Two minds were of Sri Aurobindo and of Sri Ma (The Mother, Mirra Alfa- ssa) of Puducherry. Sri Aurobindo was Indias great rev- olutionary, poet, thinker and yogi of the 20th century. The Mother, Mirra Alfassa was his spiritual collaborator. But then, why did the conflu- ence of these two souls happen in India? Because, as Sri Ma said, Even though the Soul may be one everywhere, it is so in a spe- cial way in India which has a high spiritual mission on Earth. The effect of such a conflu- ence was that they together undertook a formidable evolu- tionary experiment aiming at a most explicit One-ness, which exists not by suppressing variety but, instead, an infinitely wide and comprehensive conscious- ness takes up in itself, assimi- lates and furthers all manifesta- tions of multiplicity without los- ing itself in the process. Sri Ma (Mother) took charge of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which was established with the main purpose of instituting the spirit of spiritualism in the minds of people, for improving their level of consciousness for a real and meaningful growth. She initiated the disciples into the new consciousness which Sri Aurobindo brought down on the earth. Both Sri Ma and Sri Auro- bindo gave more stress and fo- cus on consciousness and na- ture of earth through the path of spiritual life. Sri Aurobindo said, Any one who wants the spiritual life, should need to know that there is a soul within and above there is Grace (From Nirodbarans Correspondence with Sri Auro- bindo, 21.1.1936). Sri Aurobindo further said, It is a spiritual principle not to take away any faith or support of faith unless the persons who have it are able to replace it by something larger and more complete (CWSA 29: 365). Being spiritual means being conscious. A person with a high level of consciousness can con- trol and by continuing the mas- tery, one changes ones charac- ter, which is essential for inner transformation and improving the psychic being and psycho- logical health. In order to attain true con- sciousness, one has to go deeper within and bring out the full force of the psychic into the physical. It can be done by work, by dedication, by doing the work for the Divine only without thought of self. (Letters on Yoga, Vol. 23, pp. 738-39). Thread- bare analysis of the views and thou- ghts of Sri Ma and Sri Aurobindo wo- uld lay bare their main objectives for emphasizing on improvement of conscious- ness of the individual and then gradual transformation of the people in a society as a whole. The mission was for con- current spiritual and economic development of India. How deep their aspiration to this effect was would be clear from the follow- ing two statements: In the next great stage of human progress, it is not a material but a spiritual, moral and psychical advance that has to be made and for this a free Asia and in Asia a free India must take the lead (Sri Auro- bindo, CWSA 6 : 572) and India is the country where the psychic law can and must rule and the time has come for that here. Besides, it is the only possi- ble salvation for this country whose consciousness has unfor- tunately been distorted by the influence and domination of a foreign nation, but which, in spite of everything, possesses unique spiritual heritage (Sri Ma, CWM 13 : 370). The two minds could assess that the materialism of modern times had turned the people from the spiritual life to the world of materialistic tendency and this had cau- sed humanity to be far from having progressed. In the Second World War, Sri Au- robindo put all his force behind the Allies and not be- hind Hitler. For the victory of Hit- ler would mean a powerful setback in evolution and entail the subjec- tion not only of all Europe, but ulti- mately of Asia itself, whilst a vic- tory of the Allies would keep all possibilities open for further evolution. Sri Aurobindo wrote in a letter: Even if I knew that the Allies would misuse their victory or bungle the peace I would still put my force behind them. At any rate things could not be one-hundredth part as bad as they would be under Hitler. The ways of the Lord would still be open ~ to keep them open is what matters. The partition of India and the creation of Pakistan was, in Aurobindos vision a grave human error and not divinely intended. In the vision of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, the true India would have included Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and even Burma. Sri Aurobindo is probably the only spiritual philosopher who believed that mankind had a terrestrial future ~ a life of ful- filment here on earth. Out of the three narrative poems he wrote, namely, Urva- sie; Love and Death and Savitri, Savitri had a special fascination for Sri Aurobindo. In the first two stories, love triumphs over death but the price paid is life on earth. In Sav- itri, however, Savitris love tri- umphs. She comes back to earth to live her life with Satyaban. She does not sacrifice life on earth. Such was the love for earth and India displayed by Sri Ma and Sri Aurobindo. In his message written on 15 August 1947, Sri Aurobindo said, among other things, India would now play a greater role in the progress of human civilisa- tion; the rise of a new, a greater, brighter and nobler life for mankind which for its entire realisation would rest outwardly on an international unification of the separate existence of the people, preserving and securing their national life but drawing them together into an overrid- ing and consummating one- ness In conclusion, it can be said without ambiguity that the meeting of the two minds has evolved the means of transform- ing society by means of propa- gating the concept of spirituality as a means of improving ones level of consciousness at a micro level and then expanding it at a macro level so much so that an individuals growth becomes concomitant to the growth of the society. It is now up to us and the government to adopt those views of the Mother and Sri Aurobindo to find a new India which will lead the world.

