#the hindu newspaper today

[gkfinder]

Read and Download The Hindu Editorial 14 June 2024 in detail. Read insightly Today The Hindu Vocabulary today Word PDFs by PendulumEdu.

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[xpertnewsofficial]

Pakistan floods: Muslims found refuge in the temple, Hindu community opened doors in Balochistan #new #latest_news #update #today #Pakistan #temple #hindu #muslim #newspaper #viral #flood

[eretzyisrael]

by Phyllis Chesler

How could so much rabid and vulgar Jew-hatred suddenly erupt everywhere? Did someone flick a switch that unleashed millions of haters programmed to disrupt public meetings, graduation ceremonies, legislative sessions, and singing and athletic contests? To block streets, schools and bridges? To smash windows, deface synagogues and kosher or Israeli restaurants, and publish false narratives about Israel and the Palestinians all over the world?

I’ve been asking myself this question ever since Oct. 7. Today, I may have something of an answer.

This worldwide non-stop attack on the world’s Jews did not happen when the U.N. passed its infamous resolution equating Zionism with racism in the 1970s. It did not occur after Palestinian terrorists bombed synagogues, hijacked planes and murdered Israeli athletes at the Olympics. Nor when Arab countries launched attack after attack on Israel, subjecting it to countless wars.

It did not even happen when Palestinian terrorists blew up Israeli civilians on buses and stabbed, car-rammed and shot Israeli civilians to death on Israeli streets. Nor did it happen after Iranian proxies launched rockets at the Jewish state, sent flotillas of armed assassins in the name of “peace” and declared their intention to exterminate the Jews once and for all.

Despite incredible losses, Israel rose triumphantly each time.

Here’s what’s different now:

First, back then, the well-funded and well-organized media and university assault on Israel had not yet indoctrinated three or four generations of Westerners.

Second, on Oct. 7, perhaps for the first time, Israel looked genuinely vulnerable. This rendered both Israelis and Jews everywhere fair game.

It’s as simple as that.

Once the terrible sight of Israeli blood, of charred and/or raped Israeli corpses, was broadcast the world over, the haters knew it was possible to chase the Jews down, to try to destroy us yet again. Who would protect us? The IDF was under the most profound siege on Israel’s northern and southern borders and in its historical heartland in Judea and Samaria.

Diaspora Jewry was seen as safe because Israel was militarily, economically, culturally, scientifically and technologically strong. Israel led the world in counterterrorism and was the only country in the Middle East that protects all religions, not just Judaism.

Israel’s strength meant that left-wing Diaspora Jews who loudly criticized Israel’s every imperfection and failure, and right-wing Diaspora Jews who kept supporting Israel no matter what, were safe because Israel existed. Israelis who excel at dissenting politics and are geniuses at criticizing their government were also kept relatively safe because Israel was and was seen as strong. Without this, we would all be subject to the historically endless pogroms and persecutions that have characterized Jewish existence in both the Muslim and the Christian world.

Things have changed. Israel looks vulnerable and the Jew-haters have been emboldened as a result.

So, if Diaspora Jews and our Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Muslim friends the world over want to help both the Jews and the West to defeat barbarism, they must strengthen the IDF in every way. These precious young men and women are on the front line fighting for civilization. However imperfect Israeli and American leaders and political systems may be, they are far better than those of Iran, China, Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan and North Korea.

Now is the time to act. I am urging you, imploring you, to do so.

Send money to the IDF and Israel’s ambulance and medical services. Volunteer as physicians and physical therapists, nurses, harvesters, fruit pickers and compassionate caregivers. Stand with pro-Israel demonstrators. Attend your local city council meetings, write articles for and letters to newspapers. Sue schools for harassing and chasing Jewish students away. Work to end the poisoned curriculum that has turned students into Jew-hating zombies.

This work may take decades to complete. Begin it today. And whatever you choose to do, never stop.

The fate of the world is in your hands

[coochiequeens]

This is why we need women to have input in housing development 

This article was originally published in Undark Magazine.

On a humid afternoon in May, a handful of local residents gathered at a one-room home in an unplanned housing settlement in Mumbai. The women greeted one another and then sat down on the small porch and on the tiled floor inside, swapping stories about the day’s events through the doorframe. Their conversation was lighthearted until someone mentioned hydration and the mood changed. “We won’t be consuming any more liquids today,” said 31-year-old Kalawati Yadav. “If we do, we might have the urge to urinate by later in the evening.” By then, the public toilets would be filthy from the day’s use, and without lighting, they would also be dark. “It’s not a safe time to go,” Yadav said.

Daytime is not much better, though, because the facilities are rarely truly clean. According to the women, the public toilets are usually dirty, unlit, and lacking in water. They are also in short supply. Two facilities, each with a dozen toilets—six for women and six for men—service the entire settlement, Subhash Nagar, which covers about one-10th of a square mile and as of 2020 housed more than 9,000 people. The municipal government is supposed to be responsible for sanitation, but there is very little oversight. (City officials did not respond to multiple requests for comment.)

As a result, for residents of Subhash Nagar and for many low-income residents across India, bathroom schedules are often dictated not by biological need but by inadequate toilet infrastructure. Several women told Undark that they routinely hold their urine and avoid drinking liquids in an effort to reduce trips to the facilities. These behaviors lead to stomchaches and constipation, but the women said they don’t have better options. Their neighborhood was unplanned—it started as a collection of tin-plank homes, which were later replaced with concrete structures—so the houses are not connected to septic tanks. There are no private toilets, and the owners cannot afford to regularly use the fee-based facilities in other parts of the city.

This predicament is part of a larger story of India’s efforts to bring affordable and sanitary toilets to its population of 1.4 billion people. Though estimates vary, according to The Hindu, an Indian daily newspaper, nearly half of all Indians practiced open defecation as recently as 2013; people go outside in fields, bodies of water, or other open spaces. Without public sanitation—including septic tanks, water, and cleaning products—pathogens spread readily, causing serious health problems. The United Nations deputy secretary-general has called for the elimination of open defecation, and in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, or Clean India Mission, an effort that led to the construction of about 100 million toilets. Today, according to the World Bank, just 15 percent of the population practices open defecation.

