As the nation observes the birth anniversary of great freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma, here is a story on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an emotional and memorable tribute to the great patriot and revolutionary.
Shyamji Krishna Varma, a Gujarat-born freedom fighter played pivotal role in India’s struggle for Independence. Besides being a noted scholar in Sanskrit and other Indian languages, he founded the India House in London, which served as a leading centre of Indian nationalism outside the country, before Independence.
Shyamji Krishna Varma passed away in 1930, holding on to the hope that his ashes would return to a free and Independent India. However, his ‘last wish’ was realized only after five decades of India attaining freedom from colonial rule.
The dream was realized in August 2003, after Narendra Modi took over as Gujarat Chief Minister. The then Gujarat CM brought his ashes back from Geneva, honouring the freedom fighter’s final request.
On 22nd August 2003, PM Modi reached St. George’s cemetery in Geneva, Switzerland, to collect Shyamji Krishna Varma’s ashes from the Ville de Genève and the Swiss government, fulfilling this patriot’s long-held wish.
Few years later, in 2010, PM Modi also inaugurated the Kranti Peeth memorial in Mandvi, replicating the India House in London, housing statues of Shyam ji and his wife, alongside their ashes.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi paid tributes to the revolutionary freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma on his birth anniversary today. In a social media post, PM Modi also highlighted Shyamji Krishna Varma’s unwavering spirit and dedication to the nation, emphasising that his legacy will continue to inspire generations.
He said that Shyamji Krishna Varma’s revolutionary actions infused remarkable strength into the resolve for the country’s independence.
“Hundreds of salutations to the great freedom fighter and brave son of Mother India, Shyamji Krishna Verma, on his birth anniversary. With his revolutionary steps, he infused amazing power in the resolve for the independence of the country. His dedication and spirit of service towards the nation will continue to inspire every generation,” PM Modi said in a post on X.
–IANS
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Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has positioned himself as a strong proponent of Sanatana Dharma during a recent gathering in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. Addressing a large audience after performing rituals at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, Kalyan vehemently criticized pseudo-secular critics, declaring himself an unapologetic Sanatani Hindu. He made a pointed remark against Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who had compared Sanatana Dharma to a virus, asserting, “You cannot wipe out Sanatana Dharma. If anyone tries, they will be wiped out.”
On 3 October 2024, Kalyan unveiled the Varahi Declaration, which he described as more than a political initiative; it is a mission aimed at defending the cultural and religious heritage of Andhra Pradesh. He stated that the Varahi campaign began 14 months ago andrepresents a call to action for millions who wish to establish a “Sanatana Dharma Raksha Board” to protect their beliefs.
Key Proposals Of the Varahi Declaration
Uniform Application of Secularism: The declaration stresses that secularism should be applied uniformly to ensure equal protection for all religions.
National Legislation: A call for a national act that specifically defends Sanatana Dharma against actions or statements that harm its core beliefs, ensuring uniform enforcement throughout India.
Sanatana Dharma Protection Boards:Establishment ofthese boards at both national and state levels to implement the act and safeguard the faith’s interests.
Budget Allocations: Annual budgets should be allocated to support these boards and their activities, ensuring they have adequate resources.
Disengagement from Hate: The declaration advocates for disengagement from individuals or groups that promote hatred or defame Sanatana Dharma.
Sanatana Dharma Certification: Introduction of certification to ensure the purity and authenticity of materials used in temple rituals, such as offerings and prasadam.
Broader Role of Temples: Kalyan envisions temples evolving into centers of art, education, economy, and environmental conservation, contributing to the broader cultural and social welfare of society.
Varahi Declaration
1. Secularism must be upheld in a manner that ensures uniform response to any threat or harm caused to any religion or faith.
2. A strong national Act is required to protect Sanatana Dharma and prevent actions that harm its beliefs. This Act should be enacted… pic.twitter.com/b0wqKLTzyb
Kalyan’s speech reflects a call to action for the protection of Sanatana Dharma, urging Hindus to unite against perceived attacks while also advocating for respect for all faiths. This declaration comes in the wake of rising controversies surrounding Sanatana Dharma and aims to foster a collective voice among its adherents.