See the rest here:
Meeting of Minds - The Statesman

Delhi recorded very poor air quality today which marks sixth consecutive day for AQI to be in 300-400 range. An average hourly Air Quality Index of 388 was registered at 11 am today, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

Also read: IMD issues Orange Alert for very heavy rain, thunderstorms in these four states till 23 November. See full forecast

Yesterday, an AQI of 395 was registered at 4 pm. According to the Union Earth Sciences Ministrys Early Warning System, the subsequent six days will witness very poor air quality with minimal significant change.

Also read: Delhi air quality very poor, AQI at 348; no relief from high pollution levels for next few days

Over the last two days, cold north-westerly winds have led to a fall in temperature creating a favourable atmosphere for smog-filled air. On November 23, wind direction was expected to switch to easterly. Delhi recorded the season's lowest temperature today of 9.2 degrees Celsius today morning with a minimum temperature of 10.4 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature to be around 27.6 degrees Celsius.

Also read: Heavy rain batters Tamil Nadu, schools shut; orange alert in parts of Kerala

As per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) most stations around Delhi registered severe and very poor air quality at 11 am that is in the range 300-500 on a scale of 500. In North Campus AQI stood at 482, in Dwarka-Sector 8 AQI stood at 412, in IGI Airport (T3) AQI stood at 402, in R K Puram AQI stood at 415, in Mundka AQI stood at 420, in Punjabi Bagh AQI stood at 426, in Nehru Nagar AQI stood at 424, in Wazirpur AQI stood at 423 and in Rohini AQI stood at 413.

Also read: Tamil Nadu rains: All govt, private schools in THESE districts shut today due to heavy rainfall

Locations where very poor air quality was recorded include Mandir Marg where AQI stood at 390, New Moti Bagh where AQI stood at 388, Ashok Vihar where AQI stood at 386, Sirifort where AQI stood at 385, Pusa where AQI stood at 385, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium where AQI stood at 384, Sri Aurobindo Marg where AQI stood at 379, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium where AQI stood at 378, DTU where AQI stood at 369, Najafgarh where AQI stood at 365, Lodhi Road where AQI stood at 354, ITO where AQI stood at 346, Arya Nagar where AQI stood at 341, Aya Nagar where AQI stood at 339 and Shadipur where AQI stood at 334.

Western disturbances are expected to bring rainfall on November 27 and a dip in average temperature to around 10 degrees Celsius is expected in the coming days followed by a rise by 1-2 degrees Celsius.

Scientist Kuldeep SrivastavaWinds have remained northwesterly over the last two days, but it will become variable once more from Thursday, fluctuating between easterly, southeasterly, and northeasterly over the next two days, thus halting the dip in mercury," reported HT. He further added, Western disturbance will impact Delhi on November 27, with chances of a drizzle in some parts," which will lead to a further dip in temperature. IMD forecasted haze to blanket Delhi again on November 28.

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Delhi struggles with very poor air quality for 6th day in a row; Check when will rain wash off pollution fears | Mint - Mint

Express News Service | Published: 23rd November 2023 10:43 AM President Droupadi Murmu and AP Governor S Abdul Nazeer during the convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning in Puttaparthi on Wednesday | Express

ANANTAPUR: Spirituality is Indias invaluable contribution to the world, said President of India Droupadi Murmu. Participating as a chief guest at the 42nd convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning in Puttaparthi on Wednesday, she said that from time to time, great spiritual figures have spread the message of virtue, compassion and philanthropy.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba was one such great personality who sanctified the area of Puttaparthi. Millions of people have been and will continue to benefit from his blessings, the President added. Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer and minister KV Usha Sricharan also attended the programme.

The President said that she was happy to note that Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning gives fundamental importance to human and spiritual values. Murmu further lauded the institutes holistic vision towards education and the concept of edu-care.