Having new public toilets “is a step forward,” Sarita Vijay Panchang, a public-health researcher who did her 2019 dissertation on India’s urban sanitation, wrote in an email to Undark. But many of India’s public toilets are overcrowded, she noted. This leads to long lines, sewage overflows, and concerns about personal safety—all of which constitute their own set of public-health problems.

Surveys show that the situation is especially acute in urban areas such as Mumbai. Safety concerns deter some women from practicing open defecation as a fallback. (Some reports suggest men are more likely than women to practice open defecation even when public toilets are available.) Physicians and activists say the continued practice of caste- and class-based discriminationcompounds the harms, as some women are forbidden from using the toilets while at work.

“The ceiling plaster has fallen on me once,” said Ambika Kalshetty, the gathering’s 35-year-old host, who works as a housemaid in the nearby high-rise apartments. The men’s toilets were built atop the women’s toilets, she explained, and the men’s “leak on us at times—it’s disgusting.” She said she really doesn’t feel good until she returns home and cleans thoroughly with soap and an antiseptic.

Another woman, Sangeeta Pandey, recalled watching a pregnant woman faint while waiting in a long line for the community toilets. “It was humiliating,” Pandey said, “but also, what could she do?”

Local activists have worked to raise awareness and bring improvements. Still, the women gathered in Kalshetty’s home said that change is slow, and for now, they are on their own to manage a difficult situation.

Several years ago, researchers surveyed more than 600 women across 33 slums in Maharashtra, the Indian state that includes Mumbai. They found that among those without proper toilet access, more than 21 percent reported holding in their urine and more than 26 percent said they modify their meals to avoid using the toilets at night. These findings are supported by Panchang’s research in the region, which also found that women avoid urination and defecation when they perceive their community toilets to be unsafe.

Such behavioral changes can lead to negative health effects, says Suchitra Dalvie, a Mumbai-based gynecologist and women’s-health activist. Frequent urination helps flush any bacteria, thus reducing risk of urinary-tract infections. (The women in Subash Nagar said that they regularly experienced UTIs, some as often as every few months.)

Even the relatively well-off are affected. Dalvie recalls a conversation with the state’s former minister of health, a young woman who often needed to travel for work. The health minister would limit her water intake, knowing that the public toilets she would encounter on the road might not be adequate. This is an example of how women’s problems have been normalized in India, says Dalvie.

Toilet infrastructure is not just an issue of sanitation, says Deepa Pawar, a social activist focusing on gender and youth issues in marginalized communities. “It is a much larger problem that encompasses health, gender, and social-justice issues,” she says.

Pawar’s organization, Anubhuti, started conducting several toilet audits across Mumbai in 2017. Its audit of the K/East Ward found conditions similar to those that Undark reported: damaged toilets, lack of water, and inadequate cleaning services. And though the central government has called for one commode per 30 individuals, the audit found far fewer.

Pawar grew up in Mumbai’s low-income neighborhoods, so the issue is personal. “When you use your toilet at home, there is no struggle involved,” she says. But in using public toilets, one must contend with an array of concerns.

The problems were aggravated during the COVID lockdowns, Pawar says, when many of the city’s free public toilets were closed. “They only kept the pay-and-use toilets functional. From where will the poor get the money to use these toilets if they are not allowed to work?” she asks. The closures particularly affected the nomadic communities that compose nearly 10 percent of India’s population. These are communities that traditionally moved around, and although many have now settled, they are economically weak and face discrimination.

Read: India under coronavirus lockdown.

Women and men in Subhash Nagar were also forbidden from using many toilets during the lockdowns, but they say they used them anyway. And across Mumbai, many men simply defecated outside. Although the city government ordered toilet fees to be waived for everyone, Pawar and residents of Subhash Nagar say that in practice, women were still charged. “Essentially, women were being penalized for their gender while men were being given a free pass,” Pawar says.

As a member of a nomadic tribe, Pawar is intimately familiar with the social dynamics that prevent some women from accessing basic services such as toilets. “During our campaigns, we question local officials about the disparity in access to toilets for members of nomadic tribes like ourselves, and they often respond by asking us why we don’t use the free public toilets in malls instead,” she says.

The reality is that those spaces cater to the middle and upper class, and people of lower socioeconomic status are not welcome there. “Will a female laborer with a bullock cart be allowed to enter a mall? Has our society inspired such courtesies among those who work at and visit these malls to allow nomadic laborers within their complex?” she asks rhetorically.

Mumbai is a large commercial city that relies on the labor of women and of marginalized communities, Dalvie says. Businesses, government, and wealthy residents should therefore “accommodate the conveniences” of everyone.

Going forward, Panchang would like to see India strive to build more in-house toilets that are connected to sewers. Residents will be able to maintain them well, and women will not have to pay such a heavy price for the country’s efforts to eliminate open defecation. “Public toilets,” she wrote in her email, “are not a substitute for household toilets.”

Ruchi Kumar is an Indian journalist currently working in Kabul, Afghanistan. Her writing has appeared in Foreign Policy, The Guardian, and The Washington Post, among other outlets.

[readymatrimony-com]

10 Most Weird Matrimony websites in India - Part 1

India has a whole different prospect for wedding, Matrimony is been one of the important work to be performed by individual Getting married and start your own family is a part of one of 4 ashrams that is been defined in Hindu texts. These 4 ashrams are - Brahmcharya ( The Student phase) - Grahastha Ashram (The family phase ) - Vanprastha Ashram ( the Retirement phase ) - Sanyas Ashram ( The ascetic phase) NO doubt that each phase covers around 25 years and to start phase 2 you need to get married

As per a survey published in BBC , most Indian marriages are arranged , where family member search for a betterhalf based on some criteria , Cast and religion been on top of it . In a 2018 survey of more than 160,000 households, 93% of married Indians said that theirs was an arranged marriage. Just 3% had a "love marriage" and another 2% described theirs as a "love-cum-arranged marriage", which usually indicates that the relationship was set up by the families, and then the couple agreed to get married. Arrange Marriage is not only a part of Indian culture but also a big and thriving business. and this business is not limited to event planning for BIG FAT wallet wedding of India, But expanding its wings in Match making as well IN recent decades Indian Matrimonial market has witness a steep growth in Match Making services specially the Online Match Making services what we call it as Matrimonial websites Bharatmatrimony , Shaadi.com and Jeevansaathi been the major stack holder in this , There are many small players and startup coming up with some unique idea and target particular sector of society

Have a look at some of mot taboo, weird Matrimonial websites

- DisabledMatrimonial.com :- This Matrimonial website is dedicated to provide Match making service to people with a physical disablity. DisabledMatrimonial.com is a matrimony portal catering to the special matrimonial needs of the persons with disabilities across india and other countries. The portal has been designed exclusively for those who are persons with disabilities themselves or are interested to marry with a person with disabilities.