Kodaikanal police have arrested two individuals, Mohammad Azharuddin (36) and Marudupandi (35), for allegedly stealing cows from a residence and selling them for meat in the Kodaikanal area of Dindigul district. The arrests were made following a complaint from a local resident, Chelladurai, who reported the disappearance of his cow.
Residents in and around Kodaikanal had expressed concerns over the frequent theft of cows they had been bringing up as domestic animals, prompting multiple complaints to the police. In response, a special police team was formed to investigate the matter. Utilizing CCTV footage, authorities discovered Azharuddin and Marudupandi leading the stolen cow by its rope.
Further investigation revealed that both suspects, who own beef shops, had been involved in smuggling and slaughtering the stolen cows for meat in the surrounding areas. The police have launched an ongoing investigation into the case, focusing on uncovering the full extent of their operations.
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In a remarkable effort towards preserving ancient heritage, a group of youths from Thanjavur have successfully restored a thousand-year-old Shiva Lingam in the Choladharam area near Srimushnam, Cuddalore district. The restoration was part of a broader initiative led by the Aran Pani Trust, which is focused on reviving and protecting historic Shiva Lingams across Tamil Nadu.
The ancient Shiva Lingam, believed to date back over a millennium, was found buried deep in the soil amidst trees before the dedicated team from Thanjavur restored it. The work by Aran Pani Trust has been hailed as a significant contribution to preserving Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural and religious history.
Efforts like this underscore the importance of community participation in conserving historical monuments as local volunteers and organizations come together to protect their heritage for future generations. The restoration of this Shiva Lingam has drawn appreciation from local devotees and heritage enthusiasts, highlighting the ongoing efforts to revive ancient temples and sacred sites in the region.
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The Supreme Court, on 4 October 2024, ordered the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe allegations that substandard ghee containing animal fat was used in the preparation of laddus at the revered Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. The allegations, raised by the Andhra Pradesh government under N Chandrababu Naidu, claimed that the previous government led by the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu (YSR) Congress Party was responsible for the use of the tainted ghee.
A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan directed that the SIT would consist of two officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), two from the Andhra Pradesh State Police, and one senior officer from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The probe will be conducted under the supervision of the CBI director.
“In order to assuage the feelings of crores of people, we find that an investigation by an independent SIT consisting of representatives from the State police, CBI, and FSSAI shall be done,” the Court said.
The SIT previously appointed by the state government will be replaced by this new team, with appointments made by the respective heads of CBI and FSSAI. The Court emphasized that its order should not be viewed as a reflection on the current state-appointed SIT, stating, “We clarify that our order should not be construed as a reflection on the independence and fairness of the members of the state SIT. We have constituted the committee only to assuage the feelings of crores of people having faith in the deity.”
The hearing was in response to four petitions seeking an independent investigation into the serious allegations. Among the petitioners were former MP Dr. Subramanian Swamy, YSR Congress Party leader and former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) chairperson YV Subba Reddy, historian Vikram Sampath, Vedic speaker Dushyanth Sridhar, and news anchor Suresh Chavhanke.
During previous hearings, the Court expressed concern over Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s public statements, which accused the YSR Congress Party of using animal fat in the laddus, despite the lack of conclusive evidence. The Court questioned the CM’s decision to go public without definitive proof, with Justice Gavai stating that the claims “should not have been made prematurely.”
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Central government, supported the formation of an independent SIT. “If there is any truth in the allegations, it is unacceptable. The sentiments of devotees are spread across the country. Let it be supervised by a senior officer from a Central government force. That will inspire confidence,” he suggested.
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Andhra Pradesh government, defended the state’s investigation, stating, “We wish to go ahead with the SIT. Any officer of the court’s choice can be added. There can be no allegation against the SIT. We cannot go by some newspaper report.”
However, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing YV Subba Reddy, argued that Chief Minister Naidu’s statements had already compromised the integrity of the investigation. “An impartial independent investigation needs to be ordered,” Sibal said.
The Court underscored the gravity of the allegations, noting the widespread faith in the temple. “Politics is taking over the faith of crores of people,” remarked Solicitor General Mehta, as the Court moved to form the new SIT.