Expressing confidence that students of the Institute will succeed in developing professionally sound, socially responsible and spiritually aware personalities, Murmu said that they are expected to spread the values and teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba and present examples of spiritual growth along with modern development.

Sharing her personal experience of teaching at the Sri Aurobindo Integral Education Centre in Rairangpur of Odisha, the President said, The main goal of Integral Education is to transmit the life values of truth, good conduct, peace, affection, and non-violence in the life of every student. Later, President Droupadi Murmu conferred 21 Gold Medals on the qualifying students who achieved distinction in various disciplines.

Governor Abdul Nazeer in his address said, The Institute is a beacon of light for value-based Integral education in this country. He congratulated the students and said that he believed the values imbibed here are making a positive impact on society and that the students have a greater responsibility to live the message of true education as they step out into the world.

He said the culture of Bharat is based on the eternal truth which is unaffected by time and place, unshaken by circumstances, unchanged by historical changes, and untouched by natural calamities. The President, the Governor and other dignitaries were received by Chancellor K Chakravarthi, and Vice-Chancellor Prof B Raghavendra Prasad and Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust managing trustee RJ Rathnakar.

Raghavendra Prasad shared a summary of the activities by the various departments and by the Institute during the previous academic year and to date. He highlighted the implementation of the new four-year programmes in alignment with the NEP 2020, the institutes focus on emerging technologies, strides made on the Industry-academia connect, and the establishment of the Centres for Excellence.

The rest is here:
Spirituality is Indias gift to world: President Droupadi Murmu - The New Indian Express

Earlier this year, A. R. Rahman's eldest daughter Khatija Rahman made her debut as a music composer with the Tamil film 'Minmini' and in no time, Khatija is on her way to the International stage as a composer. The songstress is making her International debut for the UK-Indian film 'Lioness' which is set to release in 2025. But with all this news, do you really know who Khatija Rahman is? Let's introduce you to her!

Early life

Khatija Rahman was born to the Oscar-Award-winning musician A. R. Rahman and his wife Saira Banu on 29 December 1995. Khatija completed her schooling in Chennai and later enrolled in Stella Maris College in Chennai for a Bachelor in Commerce. After her graduation, the singer-composer completed her Bachelors and Masters in Islamic Studies from B.S. Abdur Rahman College. She has also completed a course in Music Business Management from Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication in Delhi.

Personal life

Khatija Rahman tied the knot with Riyasdeen Shaik Mohamed in 2022 who is an audio engineer. According to various reports, he has collaborated with AR Rahman and Amit Trivedi on several international tours and concerts. Khatija described her fiance as an aspiring entrepreneur and a wizkid audio engineer.

Meanwhile, Khatija has always been on the receiving end of trolls for donning a Burqa at all times. But not one to take it all, Khatija had once shared on social media, "Every time this topic comes the fire in me rages and makes me want to say a lot of things. Over the last one year, Ive found a different version of myself which I havent seen in so many years. I will not be weak or regret the choices Ive made in life. I am happy and proud of what I do and thanks to those who have accepted me the way I am. My work will speak, God willing.. I dont wish to say any further. To those of you who feel why Im even bringing this up and explaining myself, sadly it so happens and one has to speak for oneself, thats why Im doing it.

A. R. Rahman, on the other hand had said in an interview, Khatija reflects the purity I want to achieve. She reminds me of my growing-up years. She is very clear about what she wants to do with her life and has travelled across the world, but never faced anything for wearing a niqab. Shes quite cool about it.

Musical career

Khatija made her playback debut with the 2010 sci-fi action film Enthiran, singing the title track in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu. Later, in 2020, she released her single 'Farishton' which was recognised at multiple global film festivals and received an honourable mention at the 2021 Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards. Apart from this, Khatija has also sung A. R. Rahman's powerful 2022 Tamil anthem 'Moopilla Thamizhe Thaaye' and 'Chinnanjiru' from the Mani Ratnam historic drama 'Ponniyin Selvan: II.'

The talented artist also ventured into composing music with the Tamil film 'Minmini' which will release in 2024. Apart from this, she has also making her International debut as a music composer with the film 'Lioness' and we wait in awe as A. R. Rahman's daughter is all set to take on the music world, just like her legendary father.

For Bollywood news, Today's Horoscope, Movie Reviews, Listen to Best Podcasts across Romance, Drama, Horror Podcasts and more!

