam Theatre - Season 7, Nadir Khan added, “The recognition and inclusion of dance as a vital member of the Performing Arts is a wonderful addition to the Aadyam umbrella. The Dance Musical, Mumbai Star celebrates dance - both modern and traditional - and dancers themselves, as individuals and a collective. All while rooting itself in a compelling theatrical narrative that weaves different styles of storytelling together - music, movement and theatre. We are very hopeful that with this small step, the dance industry will have one more avenue that will allow it to continue to innovate, grow and contribute to the rich and diverse landscape of the Performing Arts we love so much.” Where: St. Andrew’s Auditorium, Bandra WestWhen: May 24 and May 25
30 April,2025 11:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian singer Badshah has released a new song, 'Galiyon Ke Ghalib', along with a video, from his profoundly intimate and sonically expansive five-track EP, 'Fitoor'. The latest release is an infectious anthem characterised by incisive lyrical storytelling that has been coupled with his dance skills for the first time in the song's catchy music video, showcasing his signature style. 'Galiyon Ke Ghalib' aims to be a dance track, that also showcases Badshah's dynamic solo dance debut. Badshah shares, "'Fitoor' represents a pivotal moment in my artistic journey, a profound exploration of self and sound where I've shed the constraints of expectation to embrace creative autonomy. ‘Galiyon Ke Ghalib' is a testament to this metamorphosis, a track that embodies the raw experimental energy I've always strived for, fueled by a primal love for hip-hop and the kaleidoscopic culture that has shaped and defined my unique creative expression. It's an unapologetic expression of my artistry, and I hope will resonate with listeners on a visceral level. This is Badshah, unfiltered and unbound." 'Fitoor,' meaning passion or obsession, aims to transcend the typical EP format and at the same time elevate desi hip-hop onto the global stage. The EP's narrative tapestry begins with ‘Dear Aditya', a profoundly poignant overture that establishes the deeply personal themes explored throughout the six tracks. This raw and emotional track unfolds as an intimate journet into Badshah's younger self, Aditya Prateek Sisodia, offering an unvarnished glimpse into his formative years and the trials that shaped him including grappling with ambition, resilience, and the paradoxes inherent in artistic greatness, enhanced by a music video. In stark contrast, ‘Blessed’ emerges as a vibrant tune leading to personal triumph. Introspective reflection meets infectious rhythms that aim to showcase Badshah acknowledging his rise in the music industry, complemented by visuals filmed amidst Nepal's serene landscapes. ‘Velvet Flow’ boldly departs from the emotionally charged tones of its predecessors, asserting itself as a seductive yet authentic declaration of hip-hop pride blending Badshah's distinctive rap with the alluring undertones of contemporary R&B, it reveals the raw essence of the genre. Replete with unapologetically bold lyrics, ‘Velvet Flow’ dives into themes of dominance and unwavering self-assurance, amplified by a music video touching upon success and the unapologetic enjoyment of life lived to the fullest. With 'Jordan' yet to release, ‘Fitoor’ is Badshah unleashed—unfiltered, uninhibited, and unapologetically authentic.
30 April,2025 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian vocalist duo Sachet-Parampara willl embark on an India tour this May titled ‘Raanjhan India Tour,’ following the release of their latest track, 'Raanjhan' The extensive musical tour, produced and presented by Team Innovation, promises to immerse audiences with their chart-topping hits that they have showcased over the years. Sachet and Parampara Tandon, known for their music that reflects contemporary Bollywood romance and more, have cultivated a devoted following through their distinctive fusion of Indian music. Their compelling stage presence will see them travel across 10 Indian cities on the Raanjhan India Tour, taking its name from their deeply cherished and chart-topping romantic ballad from 'Do Patti', is envisioned as both an intimate and expansive exploration of Sachet Parampara's musical universe. Attendees can anticipate a carefully curated setlist weaving together their high-energy film anthems with deeply moving ballads such as 'Raanjhan Do Patti', 'Mahiya Do Patti', 'Bekhayali', 'Mere Mehboob', 'Maiyya Mainu', 'Malang Sajna', 'Mere Sohneya', S'hiv Tandav', 'Ram Siya Ram', 'Muqabla', 'Humraah', 'Pal Pal Dil Ke Pas' among others. The initial leg of this nationwide tour, spanning across two months, will commence with Mumbai in May 2025, followed by a series of captivating performances across Pune on May 31, Surat on June 1, Jaipur on June 7, Hyderabad on June 14, Ahmedabad on June 29, Lucknow on July 5, New Delhi on July 6, Goa on July 18, and culminate in Bengaluru on July 19. Sachet states, "Raanjhan is more than just a tour for us; it's a deeply personal and incredibly exciting opportunity to connect directly with our fans across India and share the music that defines our artistic journey." Parampara adds, "We aim to pour soulful music into every heart that craves for inner light and deep music. We've meticulously curated a larger-than-life show that we believe will be a vibrant tapestry of emotions and music." Attendees can visit bookmyshow.com for more details and tickets.
30 April,2025 06:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDifferent parts of India observed the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya 2025 with devotional fervour. This year, the annual spring festival followed by Jains and Hindus is being celebrated on April 30. In Ayodhya and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, thousands of devotees visited temples and ghats to participate in traditional rituals, seeking blessings, prosperity, and peace. According to IANS, the head priest of Ayodhya’s Hanuman Garhi Temple performed sacred rituals, including a milk abhishek and chunri offering to the holy Saryu River, in the presence of thousands of Naga Sadhus who took a ceremonial dip. Marking a historic step, a royal procession of 1000 Naga Sadhus proceeded from Hanuman Garhi towards the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple for the first time in 300 years. The chief priest of Hanuman Garhi, 70-year-old Mahant Prem Das, stepped outside the temple premises for the first time, barring a trip to the hospital, the report added. The atmosphere was equally devotional In Varanasi. Special rituals were performed at the revered Kashi Vishwanath Dham. Devotees also thronged Dashashwamedh Ghat, taking holy dip in the Ganga, offering prayers and performing acts of charity. People were seen donating essentials like food and clothes. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: On Akshaya Tritiya, a grand adornment of Lord Vishnu in his Badrinarayan form was done at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham. The temple trust installed a Kunwara (Shower) for continuous Jalabhishek, symbolizing purity, coolness, and spiritual practice during… pic.twitter.com/JWgS59GOmM — IANS (@ians_india) April 30, 2025 A devotee at the ghat told IANS, “Today is Akshaya Tritiya, which is considered a day for a grand bath, known as Maha snan. People in Varanasi believe that on this day, performing good deeds and taking a holy bath brings peace to the souls of your ancestors and brings prosperity and happiness to your home.” The religious fervour also gripped Vrindavan on Akshaya Tritiya as thousands assembled for the rare annual 'Charan Darshan' of Lord Banke Bihari. According to ANI, the temple doors opened at 6 am Instead of the usual 12 pm, and special arrangements were made for security and crowd management. About Akshaya Tritiya Akshaya Tritiya, also referred to as Akha Teej, is a festival believed to be auspicious for new beginnings. It falls on the third day (Tritiya) of the bright fortnight of the Vaishakha month, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Over the years, the festival has become deeply connected with gold purchases. It’s believed that buying gold on this day invites long-lasting prosperity into the home. On the day of the festival, people also donate food, clothes, etc., and pray for the well-being of their loved ones. (With inputs from IANS and ANI)
30 April,2025 04:01 PM IST | Ayodhya | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