2. https://marryadevotee.com :- It seems like Marry devotee is been funded by ISKCON, or either the founder of website must be a very religious person. MarryADevotee.com has the largest number of Bhaktas & Bhaktins – Krishna devotees from ISKCON – Gaudiya Matha, Vaisnavas & Vaisnavis from all branches of Vaishnavism.

3. faangshaadi.com :- This is one of the most weird name we have ever come across our entire journey of Matrimonial script business . FAANG stands for Facebook , Amazon , Apple , Netflix, Google . This means that only employees of these top tech companies are able to register there and to be a part of this matrimony you should be a employee of these big tech companies it offers Search, sort and filter based on YoE (years of experience), CTC (compensation), stocks vested, LeetCode rank. It seems more like a april fool Joke rather than real Matrimonial website

4. http://youngachieversmatrimony.com/ :- This Matrimony is very much dedicated to Rich and young entrepreneurs , IAS, IPS , top bureaucrats , Graduates from Top Universities like IIM , IIT etc. This Matrimonial came in limelight when it published an advertisement mentioning beautiful girls as a achievement in one of the newspaper Many of the users criticise the act to taking beautiful as a achievement 5. https://www.artoflivingmatrimony.org :- This is another matrimonial website that aim to connect two individual with same spiritual values into a matrimonial knot The Art of Living Matrimony is a platform to bring people with similar life values together. Today, we have thousands of happy marriages and several continue to happen through this platform. We believe in safety and trust and hence the platform provides 100% mobile verified profiles. We understand the needs of today's youngsters and the platform is built to give members complete control through easy-to-use interfaces and features that can help them identify, filter and contact potential life partners. Besides online, we have a strong presence across India via the matrimony workshops held at multiple locations from time to time announced and registered on this website. Our purpose is to build a better, more peaceful,world by enabling happy families with a commitment to share & serve together! The list is still growing as we will be Keep Posting new updates on regular basis .Many players in India are providing Matrimonial script that allows your startups to launch Matrimonials in very budgeted price Read the full article

[duchessofostergotlands]

Weird question: how do you cope with Margaret Thatcher being the first woman becoming prime minister in the UK? Recently Italy has elected a woman as head of the government and she really is bad: in her political agenda there is nothing to help other women, she refuses any connection with her feminine side (I don't mean she doesn't wear pink, I mean she doesn't want people to use the definite article we use for girls in front of her title, she prefers the masculine one as if it goes with the title and not with the person), she talk about parenthood as if it concerns only mothers. She also comes from nothing and she has fought to be where she is today but instead of planning to make it easier for others she brags about how facing struggles builds caractherand proves your worth, which is bs if you ask me. Anyway, everybody in my country is talking about breaking glass and meritocracy and I undestrand their thinking, I can see the logic behind it but I can't just reconcile it with the fact they're trying to make her a symbol of values she recoils from. Now, I think I give you a compliment when I assume you're not a Thatcher fan, so how have you come to peace what what she was and what others tried to make her (and have they succeed, do people really look at Margaret tatcher and think "what a feminist")?

“I think I give you a compliment when I assume you're not a Thatcher fan” haha yes you do and I am very much not a fan!!

So I wasn’t born until two years after Maggie quit so it never really mattered to me that she was our first female PM. But interestingly we’re going through a similar thing now because we’ve just got our first Prime Minister who’s a person of colour, who follows a faith other than Christianity. But it’s also Rishi Sunak, a privately educated billionaire who supports policies that have disproportionate harm on people who are from marginalised groups. It’s different because I’m not a Hindu Asian person so it isn’t personal representation for me in the same way female leaders would be but there’s been a lot of think pieces about people being torn between celebrating representation and being realistic about what Rishi will actually do with the platform and power he has.

Ultimately both can be true. Your President shows that in your country being female is not inherently a barrier to being a leader, and that is notable. But at the same time, if the policies a leader introduces are discriminatory and harmful then it doesn’t matter if it’s a man or a woman delivering them. So you could argue it shows being female isn’t a barrier as long as your policies don’t try to help women or anyone else. And you can recognise that too. It can be hard to recognise two seemingly opposing views but sometimes that’s how things are! Different individuals or newspapers will emphasise one side or the other depending on their own political views and that’s inevitable, but you can just hold firm in believing that reality is more complicated. It might be easier for me because I have just always taken the view that a politician won’t ever be like me. Even if they’re a 30 year old woman who went to the same school as me. They won’t be like me because they’re a politician, they have power I don’t have and I do think that changes you. So I don’t need my politicians to have felt my experiences, I just need them to listen to me sharing my experiences and take action as a result. I guess because of that whenever we get new leadership my reaction is always just “ok and what are you going to do?”

[ambitiousbaba]

The Hindu Editorial Analysis : 22nd June 2024

The Hindu Editorial Analysis We all are aware of the importance of reading The Hindu newspaper with the aspect of improving reading ability, easily comprehending paragraphs, getting updated with the current events, improving essay writing and many more. For a banking aspirant it becomes necessary to read editorials for vocabulary. In this article we are going to discuss the points of today’s…

[gkfinder]

Read Insightly The Hindu Vocabulary 13 June 2024. Download The Hindu Vocabulary 2024 PDF For Govt Exams by PendulumEdu.