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Everything to know about A. R. Rahmans daughter Khatija Rahman - Mirchi Plus

Express News Service | Published: 24th November 2023 09:17 AM FILE - YSRCP MP K Raghurama Krishna Raju. (Photo | EPS)

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Thursday issued notices to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, YSRC Rajya Sabha member V Vijayasai Reddy, YSRC general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy, Energy Minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, and AP State Beverages Corporation Managing Director Vasudev Reddy in the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by rebel YSRC MP from Narasapur K Raghurama Krishna Raju seeking CBI inquiry into the decisions and policies of the YSRC government.

Stating that before hearing the PIL, it was better to issue Notice Before Admission, the court has issued notices to a total of 41 respondents in the case. The court registry was directed to issue notices and the hearing was posted to December 14.

Notices were also issued to Jagati Publications Limited director Vemireddy Sridhar Reddy, Indira Television Private Limited director K Raja Prasad, Bharathi Cement Corporation director Govindappa Balaji, Sagar Cements Limited director O Rekha, India Cements Limited director Srinivasan, Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited director Bharat Bhushan Mehta, Penna Cements director P Pratap Reddy, My Home Industries director Rameswara Rao, Sri Jayajothi Cements, directors of Bharathi Polymers India Private Limited, Aurobindo Pharma Foundation, Aurobindo Realty and Infrastructure Private Limited, Jayaprakash Power Ventures, Ramky Infrastructure, Turnkey Enterprises, AP Beverages Corporation, Grecian Distilleries, Sun Rays Bottling and Beverages, SPY Agro Industries (Bottling), B9 Beverages, Sentini BioProducts and RR Global Enterprises.

These people were accused of receiving benefits from the Jagan Mohan Reddy governments decisions.

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Rebel YSRC MP files PIL in HC, notices issued to Jagan, 40 others - The New Indian Express

The Chair of Sri Aurobindo at Pondicherry University seeks to formulate oriented degree programmes, diplomas, certificate courses, internships, webinars and workshops to contribute in the advancement of knowledge and propagate the message of Sri Aurobindo, with an emphasis on youth.

Addressing the Chairs inaugural seminar on Celebrating the life and Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo since it was established at the University in the 2022-23 academic session, Richa Tiwari, Chair of Sri Aurobindo, said the objectives also included designing short-term capacity-building programmes and inter-university and inter-collegiate post-graduate and research-level dialogues.

The event, which was held in collaboration with the Government of Puducherry and under the guidance of Ministry of Home Affairs, also featured the unveiling of photographs of Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator The Mother.

According to the Chair, efforts will be initiated to effect an inner re-engineering of the mind, body and spirit based on philosophy of life and social values of Sri Aurobindo in collaboration with all stakeholders.

B.B. Mohanty, dean, School of Social Sciences and International Studies, Pondicherry University, touched upon the multifaceted personality of Sri Aurobindo who was a poet, nationalist, philosopher and yogi. Sri Aurobindos philosophy of spirituality is not confined to a particular section of the society but addresses humanity as a whole, he said.

Rishita Gupta, Officer on Special Duty, Department of Rural Development, said the Chair was set up with the joint efforts of the Ministry of Home Affairs and enthusiasm of the Government of Puducherry to propagate the vision of Sri Aurobindos philosophy.

She urged the youth to not confine their experience of Sri Aurobindo to reading his voluminous and varied books but to imbibe the energy and spirit of his works.

Pradeep Narang, chairman of Sri Aurobindo Society, while lauding the establishment of the much-awaited Chair at Pondicherry University, stated that spirituality was a core value of Indian culture. These values can be restored in their original spirit through an understanding of Sri Aurobindos life and the legacy of his vast literature.

Gurmeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Pondicherry University suggested that the University itself could perhaps have been named after Sri Aurobindo.

The event also featured the launch of the book, Sri Aurobindo: An Extraordinary Phenomenon edited by V. Ananda Reddy and Larry Seidlitz.

A panel discussion led by Nanda Kishor, Department of Politics and International Studies, Beloo Mehra, Auro Bharati, Sri Aurobindo Society and Shiva Kumar, director, Sri Aurobindo Foundation for Integral Education and Research (SAFIER), and moderated by Priti Umamaheshwaram, SAFIER discussed Sri Aurobindos thoughts on new-world order and writings on Indian culture and integral education.

