Padma Awards 2026: Full List, Backgrounds and Significance of Recipients
On January 25, 2026, the Government of India announced the Padma Awards 2026, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions across public life and diverse fields. The list was released on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, continuing a tradition of celebrating excellence and service that enriches the social, cultural and developmental fabric of India. The awards, which were instituted in 1954, are conferred by the President of India, and are announced annually on Republic Day (26 January). They are classified into three broad categories — Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushanand Padma Shri — ranked in descending order of prestige, after the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. For 2026, a total of 131 Padma Awards were approved, comprising 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. Among the awardees are notable figures from art and cinema, public affairs, sports, science, social service, education, medicine and literature. The list includes 19 women, six foreign/NRI/PIO/OCI recipients, and 16 posthumous awards. Padma Vibhushan 2026: Exceptional and Distinguished ServiceThe Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award of India, presented for “exceptional and distinguished service” in any field. Dharmendra Singh Deol (Posthumous) – ArtVeteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, often called the “He-Man” of Indian cinema, was honoured posthumously for his unparalleled legacy in Hindi film, spanning over six decades with more than 300 films that shaped Indian popular culture. K T Thomas – Public AffairsJustice K T Thomas served on the Supreme Court of India from 1995 to 2002 and was instrumental in major judicial decisions and legal reforms that shaped Indian constitutional jurisprudence. N Rajam – ArtRenowned violinist N Rajam is celebrated for bridging Hindustani and Carnatic classical music traditions. A former professor and cultural ambassador, her global influence on Indian classical music spans decades. P Narayanan – Literature and EducationWriter and journalist P Narayanan has made enduring contributions to literature and education, particularly through his editorial leadership and influence in regional and national discourse. V S Achuthanandan (Posthumous) – Public AffairsVeteran Kerala political leader V S Achuthanandan was honoured posthumously for his long public service and leadership in social and political arenas, especially in governance, transparency and anti-corruption efforts. Padma Bhushan 2026: Distinguished Service of High OrderThe Padma Bhushan recognises “distinguished service of high order” in any field, and this year’s list reflects contributions in arts, public affairs, commerce, sport and medicine. Alka Yagnik (Art) – Legendary playback singer whose voice defined generations of Bollywood music and delivered countless chart-topping songs. Bhagat Singh Koshyari (Public Affairs) – Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and Maharashtra Governor, recognised for his political and administrative service. Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaniswamy (Public Affairs) – Noted leader from Tamil Nadu contributing to public life and governance. Mammootty (Art) – Malayalam cinema icon with a distinguished acting career spanning decades, honoured for his contribution to Indian film. Nori Dattatreyudu (Medicine) – Eminent cancer specialist, internationally recognised for his work in oncology. Piyush Pandey (Posthumous) (Art & Media) – Influential advertising veteran and creative mind whose work shaped Indian media and communication. S K M Maeilanandhan (Trade & Industry) – Entrepreneur and industry leader known for his business acumen and contributions to economic growth. Shatavadhani R Ganesh (Literature & Education) – Celebrated scholar known for literary mastery and cultural scholarship. Shibu Soren (Posthumous) (Public Affairs) – Founder of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and key figure in the state’s formation movement, recognised posthumously. Uday Kotak (Trade & Industry) – Prominent banker and financial institution builder, founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank. V K Malhotra (Posthumous) (Public Affairs) – Veteran political leader honoured for lifelong service. Vellappally Natesan (Social Service) – Community leader and social service advocate from Kerala. Vijay Amritraj (Sports & International) – Tennis legend and global sports ambassador, acknowledged for enhancing India’s presence in international sport. Padma Shri 2026: Distinguished Service Across FieldsThe Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian honour in India, recognising “distinguished service in any field”. This year, 113 individuals received the Padma Shri, covering disciplines such as arts, sports, public service, science, literature, education, medicine, social work and agriculture. Notable awardees include:Rohit Sharma (Sports) – Captain of the Indian men’s cricket team and globally recognised for leading India to ICC titles. Harmanpreet Kaur (Sports) – Captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, instrumental in India’s international success. Savita Punia (Sports) – Star Indian hockey goalkeeper with standout international performances. R. Madhavan (Art) – Versatile actor and filmmaker known for acclaimed performances across Indian cinema. Anke Gowda (Literature & Education) – Former bus conductor who built India’s largest free-access librarywith over two million books, recognised for lifelong dedication to knowledge and literacy. Naresh Chandra Dev Varma (Literature & Education) – Tripuri writer known for contributions to Kokborok literature. Praveen Kumar (Sports) – Paralympic gold medallist whose achievements inspired national pride. The full Padma Shri roster includes awardees from every region of India, representing innovations and service in areas such as agriculture, archaeology, healthcare, traditional arts, community welfare and scientific research, highlighting the diversity and depth of Indian talent. Significance and National ImpactThe Padma Awards underscore India’s appreciation for individuals whose work exemplifies excellence, integrity and service. While Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan honour lifetime achievement and high-order service, the Padma Shri celebrates impactful contributions at national and grassroots levels. These awards not only recognise famous personalities but also highlight unsung heroes whose work fosters community development, preserves culture, advances science, and uplifts society. The 2026 list, with its balance of legendary figures, scholars, sports icons, social changemakers and grassroots achievers, illustrates the expanding scope of national recognition. From cinema legends and artistic luminaries to pioneering scientists, educators and community builders, the Padma Awards 2026 reflect India’s evolving narrative of excellence — one that honours both institutional achievements and everyday courage.