[rashmeerl]

India cuts Hindu nationalist Modi down to size

Today, the headline in one #Indian newspaper reads: “#India gives NDA third term, #Modi a message”. It’s a reference to the reality that the Indian voter has given the NDA coalition of parties led by the BJP’s Narendra Modi the chance to run the next government. But Modi himself has been cut down to size. And now, he and his BJP may be forced to focus more on economic reform and job creation rather than #Hindu nationalism and culture wars. So, who were the “new experts” who normalised the BJP’s divisive message? #thisweekthosebooks gets the lowdown from Dr Anuradha Sajjanhar who’s written a new book on the subject. Pl read

thisweekthosebooks.substack.com/p/hindu-nationalism-hawked-by-india-new-brahmins

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[hanagaki365]

5 Inspiring Stories of Women's Empowerment: From Adversity to Achievement

In a world where gender equality remains an ongoing struggle, stories of women's empowerment are inspiring. From overcoming adversity to achieving remarkable feats, these stories highlight the resilience and the undying spirit of women across diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

In this collection, we delve into five captivating stories of courage, perseverance, and empowerment. Each story showcases the incredible journey of a woman who defied the odds, emerged triumphant, and left an indelible mark on the world.

Dr Rukhmabai Bhikaji

Dr Rukhmabai Bhikaji’s name may not be as widely recognized as it deserves, yet her story resonates deeply with those championing feminist causes today. As the first Hindu woman in India to obtain a legal divorce, her landmark case in 1885 marked a precedent in Indian legal history, catalyzing significant legislative changes such as the Age of Consent Act of 1891 and the eradication of child marriage.

Her journey extends far beyond the courtroom, encompassing her pioneering role as one of India's earliest female doctors practicing Western medicine. Born in Mumbai in 1864, Rukhmabai's early experiences, including a child marriage at age 11, fueled her determination to challenge societal norms and fight for women's rights.

Despite facing immense societal pressure, Rukhmabai courageously refused to comply with her husband's demands to live together, leading to a protracted legal battle that captured national attention. Her unwavering stance against an unwanted marriage sparked a nationwide discourse on women's autonomy and set the stage for future feminist movements in India.

Rukhmabai's legacy beyond her legal victory, encompasses her tireless advocacy through writings under the pseudonym 'A Hindu Lady' in the Times of India newspaper and her groundbreaking medical career. Her journey from a child bride to a pioneering physician exemplifies the power of resilience and determination in challenging systemic injustices and inspiring change for generations to come.

Rajalakshmi Sakthivel

Rajalakshmi Sakthivel's journey in the tech industry exemplifies perseverance and determination. Despite graduating as a top student in Electronics and Communication Engineering, she faced initial challenges securing a job in top-tier companies due to limited recruitment opportunities. However, her resilience led her to excel in roles at companies like ADS Exports and CG Smith Software, where she honed her skills and discovered her passion for the automotive industry.

Transitioning to Delphi's offshore development center marked a turning point in Sakthivel's career, propelling her towards leadership roles and groundbreaking projects. She played an important role in the launch of the Tata Nano, a project she describes with immense pride, highlighting her contributions to product design and engineering.

Throughout her journey, Sakthivel navigated personal challenges, including pregnancy, with remarkable resolve, balancing her professional responsibilities with personal milestones. Her dedication and expertise earned her recognition as the first female technical lead at APTIV and later as Senior Director at HARMAN International, where she oversees global initiatives in car audio technology.

As a senior woman leader in the tech industry, Sakthivel advocates for initiatives to retain and support women in tech careers. She emphasizes the importance of organizations identifying and nurturing women talent from early stages, providing clear career paths and support systems to address challenges such as work-life balance and imposter syndrome. Through her inspiring journey, Sakthivel continues to pave the way for future generations of women in technology.

Ismat Chughtai

Ismat Chughtai, affectionately known as Ismat Apa, was born into a liberal Muslim family in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, in 1915. Her stories delve deep into the lives of women from diverse backgrounds, reflecting her keen observations and empathetic understanding. Despite facing controversies and criticism, Chughtai fearlessly continued to amplify the voices of women through her writings, challenging societal taboos and norms.

One of Chughtai's seminal works, "Lihaf," stirred controversy upon its release in 1942, yet garnered acclaim for its bold exploration of female desire. Despite facing legal repercussions for obscenity, Chughtai stood her ground, emerging as a symbol of defiance against societal constraints. Over time, her stories have been reinterpreted by different segments of society, reflecting evolving perspectives on gender and sexuality.

Chughtai's association with the Progressive Writers' Association in 1936 marked a standalone moment in her literary journey, aligning her work with fellow visionaries like Sadat Hasan Manto. Despite facing censorship and public scrutiny, Chughtai's progressive ideals reshaped the literary landscape of her time. Her feminist themes and nuanced portrayals of female characters continue to resonate with readers across generations.

In adapting to changing times, Chughtai explored various mediums, including plays and films, further expanding her influence on contemporary literature and art. Today, her legacy endures through adaptations of her works and scholarly interpretations, reaffirming her status as a pioneering voice in Indian literature. Ismat Chughtai's fearless spirit and unapologetic storytelling continue to inspire readers, activists, and feminists, transcending barriers of gender and time.

Nalini Malini

Born in 1946 in Karachi against the backdrop of India's partition, Malani's formative years were deeply influenced by the workings of that era, instilling in her a keen awareness of identity, displacement, and societal injustices. Her journey into the world of art began with formal education at the Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art in Mumbai, followed by a transformative stint at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris on a French Government Scholarship, where she was exposed to diverse influences that shaped her artistic vision.

Malani's artistic oeuvre is marked by its boldness and diversity, employing multimedia techniques ranging from video installations to hand-drawn animations. Her work delves into themes of feminism, colonialism, violence, and cultural identity, challenging conventional narratives and beckoning viewers into a dialogue about pressing social issues. Utilizing mythological imagery and symbolism, Malani bridges the past and present, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary issues.

