EXPLAINED: Travel asia | Rare Historical Photos

Bengal CM hints at scrapping VIP gates at Durga Puja pandals after Kolkata stampede

Following a tragic stampede during Durga Puja celebrations, Kolkata Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced reforms for crowd management. The government may ban VIP gates to ensure equal access for all puja revellers. A special investigation team will be formed to examine the incident's circumstances and police actions. Compensation will be…

The Economic Times · 9h ago

Why Did Bali Change His Mind After Rama’s Explanation?

Bali was one of the mightiest warriors in the Ramayana. Yet, in his final moments, he folded his hands before Lord Rama, the very person he had accused of attacking him unfairly. What changed his mind? The answer lies in Rama’s explanation of dharma, Bali’s concern for his son Angada,…

MyLifeXP · 14h ago

Why Did Shandili Take Away Garuda’s Powerful Wings?

Garuda was so powerful that he could challenge the gods and bring Amrita, the divine nectar, from heaven. Yet, according to a traditional story, he once lost his strength and wings after staying at the humble hermitage of a woman named Shandili. What happened that night? The answer reveals a…

MyLifeXP · 15h ago

Why This 3 KM Himalayan Trek Leads to a Mysterious Temple

Hidden among the mountains of Uttarakhand, Kartik Swami Temple is not just a destination for trekkers. It is a sacred place connected to a powerful legend about Lord Kartikeya, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Reaching the temple requires a trek through mountain forests, but the story associated with the shrine…

MyLifeXP · Oct 17

What Hanuman Ji Said First After Finding Goddess Sita

Hanuman Ji crossed the ocean, overcame dangerous obstacles, found Mata Sita in Lanka and even set parts of the city on fire. But what made him truly great was not his extraordinary strength. It was what he chose to say after completing such an incredible mission. When he returned to…

MyLifeXP · Oct 17

'Under attack' from fragrance, Hanoi prunes its famous blossoms

Hanoi is pruning hundreds of its iconic milkwood trees after residents complained the blossoms are causing daily discomfort, breathing issues.

The Economic Times · Oct 16

Why Is This Artwork Essential to Traditional Durga Puja?

During Durga Puja, most people focus on Maa Durga’s beautiful face, her weapons and the moment she defeats Mahishasura. But look just behind the idol, and you may discover another piece of art filled with stories, symbolism and centuries of tradition. Known as Chalchitra (also spelled Chandrachitra in some references),…

MyLifeXP · Oct 16

‘Clean air is not a favour’: Indonesia’s neighbours fed up with acrid haze as Singapore threatens to prosecute

Millions affected by smoke from wildfires as schools close, respiratory illnesses soar and diplomatic tensions rise

The Guardian - UK · Oct 16

Banke Bihari Temple new rules: Why throwing pedas and flowers is banned now

The Banke Bihari Temple management committee in Vrindavan has banned devotees from throwing pedas, flower garlands and tulsi malas at the deity. The decision aims to improve hygiene and prevent sacred offerings from being trampled. The committee has also discussed central AC installation, an inquiry into ceremonial gold and silver…

The Economic Times · Oct 16

Bet Dwarka Corridor: Underwater darshan, 108-foot Krishna statue, how Gujarat plans to transform Krishna's land

Gujarat's proposed Bet Dwarka corridor aims to improve pilgrimage facilities and tourism infrastructure around the island associated with Lord Krishna. The plan includes a heritage street, a proposed 108-foot Krishna statue and underwater viewing experiences linked to Dwarka's submerged past. Building on the Sudarshan Setu connection, the project seeks to…

The Economic Times · Oct 16