Excerpt from:
Sri Aurobindo Chair established at Pondicherry University to promote his teachings - The Hindu

Tamil Nadu Governor and chairman of the Auroville Foundation, R.N. Ravi, on Tuesday attributed the successful implementation of various programmes for the countrys sizeable population over the past decade to the alignment between the vision of the national leadership and the participation of the people, particularly the youth.

Addressing the Y20 youth summit, hosted in Auroville as part of Indias G20 presidency, Mr. Ravi said whether it was the accelerated financial inclusion drive that led to 500 million bank accounts, providing 30 million beneficiary-built homes or eliminating open defecation by providing sanitation, the success of these initiatives was driven by the involvement of the people, especially the youth.

The magic of the successful transformation was due to a shift from the incrementalism of past decades to an accelerated implementation through mass participation, he said. Noting that the theme of the G20 Summit One Earth. One Family. One Future reflected the Indian ethos of regarding the world as one family, Mr. Ravi said the nation was also setting an example to the world in addressing issues such as climate change by advocating green technologies and renewable energy. And, when India conducts an experiment in delivery of a programme with its 1.4 billion population, the success is regarded as replicable elsewhere in the world, he said. Envisaging a strident leadership role for the global youth going into the future to resolve the numerous crises besetting the world, Mr. Ravi said the Y20 was perhaps the most important engagement partner of the G20 summit, as it facilitated expression of a range of views far more comprehensive and diverse than the leaders of the governments alone could possibly come up with.

Even though the G20 grouping that represented 85% of the world GDP wielded considerable power and influence in tackling numerous crises and reshaping the destiny of the world making it in many ways more effective than even the United Nations, where the contemporary global leadership had a moral obligation to deliver a safe and sustainable earth, the youth of today had an existential stake in shaping the future, Mr. Ravi said.

Urging youth to take up deliberations of global challenges in all seriousness and reflect on the world they envisage as they would soon take up various positions of responsibility, not necessarily political roles, in society, Mr. Ravi hoped that the immersive experience they undergo in Auroville for the delegates would help contribute to Y20 formulations.

Noting that the Y20 summits inaugural coincided perfectly with the 113th anniversary of Sri Aurobindos arrival on the erstwhile Pondicherrys shores, Lt. Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, who is also a member of the Auroville Foundation governing board, urged the youth to cherish and constructively use their freedoms, which were a result of great sacrifices made by those from an earlier generation.

Ms. Soundararajan said Sri Aurobindo had taken the view that freedom should be built on the foundation of our countrys culture and the development. Far from condemning foreign culture, Sri Aurobindo, whose engagement with revolutionary poet Subramania Bharati marking a meeting of great minds that is a part of the citys legacy, favoured assimilation of its good aspects, she said.

Jayanti Ravi, Secretary, Auroville Foundation, who gave an overview of Auroville, said the universal township was envisioned as an experiment in human unity by The Mother, who was spiritual collaborator of Sri Aurobindo to reflect the ideals he propagated, and put into design by French architect Roger Anger.

Anirban Ganguly, Director of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Foundation and Indias official representative of India Youth20 (Y20), Nirima Oza, member, Auroville governing board and Divya Swapna Raj, founder of Womens League Foundation were among those who took part. About 150 youth, including international delegates and Aurovilians in the 18-30 age group, are participating in the three-day summit.

Excerpt from:
Mass participation driving the success of flagship programmes, says Tamil Nadu Governor - The Hindu

By Medha Chawla: The week you had been long waiting for is finally here. Hello, long weekend! You dont have turn up to work this Friday (thanks to Good Friday) and then the regular Saturday-Sunday chill drill follows. But why settle for just three days when you can make it four? Take a leave either on Thursday (April 6) or on Monday (April 10) and escape on a well-deserved vacation.

BTW, you dont have to fret over the vacation planning, as ChatGPT did it all for you! Yup, AI can also double up as your travel planner. All you have to do is choose from these amazing itineraries curated by ChatGPT.

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For Delhiites, ChatGPT has three superb trip suggestions for the impending long weekend Agra-Jaipur tour, Rishikesh-Haridwar tour and Shimla-Manali tour.

Agra and Jaipur Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Early morning departure from Delhi to Agra (approximately a 3-hour drive). Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. After lunch, drive to Jaipur (approximately a 5-hour drive). Check into your hotel in Jaipur and relax.

Day 2: Start your day early with a visit to the Amber Fort. After that, visit the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. In the evening, explore the local markets of Jaipur.