One of Malani's seminal exhibitions, "Nalini Malani: My Reality is Different – National Gallery Contemporary Fellowship with Art Fund," showcased her innovative reinterpretation of classical artworks through video animations. Her portfolio includes significant works celebrated internationally, with retrospectives at esteemed institutions like the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Malani's contributions to contemporary art have been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Joan Miró Prize and the Kyoto Prize in Arts and Philosophy, underscoring her enduring impact on the art world.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Malani remains an outspoken advocate for social and political change, using her platform to address issues of feminism, gender equality, and human rights. Her activism and engagement with feminist movements inspire others to challenge the status quo and strive for social justice. As a pioneering artist, Nalini Malani's legacy transcends generations, reminding us of the transformative power of art in fostering meaningful dialogue and effecting positive change in society.

Laxmi Agarwal

The movie "Chhapaak" draws inspiration from the real-life journey of Laxmi Agarwal, a courageous acid attack survivor whose resilience has touched hearts around the world. Born into a middle-class family in Delhi, Laxmi's aspirations of becoming a singer were abruptly altered by a tragic incident that would change her life forever.

Naeem Khan, a suitor twice her age, unleashed a horrific attack on Laxmi in 2005, as she made her way to a bookshop. The acid assault left her writhing in agony, enduring extensive physical and emotional trauma. Recalling the ordeal, Laxmi vividly described the sensation of her skin melting away, leaving her with a shattered sense of identity.

Despite the profound impact of the attack, Laxmi's indomitable spirit shone through as she embarked on a journey of resilience and advocacy. Filing a Public Interest Litigation in 2006, she sought to ban the sale of acid, leading to landmark legal reforms in 2013. Her courageous activism earned her global recognition, including the prestigious International Women of Courage Award from former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Notwithstanding personal challenges and societal scrutiny, Laxmi continued to champion the cause of acid attack survivors, becoming a beacon of hope and resilience. Her unwavering commitment to justice and human rights serves as a testament to the power of courage and advocacy in the face of adversity.

Smile Foundation and Women Empowerment

Smile Foundation's women empowerment program, Swabhiman helps women in India to become stronger. Through Swabhiman, women gain confidence and skills to support themselves and their families. It's a positive step towards empowerment and improving their overall quality of life.

The women from slum areas and rural-remote places learn new things and get better at their jobs. This makes their lives better and helps their families too.

[kgsupsccourses]

What to Read for Current Affairs for UPSC Preparation

Preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination demands a thorough understanding of UPSC current affairs, as it forms a significant portion of the syllabus. Current affairs encompass a wide range of topics, including national and international events, government policies, economic developments, social issues, scientific advancements, and more. To effectively prepare for current affairs in the UPSC examination, aspirants need to identify the right sources and materials to read. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to read for today current affairs for UPSC preparation:

Newspapers:

The Hindu: Renowned for its comprehensive coverage and unbiased reporting, The Hindu is a preferred newspaper for UPSC aspirants. It covers national and international news, editorials, and analysis that are relevant for the exam.

Indian Express: Another popular choice among UPSC aspirants, Indian Express provides in-depth coverage of current affairs, including detailed analyses and opinions on significant events.

Magazines:

Yojana: Published by the Government of India, Yojana focuses on socio-economic issues and government schemes. It offers insightful articles and analyses that are beneficial for UPSC preparation.

Kurukshetra: This magazine emphasizes rural development and government initiatives in rural areas. It provides valuable insights into various government schemes and policies relevant for UPSC aspirants.

Monthly Current Affairs Magazines:

Civil Services Chronicle: Known for its extensive coverage of current affairs, Civil Services Chronicle offers monthly magazines with updates on national and international events, along with practice questions and analysis.

Pratiyogita Darpan: A popular magazine for competitive exams, Pratiyogita Darpan provides current affairs updates, general knowledge articles, and previous years' question papers, aiding UPSC aspirants in their preparation.

Government Reports and Websites:

PIB (Press Information Bureau): PIB releases official press releases, government announcements, and updates on various government initiatives. It is a reliable source for UPSC aspirants to stay updated on government policies and programs.

PRS Legislative Research: PRS Legislative Research offers insights into parliamentary proceedings, bills, and policies. It provides detailed analyses of important legislative developments that are crucial for UPSC preparation.

Online Platforms and Blogs:

KGS IAS: KGS IAS is an online platform offering study materials, mock tests, and current affairs updates specifically tailored for UPSC aspirants.

Annual Reports and Surveys:

Economic Survey: Published by the Ministry of Finance, the Economic Survey provides insights into the state of the Indian economy, fiscal policies, and economic trends. It is an essential read for UPSC aspirants preparing for the economy-related topics.

India Year Book: Published by the Publications Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the India Year Book offers comprehensive information on various aspects of India's governance, economy, and society.

In conclusion, preparing for current affairs in the UPSC examination requires a multi-dimensional approach, encompassing newspapers, magazines, government reports, online platforms, and annual publications. Aspirants should adopt a structured study plan, regularly update themselves with relevant information, and practice answer writing to effectively tackle current affairs-related questions in the UPSC examination.This article was originally published by medium.com/@upsccourses. Read the original article here.

[uniqueiasblog]

Strategies for IAS Preparation in Bhopal

Becoming an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is a dream for many individuals in our country. It is a prestigious and highly respected position that comes with immense responsibility and power. However, the journey to becoming an IAS officer is not an easy one. It requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. With Bhopal emerging as a hub for IAS coaching, let's take a look at some strategies for IAS preparation in Bhopal.

1) Join a Reputed IAS Coaching Institute: The first step towards preparing for the IAS exam is to join a reputed IAS coaching in Bhopal. Bhopal has several renowned coaching institutes that offer comprehensive courses for IAS preparation. These institutes have experienced faculty, well-researched study material, and a structured approach to help students crack the exam. Some of the top coaching institutes in Bhopal are Unique IAS Study Circle, etc.

2) Create a Study Plan: The IAS exam covers a vast syllabus, and it is crucial to have a well-planned study schedule to cover all the topics effectively. Make a study plan that suits your daily routine and stick to it religiously. Divide your time wisely between different subjects and revise regularly. A good study plan will not only help you cover the syllabus but also keep you motivated and on track.