The SIT will now begin its investigation, and the Court will oversee its progress to ensure impartiality and fairness. The case continues to stir political tensions between the ruling and opposition parties in Andhra Pradesh, with both sides trading accusations over the issue.
This move by the Supreme Court marks a significant step toward addressing the concerns of millions of devotees and ensuring that the sanctity of one of India’s most revered temples is upheld.
Himachal Pradesh residents will now be taxed based on the number of toilets in their homes, as per a recent notice issued by the Congress government, which is grappling with a financial crisis.
The Himachal government’s announcement, tied to the sewerage and water bills, states that urban residents must pay ₹25 tax for each toilet seat installed in their homes. This additional charge will be added to the Jal Shakti department’s account along with the sewage bill.
According to the government, 30% of the water bill will be allocated to sewage charges. Households using private water supplies but relying on the government’s sewage system will also need to pay ₹25 per toilet each month. The department has instructed all divisional officers to enforce this rule.
Previously, water bills were not issued in Himachal Pradesh. The BJP had promised free water if it came to power. However, under the Congress government, a monthly water charge of ₹100 per connection has been introduced starting from October.
Urban residents are expected to be most impacted by this new tax, as homes with multiple bathrooms will face higher costs for each toilet seat.
With five municipal corporations, 29 municipalities, and 17 nagar panchayats, Himachal Pradesh is home to nearly 10 lakh people, meaning a substantial portion of the population will be affected by this new tax policy.’
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed shock at the development saying that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi took efforts to build toilets as part of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the Congress is taxing people for toilets.
Unbelievable, if true!
Whilst PM @narendramodi ji, builds Swachhata as a people’s movement, here is @INCIndia taxing people for toilets! Shame that they didn’t provide good sanitation during their time, but this step will shame the country! https://t.co/EPTmOmyufM
In a heated political exchange, senior BJP leader and former Governor of Telangana Tamilisai Soundararajan questioned the seriousness of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) chief Thol Thirumavalavan after his party cadre showed up drunk and created a scene at an anti-alcohol conference that VCK organised on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
Tamilisai questioned the sincerity of Thirumavalavan’s stance on alcohol prohibition, accusing him of political opportunism while pointing out that he paid tribute to K Kamaraj instead of Gandhi. The criticism escalated into a war of words, with Thirumavalavan firing back in his speech. The BJP, in turn, demanded a public apology for what they saw as the VCK chief’s personal attack on Soundararajan.
VCK Anti-Alcohol Conference
VCK conducted a women’s conference on alcohol and drug addiction on 2 October 2024 in Ulundurpettai, Kallakurichi, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday. Party leader Thol Thirumavalavan inaugurated the conference by giving a speech on the importance of alcohol prohibition.
However, the event soon became a political battleground after senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan criticized Thirumavalavan’s participation in the conference. Soundararajan, a former Governor of Telangana and Puducherry, questioned the sincerity of the event, claiming there was no real support for the anti-liquor movement even within VCK.
Soundararajan Lashes Out At VCK Chief
Soundararajan also pointed out that Thirumavalavan had paid tribute to Kamaraj at a memorial instead of Mahatma Gandhi on the latter’s birth anniversary. She remarked, “Thirumavalavan went to pay tribute to Kamaraj instead of Gandhi. Perhaps he avoided it due to a guilty conscience that his party’s policies don’t align with Gandhi’s principles.”
Thirumavalavan Response
In response, Thirumavalavan fired back during his speech at the conference, explaining that he had intended to pay tribute to Gandhi but could not due to the Governor’s visit. “The police informed me that I could only pay my respects to Gandhi after the Governor had done so. Since the conference was about to start, I placed the garland meant for Gandhi on Kamaraj’s statue and left,” Thirumavalavan clarified.
However, he didn’t stop there, accusing Soundararajan of insinuating about his habits. “What Tamilisai is trying to say is that Thirumavalavan is a man who can open a bottle every day. Sister Tamilisai, I hope you don’t drink. I hope you don’t have a drinking habit. Like you, I don’t have that habit,” he added pointedly.
This statement triggered a strong reaction from BJP leaders, with the party demanding a public apology from Thirumavalavan for what they saw as an insult to Tamilisai and the Tamil community at large. Soundararajan, visibly upset, responded to the media, saying, “I never expected Thirumavalavan to stoop so low. I have never made any personal attacks in my 25 years of political life. I always believed in advancing civilized politics, but what he said is a black spot on his political career.”