Day 3: Drive to Pushkar (approximately a 2.5-hour drive). Visit the famous Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake. Later, return to Jaipur and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 4: Departure from Jaipur to Delhi (approximately a 5-hour drive).

Rishikesh and Haridwar Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Depart from Delhi to Rishikesh (approximately a 6-hour drive). Check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

Day 2: Start your day with a yoga session. Visit the Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. Take a dip in the holy Ganges and visit the Triveni Ghat. In the evening, you can go for river rafting.

Day 3: Depart for Haridwar (approximately a 1-hour drive). Visit the Har Ki Pauri Ghat and attend the Ganga Aarti. Later, visit the Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. Return to Rishikesh and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 4: Departure from Rishikesh to Delhi (approximately a 6-hour drive).

Shimla and Manali Tour:

Day 1: Depart from Delhi to Shimla (approximately an 8-hour drive). Check into your hotel and relax.

Day 2: Take a tour of Shimla and visit the Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, and the Mall Road. Later, drive to Kufri and visit the Himalayan Nature Park and Kufri Fun World. Return to Shimla and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 3: Depart for Manali (Approx a 7-hour drive). En route, visit the Kullu Shawl Factory and Vaishno Devi Temple. Check into your hotel in Manali and relax.

Day 4: Visit the Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, and the Tibetan Monastery. Later, visit the Solang Valley and enjoy adventure activities like paragliding and skiing. Return to Delhi in the evening (Approx a 12-hour drive).

If you are looking for a 4-day weekend trip from Mumbai, here are some ideas and suggested itineraries by ChatGPT:

Goa itinerary:

Goa is a popular destination for a weekend trip among Mumbaikars. You can explore beautiful beaches, water sports, nightlife and delicious seafood.

Day 1: Fly or drive to Goa. Check into your hotel or resort. Relax on the beach or explore the local markets

Day 2: Visit the famous beaches of North Goa, such as Baga, Anjuna, and Calangute. Enjoy water sports activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.

Day 3: Explore the churches and cathedrals of Old Goa, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral. Take a river cruise on the Mandovi River. Visit the local spice plantations and sample some of the local cuisine

Day 4: Spend the day relaxing on the beach or shopping for souvenirs. Fly or drive back to Mumbai

Mahabaleshwar itinerary:

Mahabaleshwar is a scenic hill station located in the Western Ghats, known for its breathtaking views, strawberry farms and trekking trails.

Day 1: Drive or take a bus to Mahabaleshwar. Check into your hotel or resort. Explore the local markets and sample some of the local cuisine

Day 2: Visit famous viewpoints like Arthur's Seat, Wilson Point, and Kate's Point for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take a stroll through the scenic Venna Lake.

Day 3: Go trekking in the hills and forests of Mahabaleshwar. Visit the strawberry farms and pick some fresh strawberries. Relax at one of the many spas and wellness centers in Mahabaleshwar

Day 4: Visit the nearby Panchgani, a picturesque hill station with beautiful views and colonial-era bungalows. Fly or drive back to Mumbai. If you're based in Delhi and looking for a 4-day weekend trip, here are some ideas with itineraries:

Darjeeling and Kalimpong Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Take an early morning flight from Kolkata to Bagdogra. From Bagdogra, drive to Darjeeling (around 3 hours) and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the town, visiting attractions like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Peace Pagoda.

Day 2: Wake up early to catch the sunrise from Tiger Hill, and then spend the day exploring more of Darjeeling, perhaps taking a stroll along the Mall Road and visiting the Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Day 3: After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (around 2 hours). Visit the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery, Deolo Hill, and the Cactus Nursery. In the evening, return to Darjeeling for the night.

Day 4: Depart Darjeeling and return to Bagdogra for your flight back to Kolkata.

Puri and Konark Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Take an early morning train from Kolkata to Puri (around 8 hours). Check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the beach and the Jagannath Temple.

Day 2: Visit the Konark Sun Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also visit the Ramachandi Temple and the Chandrabhaga Beach.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring Puri, including the beach, the Jagannath Temple, and the Puri Beach Market.

Day 4: Depart Puri and return to Kolkata by train.

Sundarbans National Park Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Take an early morning train from Kolkata to Canning (around 2 hours). From Canning, drive to Godkhali (around 1 hour) and board a boat to the Sundarbans. Spend the day exploring the mangroves and wildlife of the Sundarbans.