Also Read: UPSC Coaching in Bhopal

3) Read Newspapers and Stay Updated: The IAS exam tests not only your knowledge but also your awareness and understanding of current affairs. Reading newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express, and Economic Times will help you stay updated with the latest happenings in the country and the world. Make notes of important events and issues, and revise them regularly.

4) Practice Writing: Writing is a crucial aspect of the IAS exam, and it is essential to develop good writing skills. Practice writing essays, answers to previous year's question papers, and mock tests regularly. This will not only improve your writing speed but also help you understand the pattern of the exam.

Also Read: UPSC Coaching in Bhopal

5) Take Advantage of Online Resources: In today's digital age, there are numerous online resources available for IAS preparation. You can find study material, previous year's question papers, and mock tests online. You can also join online forums and discussion groups to interact with other aspirants and exchange study material and tips.

Also Read: IAS Mock Interview Preparation

[tripathi-vlog]

An Open Letter to Kripalu Maharaj, Leader of Kripalu Maharaj Parishat and Self-Proclaimed Jagadguru of the World

Can You Hear The Sound of Our Voices?

August 10, 2012, Texas USA — Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat is heralding the commencement of a “historic” event this evening, according to the organization. The organization’s leader is giving a lecture from Vrindaban that will be broadcast around India on several television stations. Likely millions will hear him and be impressed. Many of these people will know nothing of the real Kripalu Maharaj, a man who has raped, molested, robbed, and pillaged millions in his 60-year career as a “guru” and self-proclaimed “jagadguru.”

Kripalu Maharaj, whose real name is Ram Tripathi, comes from northeast India near Manghar in U.P. But he found his fortune as a “guru” starting in Vrindaban, when he opened his first ashram. His organization has gone through several name changes, the latest of which is the eponymously named Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP). Now he owns the largest and likely most expensive temple in that holy city, from which he will speak tonight.

For decades, concerned Hindus and Westerners in India and the U.S.A. have made significant efforts to warn people about this man, and his unscrupulous and criminal behavior, which includes his most despicable crimes: raping underage girls. But his immense gang of preachers and ardent (some say brainwashed) devotees work tirelessly to bury the bad news and exalt their leader.

While they have the money to put into massive marketing and image campaigns around the world, the people who have been hurt are left without a voice. This document combines many of the voices of the people who have tried to warn others about Kripalu over the years. Their message is important because it can help people learn the truth and save themselves from the clutches of Kripalu’s dangerous cult. These voices deserve to be heard.

1. On August 31, 1990, someone, who was too fearful of JKP to use his or her real name wrote the following letter to Mr. B.P. Singh, Prime Minister of India in New Delhi.

Dr. Mr. Singh,

I had been thing to write you for a long time but could not do so. Today I have decided to write you with the hope that something will be done to stop the corruption and abuse played by so called Sadhus of India. When you came to power there was and is a hope that corruption will be wiped out.

In U.S.A. there is a lady who calls herself the DiDi Parkari but her real name is KumKum G. Sharma. Her Guru is Kirpalu Maharaj and he has an Ashram in Mangarh near Allahabad up. Kirpalu calls himself a Jagatguru. This DiDi has collected huge sums of money from here and is envolved in Gold smuggling.

We Indians will appreciate it very much if an inquiry is made against this DiDi and Jagat Guru Kirpalu Maharaj. There has been threats on the lives of people by this sect. That is why nobody is coming forward to write directly.

We are enclosing all the documents we have here, and hope something would be done to curb the moves of this sect.

With Regards

Yours sincerely,

Indian People

2. Enclosed in the packet of information sent by the author of this letter were several articles published in India newspapers after Kripalu’s arrest for rape in 1991 with headlines like: “The Hedonistic Sadhu,” “The Cunning Kripalu Maharaj,” and “The Hypocritical Kripalu Maharaj.” The articles have been copied and shared so many times that they are difficult to read. But here are excerpts from one of them published on September 27, 1991, after Kripalu was arrested for raping two underage. He had been running from the law for months when he was finally apprehended by law enforcement.

“It was morning at Nagpur airport. Ten (10) police from Delhi went to the airport at 11:00. Inspector Takhur went to the airport for Tripathi. When the plane landed they were looking for one passenger whose name is Ram Tripathi. The police identified him as soon as he came out from the airport. He was apprehended and taken to the police station. People were saying that he was an ‘all-rounder’ saint, meaning the one who says he ‘knows everything.’ Yet Tripathi (aka, Kripalu) he didn’t know that police were waiting for him.

“After arresting him at the police station, he was taken to the Nagpur court before First Grade Magistrate, Kureshi. They stated his crimes and said they had been looking for him for the past five months. He was being accused of raping and abducting two underage girls named Meera and Hema, and keeping them in his ashram. He is not a saint; he is a shame on humanity. An investigation had found that he was arrogant, fake, and a womanizer. He had touched many ladies and many young girls. Many people in and out of the courthouse were shouting that this Kripalu was fake and arrogant. They said: Give him the death penalty. 

“In his life, he had access to a lot of young devotee ladies. He gained their faith and trust, so they will do anything he asks. So whenever he wanted to indulge in his desire for sex, he found a way. He could get his sexual desire satisfied at any time. An organization gave him the title of jagadguru. One time he gave a lecture sitting on a silver throne. He announced himself that he is the descension of Bhagwan Krishna and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. He said: ‘Whoever is present here I am your guru. I am already above everything. You accept guru as a higher position; sometimes more than even God. I am every man’s father and every woman’s husband. Whatever I order, you have to accept. Otherwise it will be meaningless.’ Devotees accepted whatever he said.

“While giving this lecture he saw a beautiful girl in the lecture hall. And told his servant to take that girl to his bedroom. When she was in his room. Kripalu closed the door. He ordered the girl to take off all her clothes. She got scared and asked why. Kripalu said I am giving you prem dhan.’ (This means ‘gift of love,’ and is used here as a euphemism for sex.) All your disease, misery, and pain will be gone. She said: no I will not do that. Kripalu said: If you don’t do it, something bad will happen to you. Think about it. Whatever I’m ordering, you do it. Then she got scared and took off all of her clothes. He raped her. This was in 1970.

