National

Manipur Observes a Subdued Holi Amidst Ethnic Violence

Published

1 year ago

March 15, 2025

Holi, one of the most significant annual festivals in Manipur, was celebrated on Friday by the majority Meitei community in a subdued manner due to ongoing ethnic violence in the state for over 22 months. Known as Yaoshang, this festival is traditionally observed for five days and officially commenced on Friday evening with the ceremonial burning of straw huts at the renowned Shri Govindaji temple complex in Palace Compound and several other locations.

This year, as in the past two years, the festival of colors was limited to religious observances and community sports activities amidst the prevailing ethnic tensions. In Mantripukhri, a gathering of people marked the occasion with traditional rituals and music. However, due to concerns over law and order, civil societies refrained from organizing entertainment events, including cultural dances.

A Meitei priest noted that besides the ethnic strife, thousands of displaced individuals have been residing in relief camps since May 2023, preventing them from organizing festival-related activities.

Manipur is renowned for its diverse sports and cultural heritage. Unlike other parts of India where Holi is celebrated predominantly through the playful throwing of colors, Manipur’s celebration, known as Yaoshang, incorporates sporting events, making it a unique experience. This festival, heralding the arrival of spring, is one of the state’s most eagerly awaited five-day events.

The sports meets during Yaoshang feature a variety of activities such as long marathons, half marathons, athletics, football matches, and indoor games, welcoming participants from young children to senior citizens, thus fostering a dynamic and competitive atmosphere.

As part of the Yaoshang festivities, children walk through their neighborhoods, offering blessings to adults in exchange for money.

Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh made his first public appearance after resigning on February 9, joining the Holi and Yaoshang celebrations. He participated in the lighting of the traditional Holi pyre, a significant moment that symbolizes the festival’s start in the state. His presence uplifted the festive spirit, garnering cheers from those in attendance.

In a post on X, the former Chief Minister extended his greetings to the people of Manipur, stating: “Heartiest greetings to the people of Manipur on the joyous occasion of Yaoshang. This festival of colors and harmony symbolizes unity, joy, and the rich cultural heritage of our state. May the celebrations bring happiness, good health, and prosperity to all. Wishing everyone a safe and blessed Yaoshang.”

National

Ex-IAS Officer Dhanendra Kumar Dies in Delhi House Fire

Published

1 week ago

May 29, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Former IAS officer and the first chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Dhanendra Kumar, died after a fire broke out at his house in Delhi’s Hauz Khas area on Thursday night. He was 80.

According to police, the fire was suspected to have started after an air conditioner blast inside the house. At the time of the incident, five people, including family members and domestic staff, were present in the house.

Firefighters and police teams rushed to the spot and rescued the people trapped inside. Dhanendra Kumar and his son were taken to a nearby hospital. Kumar died during treatment due to smoke inhalation. His son suffered injuries and is now out of danger.

Police said no foul play is suspected in the incident. The house was badly damaged in the fire.

Dhanendra Kumar was a 1968 batch IAS officer. During his long career, he served in several important positions in the central and Haryana governments. He worked in ministries such as Defence, Road Transport, and Culture.

He also served as the first chairman of the Competition Commission of India from 2009 to 2011. He played an important role in strengthening competition laws and economic reforms in the country.

Even after retirement, he remained active in public policy and corporate affairs.

National

Woman Found Dead Six Months after Marriage

Published

2 weeks ago

May 27, 2026

Namma Kudla

Lucknow: A young woman was found hanging at her in-laws’ house just six months after her marriage in Lucknow. The deceased has been identified as Shweta Singh.

According to her family, Shweta married Bhupendra Singh on November 22, 2025. Her father, Umesh Kumar Singh, alleged that her husband and his family harassed her regularly for dowry and demanded a car. He also claimed that Shweta faced mental torture from her husband and in-laws after marriage.

The incident took place at her in-laws’ house in the Thakurganj area of Lucknow. Shweta was rushed to a hospital, but doctors declared her dead.

Her parents suspect murder and alleged that the family tried to present the death as suicide by hanging the body. Based on the complaint, police registered a case against Shweta’s husband and his family under Sections 80 and 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Dowry Prohibition Act.

Police said the accused family members are absconding, and a search operation is underway. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and further action will be taken after the report arrives.

National

Army Helicopter Crashes In Ladakh, All Three Officers Injured But Safe

Published

2 weeks ago

May 23, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: Three Indian Army officers survived after their helicopter crashed in the Tangste region near Leh in Ladakh. The accident took place on May 20. Officials confirmed the incident on Friday.

The helicopter belonged to the Army’s ageing Cheetah fleet. A Lieutenant Colonel and a Major were flying the chopper. Major General Sachin Mehta, General Officer Commanding of the 3rd Infantry Division, was travelling as a passenger.

All three officers suffered injuries in the crash. However, they survived the accident in the difficult mountainous region. A selfie clicked by Major General Mehta after the crash has now gone viral on social media. The photo showed the three officers sitting on rocks near the badly damaged helicopter.

Many people called their survival a miracle because of the harsh terrain and the risks involved in flying the old Cheetah helicopters in high-altitude areas.

The Indian Army has ordered an official inquiry to find out the reason behind the crash.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of the Cheetah helicopters. These helicopters were introduced in the 1970s and have been used for decades in difficult operations, including Operation Meghdoot in Siachen Glacier in 1984.

In recent years, several accidents involving the Cheetah fleet have been reported. The helicopters are now being slowly replaced by the indigenous Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

The Army has reportedly ordered six limited-series-production LUHs. The new helicopters can fly at a top speed of 220 kmph and have an operational range of 350 km.

Despite its age, the Cheetah helicopter is still considered one of the best helicopters for high-altitude flying operations.