Day 2: Continue your exploration of the Sundarbans, visiting places like Sajnekhali Watch Tower and Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower.

Day 3: Visit the Dobanki Watch Tower and enjoy a nature walk. You can also visit the crocodile breeding farm and the Pirkhali Village.

Day 4: Depart the Sundarbans and return to Kolkata by train.

There are many exciting destinations within a short distance of Chennai that would make for a great 4-day weekend trip. Here's one itinerary that you could follow:

Day 1: Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry

Start early in the morning and drive to Mahabalipuram, which is about 60 km from Chennai. Explore the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and the Arjuna's Penance.

After that, head to Pondicherry, which is about 100 km from Mahabalipuram. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the French Quarter and the Promenade Beach.

Day 2: Pondicherry

Start the day with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the nearby Auroville. Learn about the philosophy and teachings of Sri Aurobindo and explore the beautiful gardens and buildings of the ashram.

Spend the afternoon exploring the rest of Pondicherry, including the botanical gardens, the Bharati Park, and the Goubert Avenue.

Day 3: Kanchipuram and Vellore

Drive to Kanchipuram, which is about 70 km from Pondicherry. Kanchipuram is famous for its temples, so start by visiting the Kailasanathar Temple, the Ekambareswarar Temple, and the Varadaraja Perumal Temple.

After lunch, head to Vellore, which is about 70 km from Kanchipuram. Visit the Vellore Fort and the Jalakandeswarar Temple, which are both located within the fort.

Day 4: Chennai

Head back to Chennai and spend the day exploring the city's many attractions. Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, the Fort St. George, and the Government Museum. In the evening, head to Marina Beach for a sunset stroll.

(All the above-mentioned itineraries have been generated by ChatGPT)

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ChatGPT has your travel plans sorted for this long weekend. Check out the itineraries - India Today

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday said Akhand Bharat was the undisputed truth and a divided Bharat was a nightmare.

Mr. Bhagwat said the separated parts of Bharat would unite one day. The RSS chief said Pakistan was unhappy as it got separated from India, and it would, one day, be merged into Akhand Bharat.

I am not saying that India should attack Pakistan, but there will be a day when people will think of doing it. [becoming part of Akhand Bharat] And it will happen, Mr. Bhagwat said. He was speaking at a function in Bhopal to mark the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and revolutionary Hemu Kalani.

Speaking to the gathering of people hailing from the Sindhi community, Mr. Bhagwat said, When you were there, it was Bharat only. When you were asked to chose one Bharat, you left that Bharat to come to this Bharat ... If someone asks one day what that piece of land was before 1947, we have to tell that it was Bharat. He added that there was a time when that part of land used to witness recitation of the Vedas.

Mr. Bhagwat stressed that Indians had a target to rejoin all the parts of India that were divided in the past. A broken body cannot survive, it has to be fixed...We can leave that part of India but can never forget our relation which is attached with hearts, he added.

Also Read | India a Hindu Rashtra, Akhand Bharat will come true, says Yogi Adityanath

According to the RSS, Akhand Bharat is a concept of an undivided country with parts of present day Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Aksai Chin, Tibet and Bhutan in it.

Maintaining that the Partition of the country was artificial, Mr. Bhagwat said, One man was brought to divide us. He knew nothing and had only three months to do the task. When he was going back after completing the task, he said he wasnt an expert in the task and he knew nothing about how to go about it.

Quoting Sri Aurobindo, the RSS chief said that this (partition) had to go. He said that even people of Pakistan were saying that it was a mistake.

He said that the rigid people who got separated from India, leaving their tradition and culture, forgetting their ancestors, were unhappy since the beginning.

Those who left that land and came to India again stood on their feet with courage. They are not sad. Those who are in that land are unhappy because they are living an artificial life, he said.

Also Read | Minority community leaders urge RSS chief to speak more against attacks on Muslims

Everyone should adopt a true way of life and if a mistake has happened in the past, what is wrong in talking about correcting it, he said.

This is the reason why I ask you to be prepared. I dont know how and when it will happen, he said, adding that Indian culture taught people to give a befitting reply in self-defence.

Logo ke hi maan me aayega, ho jayega (people will only think about it and do it), Mr. Bhagwat said.