“In this way, Kripalu gave prem dhan to many young girls. Educated young girls were also getting caught in the trap to get the prem dhan. There was a line to get the prem dhan. He made Mangarh the main center for prem dhan. At the time of his arrest 84 girls were gathered over there to get the prem dhan. Also, in Vrindavan where he built an ashram, other girls were waiting for his prem dhan. The manager of his Vrindavan ashram was his elder daughter. He was not able to give all the prem dhan to all the women who wanted it. So he got some of the devotees to do some of the prem dhan. He gave them the opportunity to do, such as Priya Sharan.

“In July of 1984, in a small village near Phat Poor, there was a young man name Priya Sharan, who became his devotee. Kripalu selected him to help do the prem dhan, and he did it four years. He then left Kripalu, went to his own village, Sarovari, and opened his own ashram. 

“Kripalu has many devotees in many cities. But very important ones in Bombay included: Jai Shankar Maphur, Kantibai Patel, Bhagwan Shaw, and Videsh Jain. They were in the clothing and diamond businesses. He had devotees who gave lots of money. Some devotees were actresses and politicians. Kripalu’s fame was going to the ditch by February 1991 when he went to Nagpur where one of his devotee’s requested him to give a lecture on 16th February 1991. While giving the lecture, he noticed two very beautiful girls, Meera and Hema. They came with their father to listen to the lecture. Once he saw them, one of his devotees escorted them to his bedroom and Kripalu convinced them both to give him prem dhan. But one devotee created trouble.

“One young man named Niteen Pandey was a trusted devotee servant and very faithful. He thought of Kripalu as God. Kripalu changed his name to Swami Nityanand. One of his duties was talking care of a cooler outside one corner of Kripalu’s bedroom. Nityanand didn’t know about prem dhan. After the two girls had passed many hours alone with Kripalu, Nityanand thought, let me see what this prem dhan is and why it takes so long. He climbed on the cooler and from the window crack he saw things that shocked him. Kripalu and the two girls were all naked. He saw Hema and Kripalu naked on the bed and Meera naked on floor. He ran away from that place. He later found out that Kripalu went to Mangarh and at the same time the two girls disappeared. Then when he found that the girls were in Mangarh with Kripalu. He went and told the father the whole thing. Once he found out exactly what kind of person Kripalu really was, he got very very angry.”

3. One of the articles also speaks to his legal troubles: “With the help of a politician he got out on bond after his arrest for rape.” Presumably, he paid off even more officials, because eventually the case just went away. Here is a description of his rape of these girls, from official documents in India:

On 10th May, 1994, Shri Purushottam Wasudeo Deshpande lodged report with the Police Station, Dhantoli, Nagpur, alleging that his two young daughters, namely Hema and Meera were kidnapped by the applicant No. 1 Priya Sharan Maharaj in connivance with one Sharvaridevi and Suhasini Narkhede. He further stated that his two daughters were attached for the last two years with the movements of Sanatan Dharma Shri Krishna Bhakti, under the auspicious of the applicant No. 1 i.e. Kripaluji Maharaj of Sadhna Bhawan Trust at village Managarh, District Pratapagarh (U.P.). On the basis of the report lodged by Shri Purushottam Deshpande, P.S.O., P.S. Dhantoli, Nagpur, registered an offence on 11-5-1991, punishable under Sections 363 and 366 of the Indian Penal Code, against the applicant No. 1 Shri Priya Sharan Maharaj, vide Crime No. 149/91.

During the investigation, the statements of Hema and Meera came to be recorded. From the statements of these two girls, it is revealed that the applicant No. 2 Kripaluji Maharaj is highly immoral man so also greedy of money. Those who attended the discourses, used to be persuaded and prompted to bring their wives and daughters to attend the discourse of Kripaluji Maharaj. The applicant No. 2 has two female disciples or agents viz. Neelu Chourasia and Sarasvati Yadao, who used to entice the women and girls to attend the discourses as well as pursuing the women and girls to appear in a lonely place before the applicant No. 2. These two agents used to impress on the girls that the Maharaj is the incarnation of God. 

In the lonely place, according to Hema and Meera, Maharaj was most immoral and vulgar person who perforce (by physical coersion) used to commit sexual intercourse with the women and girls. Maharaj committed intercourse with them perforce. It was also impressed on their mind that it is nothing but a ‘Prasad’ of God and they have been blessed accordingly. In spite of this, the girls continued to stay in the vicinity of the Ashram and thereby they had no other go than to succumb to the desire of the applicant No. 2. Therefore, according to these two girls named above, the applicant No. 2 Kripaluji Maharaj exploited the religious sentiments of the innocent girls in the name of God. 

4. Sometime after his arrest, someone sent the following warning notice on a flyer out in India. 

Alert. Alert. Alert. 

Here is information about the human demon — Kaliyug Chaitanya Mahaprabhu — the fake Jagadguru — Kripalu’s deceptive conduct. This notice is for all of the religious person in this area to inform them that a man calling himself a “Jagadguru” is living here and there in these places (Raigurth, Vilaspur, Mugali, Raipur, Rajnundgav, and Bhatchara). This Alert is to inform good people about him. A pundit from Kashi was contacted to confirm this information. 

Kripalu does kirtan and has a little knowledge of Sanskrit. So people go to hear him. It is known that during one kirtan in Kanpur he claimed to make a girl feel like a gopi and himself to feel like Krishna. Then he kissed her and engaged in immoral behavior with her (had sex). When this happened many people got angry. So someone threw acid in his face during a ras leela. The skin around his eyes was damaged, but he got treatment. However, there is still one small spot from the acid below his left eye. That is the mark that identifies him as the one who performed these immoral activities (with underage girls). He tried to pretend that that mark is some disease. 

He has used the title of “Jagadguru,” which he had never received, but with which he’s trying to cheat the people. According to the Kashi Vidwat Parishat (who he claims gave him the title), he was never given the designation of Jagadguru. He made it up. He artificially awarded this upadhi (title) to himself. Related to his man, on the 28th of February, a journal article (page 853) was published to inform the world (about him). The title of the article was: “God Save Us From this Extremely Demonic Mahatma.” A journalist received a letter that was written by one devotee and it’s described here. 