She continued, “I criticized Thirumavalavan for bringing up the issue of alcohol prohibition now, for political reasons, despite having been in an alliance with the DMK for so long without pushing for this policy. I never made a personal attack, but he has responded with a vicious, unwarranted personal attack against me. He should answer to all the women of Tamil Nadu for his words.”
Thirumavalavan, who visited the Gandhi Mandapam this morning, paid tribute to Kamaraj instead of paying respects to Gandhi’s statue. “I don’t know why Thirumavalavan, who is also holding an anti-liquor conference, avoided Gandhi,” she said.
Responding to the comments made by Thirumavalavan targeted at her, Tamilisai Soundararajan who was taking part in the membership recruitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party in various districts of Tamil Nadu said, “In my political life, I didn’t expect Thirumavalavan to fall so low. He did not garland the Gandhi statue yesterday (2 October 2024) because of a change in principles and ideology. All these days you did not bring in the alcohol ban policy. I only said that for his selfish interest, he is bringing in the alcohol ban policy. I have never made a personal attack in my 25 years of political career. I am committed to advancing civilized politics. But yesterday Thirumavalavan spoke derogatorily, he can say he doesn’t drink. How can he say that about someone else? It is a very bad attack and that too on someone like me. He has expressed his opinion very badly. I did not expect this from him. I thought he was a civilised politician. I have avoided attacks on opposition and individuals. If I said it was not the policy, just say it is now your policy and be done with it. I am not affected by this but this shows how you think of other political leaders. I did not expect this from him. I did not say he is drinking daily but he did, he said she spoke as if I was opening the bottle daily. Why is he saying things I didn’t say? But Thirumavalavan has made a vicious attack on someone like me. I thought Thirumavalavan was a civilized politician. I did not expect this from him. He should be the answer to all the women in Tamil Nadu,” she said.
She added, “He has been an MP all these years, Gandhi’s principles are not only limited to the alcohol ban, but it also includes Ahimsa. Who taught his cadre to hit back if someone hit them? I did not think of any of this and yet he speaks about what I thought. I do not understand why he is feeling guilty. I did not expect this from him. This is a black mark in his political career.”
In a message to his cadres, popular actor and now part-time politician Vijay addressed members of his Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam, urging them to work tirelessly for the people of Tamil Nadu as the party gears up for its first state conference.
The actor’s letter stated that their ultimate goal is to address the basic needs of Tamil Nadu’s citizens and to bring about change through both political and legal avenues.
“This has been a long-standing ambition burning within me,” Vijay wrote, encouraging his supporters to take pride in the upcoming state conference, which he described as a “festival of political principles” and a “victory policy festival.” He was confident the event would showcase the party’s strength and growing influence in the state’s political landscape.
Vijay urged cadres to approach their political work with speed and caution, stressing the importance of prudence and strategy in their efforts. He further mentioned that committee heads for the conference and in-charges for assembly constituencies would be announced soon, asking his supporters to continue their efforts with determination and inspiration.
As an advice to his cadres, he said that just like how a family respects only a responsible man, a nation will respect only a responsible citizen. Vijay employed wordplay with word ‘kudimagangal’ (Tamil word for citizens but in a literal sense its meaning turns out to be drinkers) to drive home the point that drinking and making merry at the conference should be avoided.
“Only role models would be hailed by people. Our cadres should strive to be role models is my wish. The people of this country should realize that our cadres function with military discipline from the start of the conference preparations to the conference day participation.”, he said.
Vijay’s move into politics has been closely watched by political observers, and his growing influence, particularly among young voters, has made headlines across the state. The upcoming state conference is expected to be a significant event in solidifying his political presence.
The US government-linked International Republican Institute formed an army of student protesters, NGOs, LGBTQ influencers & rappers to rally in Bangladesh and remove Sheikh Hasina. Was it all because she denied the US a military base? Let’s explore.
The Gray Zone has seen leaked files that indicate the International Republican Institute cooperated with the US govt to create a “power shift” in Bangladesh – culminating in the toppling of elected PM Sheikh Hasina.