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Akhand Bharat the undisputed truth, says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat - The Hindu

Pondicherry or Goa? Best places for a graduation trip - Luxebook Pondicherry or Goa? Best places for a graduation trip - Luxebook Jade CrastoFor those who are about to graduate from college or university, your life as a student is about to come to an end, but not the adventures with your friends! The end of college is characterised by farewell parties, poignant lunches, job placements, vows to keep in touch, and a tremendous anticipation of the unknown future, one wonders how to continue without getting to meet that beautiful group of friends every single day. After all, everyones lives are hectic, especially if youre in different parts of the world. If you find yourself in this situation, we recommend that you take advantage of your spare time after graduation to go on one crazy vacation with your besties.PondicherryPhoto Courtesy: PexelsPondicherry (Pudducherry) is a beach-side union territory in Tamil Nadu that can be considered the love child of French and Indian cultures. Pondicherry was a French colony until 1954. Its distinctive charm is now enhanced by the historic Bougainvillea-draped French-style residences, churches, and even recently built French-style stores, brightly coloured cafs, and restaurants. Whether you visit areas like the Rock Beach, Pondicherry Beach, Serenity Beach, or the Botanical Gardens in this French capital of India, you will undoubtedly feel like you are somewhere else. And, in the same vein, the best way to explore Pondicherry is to go to Auroville and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, where people from all over the globe come to seek spirituality with yoga and meditation.GoaPhoto Courtesy: PexelsGoa, the smallest state in India and unlike any other is located on the western coast and is renowned for its unending beaches, fantastic nightlife, diverse seafood, and world-heritage-listed architecture. Goa is the go-to place for youngsters who have just finished their stressful examinations. Head to North Goa, the party hub, where youll find a variety of clubs, restaurants and bars thatll keep you up all night. If you dont want to party and simply wish to unwind and relax, then you must visit the South of Goa which isnt densely populated with tourists. Youll find some of the best beaches and lagoons in the south.KasolPhoto Courtesy: PexelsKasol is a charming Himachal hamlet located on the banks of the Parvati River. Kasol, sometimes dubbed as the Amsterdam of India, is a tourist destination that is quickly gaining popularity as a popular centre for trekkers, hikers and nature enthusiasts. The valley is located 23 km from Bhuntar and near the religious town of Manikaran, making it one of the greatest sites in the nation to sit back and relax while admiring the scenery of snow-capped mountains, pine trees, and tranquil rivers. Kasol is well-known for its hiking paths, including hikes to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. Visit the village of Malana to get a true sense of the culture in this region. Malana, located a few kilometres from Kasol, is a little town populated by people who reside in self-imposed solitude. Yet, the area has many beautiful attractions and is commonly referred to as Little Greece.AndamanPhoto Courtesy: PexelsAndaman & Nicobar Islands is a small piece of paradise situated roughly 1,400 kilometres away from the east coast of mainland India, complete with turquoise blue ocean beaches and a little of history. Port Blair, the union territorys capital, has a significant airport and seaport that connects it to the rest of the country and several tourist islands by multiple daily ferries. The pristine sandy beaches and good diving opportunities on Havelock and Neil Islands make them popular with vacationers. Havelock Island is the largest and most populous of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The lovely Radhanagar Beach is located on Havelocks southern shore, while the blue splendour of Vijayanagar Beach is located on the islands eastern coast. Neil Islands three sandy beaches, Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, and Lakshmanpur Beach, are perhaps its most charming characteristic. Three popular beaches for watersports are North Bay Island in Port Blair, Elephant Beach on Havelock Island, and Bharatpur Beach on Neil Island. Elephant beach and Kalapather beach are two additional beaches with spectacular sunrises and sunsets.Mcleodganj, Himachal PradeshPhoto Courtesy: PexelsMcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh is a renowned tourist destination due to its Tibetan culture, nature hikes, greenery, historic temples and monasteries, and British influence. It is located on the outskirts of Dharamshala in the Kangra district. The town, nestled among breathtaking hills and lush vegetation, has one of the most captivating sceneries in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh and draws a large number of tourists throughout the year. The hilly topography with forests of Oak, Rhododendron, andDeodarmakes Mcleodganj a popular trekking destination, with the Triund Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, and Thatharana Trek among the most popular. Dharamsala, Dharamkot, Bhagsu Nag, and Kangra are some of the nearest towns to Mcleodganj. The Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual head Dalai Lama dwells, are two of Indias most prominent and spiritually significant monasteries.InternationalDubai

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Pondicherry or Goa? Best places for a graduation trip - Luxebook