The person who wrote the letter one time saw this mahatma doing kirtan, during which he became unconscious, fell on ground, and had tears coming out of his eyes. So the man became impressed and accepted him as his guru, and he (Kripalu) accepted him as his devotee. But later he saw on he man’s true character and behavior and was shocked. Then he started thinking all kinds of thoughts about him in his mind; then he got scared. He felt that if he told anyone he would be committing “guru aparadh” (a transgression against a guru). 

At that time, Kripalu was staying at many rich people’s homes and giving a lot of eloquent lectures, and he was impressing the people. But he was playing with the people’s emotions and stating that he himself was the avatar of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. 

When that devotee (who wrote the letter) was staying with him day and night very close to him, he realized his character and manner of dressing, which was exactly like family man. But his lustful behavior was at a peak level. During the day, he was eating 100 pan with nicotine. And he was raping beautiful pious young girls and taking their virginity. All these things he saw with his own eyes and quit his association and went away from him. 

After three months this devotee wrote the letter. At that time, the guru was staying at a lawyer’s home. The devotee wrote to Kriplau: He stated that his behavior is not that of a real mahaprabhu and he gave the example of a true mahaprabhu from Gosai Chalissa (Ram charan punkaj anurag …). 

Because of his eloquent lectures, people were becoming impressed and inviting him to stay in their homes. But at that time he was taking advantage of the innocent beautiful young girls and destroying their virginity after telling them: “I will destroy your material desire and I will reveal God to you.” Innocent girls did not understand, and under his influence were having sex with him. Wherever he was staying, his sexual behavior with the girls was getting worse and worse. Those innocent people were not recognizing his behavior and were thinking about guru aparadh and so did not expose his behavior.

You can check out this particular article and whatever is described here in the “Kalyan Journal.” It was published in Gita Press. After noticing this article, it was made public. Now we are sharing this information to alert people about this bad demonic person. If you go for kirtan, be aware of the true nature of this “religion.” Do not let your mothers and sisters anywhere near this deceptive person, who has obsessive sexual desires. 

You can identify him by the mark below his left eyes. 

5. Someone posted the following message on a blog about fake gurus following the arrest and conviction of Kripalu’s “foremost devotee,” Prakashanand Saraswati, who fled into Mexico following his conviction for child molestation. It addresses Kripalu’s claim that Kashi Vidwat Parishad gave him the title “jagadguru.” 

It is nothing new to hear sex, rape, harassment and sexual abuse scandals of the so-called “Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj” he is an all-time sex and fraud Guru. I remember reading a leaflet about him released by “Kashi Vidwat Parishad” printed in 1940s, the text was (translated):

“To let everybody in India know that so called “Jagadguru” Kripalu is misusing the title “Jagadguru" pretending that we, the “Kashi Vidwat Parishad” have given it to him. This however is wrong and a lie. We did not give any title to this fraudulent man and he should not be using this title at all on the name of “Kashi Vidwat Parishad” as “Kashi Vidwat Parishad” do not know him and have nothing to do with him. With this misuse of the title and our name he cheats the innocent public of India on the name of “Kashi Vidwat Parishad”.

Signed, Kashi Vidwat Parishad

6. Since I launched a Facebook page called The Truth Project for Barsana Dham and JKP, many people have written to me and detailed their abuse by this organization. Further, since the launch of my book, Sex, Lies, and Two Hindu Gurus, this year, I have heard from many more. People write to me with shocking and heart-breaking stories of sexual molestation, pressure to give vast sums of money, and the intentional and unrepentant tearing apart of families. Here are a few of their voices:

Dear Karen,

I was a JKP devotee from Turkey since 5 years, never visited Barsana Dham but went to India 3 times. Since my first moment I entered the ashram in Mangarh, I sensed something very wrong, something very contradictory with spirituality was happening there. As the boyfriend of a 10 years devotee, trusting her spiritual senses, I tried hard to understand the spirituality behind what my eyes were seeing. Each time I failed, all I could see there was a crazy effort to make us give whatever we have and the guru's hedonism. I even witnessed kripalu replacing a young girl's hand on his privates during charan seva as they started to allow men to this seva to prove it was OK. One day a didi asked me (we told them that we were married in order to stay in a room together) if my wife would like to make a very special seva with maharajji. I think my look told her the big NO WAY, she told me to ask her and think about it. Now I know what it would be. 

Best Regards, Arman

Hi Karen, 

My wifeis currently involved with Barsana Dham and has been affiliated with them for the past 15 years or so.  The contents of your book resonates with what is going on with her and I really appreciate you writing about your experiences.  Hopefully I can get some insight on how to pull her out of this mess after reading the details of your book.  She currently is in India to attend the ceremonies for the new temple there. She’s been under the influence of these people and they've basically brainwashed her to the point of extorting money which I've been saving for the past 30 years for our retirement.  

Narendra 

Hi Karen,

I read your book & the story is eerily similar to what I have gone through for 17 years of my life. Unfortunately my parents ignored me when I told them about the story when Maharaji was in US in 2005. I was called one morning to go to his room for the “private time” & was molested by him. I also saw many other girls from the Bay area & also girls who were visiting from other parts of the country including Canada go in & come out crying & devastated. This all happened without the knowledge or any parents. I could not believe myself.

Last year my brother took his new wife to see Maharaji for which I had warned him in advance to not let her see him in private. He knows what goes on too because his ex girlfriend actually slept with Maharaji. The devastating part is that he STILL believes in this person & his organization. 

I just hope that I am able to get my family & extended family out of this. It is uphill battle trust me. There is just way too many lives destroyed. There are kids who were involved in this organization with their parents have end up drinking heavily, doing drugs or getting involved in gangs. This HAS to stop. This is a battle for me with my parents & brother mostly because I have gone through this & don’t want to quit.

Thank you for listening. 

Millions of people tonight across India will hear Kripalu’s voice. Can you help them also hear the voices of the people he has abused? 

Thank you from those who have regained their voice and stood up to tell the world the truth about Kripalu Maharaj, and from those who are still too afraid of JKP to speak out.