Footage showed students storming the presidential palace and celebrating the end of what Western media had dubbed as fascism in Dhaka. Then came the interim PM.
Muhammad Yunus, a Clinton Global Initiative fellow and Nobel Prize winner with a sketchy past in micro-lending, was now the leader. The US laughed off allegations it had any hand in his appointment or Sheikh Hasina’s ousting.
And then, last week, Yunus stood on stage next to Bill Clinton and revealed to the world the colour revolution was a “meticulously designed” plan that took a long time.
The IRI, as the Gray Zone reveals, has been operating in Bangladesh since the early 2000s.
In documents marked “confidential and/or privileged,” it’s claimed the IRI spent millions of dollars coaching opposition parties and creating a regime-change network of “urban youth” influencers – giving them the online tools.
The outlet stresses that the 🇺🇸 GOP-run subsidiary has fueled regime change operations globally since its creation by CIA Director William Casey some four decades ago.
Flashback to 2018, when Dhaka’s streets were mobbed by thousands demanding stricter road safety laws. The govt caved.
It provided a key training ground, it’s claimed, with student demonstrations swelling after the taste of victory. While trivial at the time, months and years later it stoked riots and a violent clampdown by police.
Analysts have linked the protests to online bot armies and social media movements – exactly what IRI stresses is important for a power shift.
In 2019, the IRI reportedly identified 170 activists in a report given to the US State Dept. It also mentions Hasina’s “lopsided” victory and that its campaign was being ramped up, partly due to the Opposition BNP failing to mobilise support.
A separate internal report titled, “Social Media, Protest, and Reform in Bangladesh’s Digital Era” gave an idea of what was to come, the Gray Zone writes: “Moving forward, IRI intends to expand its work with college students across the country.”
IRI used transgender events, music festivals, TV, and much more.
The ground army and the message had been created. All that was left was to storm the castle.
In a thunderous speech, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and head of Jana Sena Party Pawan Kalyan issued a veiled but stern warning to DMK scion and Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, saying that those who think of eradicating Sanatana Dharma will get eradicated.
Addressing a gathering at Tirupati after launching the Varahi Declaration, Pawan Kalyan said in Tamil, “A young leader from the neighbouring state had said Sanatana Dharma is like a virus which needs to be eradicated. Many people have said so. You’re not the first one or the last. Many more are going to come. People like you have come and gone. Nothing will happen to Sanatana Dharma. I’m telling you. I’m saying this after taking the blessings of Perumal. You can’t do anything. I don’t know how to say this Telugu poem in Tamil, but if possible, you (Udhayanidhi Stalin) try translating in Tamil and listen.” and went on to read a poem in Telugu that effectively conveys that those who seek to destroy Sanatana Dharma will get destroyed.
People who stand for Sanatana Dharma in Tamil Nadu translate this and tell it to the person who said, “Sanatana Dharma is a virus.” Pawan Kalyan said in an obvious reference to Udhayanidhi Stalin.
If anyone tries to wipe out Santana Dharma, you will be wiped out: Pawan Kalyan Garu, India need this type of Leader 🔥 pic.twitter.com/629cMhYGRU
Pawan Kalyan also said, “I will respect Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and all the other Dharmas. But.. I am an unapologetic Sanatani Hindu. Let me be very clear to you guys.”
He also targeted Rahul Gandhi for his “naach gaana” comment disparaging the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathishtha event.
“The Hon’ble Opposition Leader, Shri Rahul Gandhi, says Ayodhya ceremony when he compares it to ‘naach gaana sabha’, none of the Sanatani Hindus should get hurt. We’ve to be happy about it. And you want the votes of all the Sanatani Hindus to get into power, to be a political leader, to be in the Opposition. And you want all the votes of Sanatani Hindus. But you don’t respect Lord Rama. You might hate Modi ji. You might hate us. But don’t you guys dare to talk about Lord Sri Rama.
Pawan Kalyan rips apart Rahul Gandhi over his comments on Bhagwan Ram .. you need Hindu votes to come to power but you don’t respect Bhagwan Ram .. don’t dare to disrespect him 🔥 pic.twitter.com/YPMUVgZXtv