Parakram Diwas 2026: Remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Spirit of Fearless Nationalism
Parakram Diwas, observed every year on January 23, marks the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s most formidable freedom fighters. As India commemorates Parakram Diwas 2026, the day serves not merely as a tribute to a historical figure but as a reminder of an uncompromising vision of freedom, courage, and self-reliance that continues to resonate with the nation. Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhas Chandra Bose was a brilliant student who topped the Indian Civil Services (ICS) examination in England. Yet, in an act that defined his life, he resigned from the prestigious service to dedicate himself entirely to India’s freedom struggle. His decision reflected a core belief: freedom could not be negotiated; it had to be seized. Unlike many leaders of his time, Bose believed that political independence required direct action, not prolonged compromise. His ideological differences with the Indian National Congress leadership eventually led him to chart his own path, driven by urgency and revolutionary resolve. The Formation of the Indian National Army (INA) Netaji’s most defining contribution was the revival and leadership of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj). With the iconic call of “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,” Bose mobilised thousands of Indians across Southeast Asia to take up arms against British rule. The INA was not merely a military force, it was a symbol of defiance. It challenged the myth of British invincibility and ignited a powerful sense of national pride among Indians, including those serving within the British Indian Army. Historians widely agree that the INA trials played a significant role in accelerating the British decision to leave India. The word “Parakram” means courage, valour, and decisive action, qualities Bose embodied throughout his life. Parakram Diwas was officially instituted by the Government of India to honour these values and inspire citizens, especially the youth, to act with conviction in nation-building. In 2026, as India navigates complex global challenges, economic uncertainty, technological transformation, and geopolitical shifts, Netaji’s ideas on self-reliance, unity, and national confidence feel strikingly relevant. His emphasis on discipline, leadership, and sacrifice offers a counterpoint to complacency and apathy. Bose’s vision extended beyond the mere end of colonial rule. He envisioned a strong, socially just, and industrially advanced India, where freedom translated into dignity for every citizen. His advocacy for women’s participation in the freedom struggle, exemplified by the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, was far ahead of its time. Even today, his ideas provoke thought, about leadership that demands accountability, patriotism that requires action, and freedom that comes with responsibility. Parakram Diwas 2026: A Call to Reflect and Act Parakram Diwas is not just about remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose; it is about questioning ourselves. Are we bold enough to stand by our principles? Are we willing to act when circumstances demand courage? As India observes Parakram Diwas 2026, Netaji’s life stands as a reminder that history is shaped not by comfort, but by conviction. His legacy urges the nation to move forward, not cautiously, but courageously.
NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Retires After Nearly Three Decades of Spaceflight Service
NASA astronaut Sunita “Suni” Williams has formally retired after a distinguished 27-year career with the United States space agency, closing a chapter that spans some of the most significant phases of modern human spaceflight — from the Space Shuttle programme to the International Space Station (ISS) and the emergence of commercial crew missions. NASA announced her retirement in late 2025, acknowledging Williams’ extensive contributions to space exploration, mission leadership, astronaut training and long-duration human spaceflight operations. Early Life and Professional Background Born on September 19, 1965, Sunita Williams is of Indian-Slovenian descent and grew up in the United States. She graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a degree in physical science and later earned a master’s degree in engineering management from the Florida Institute of Technology. Before joining NASA, Williams served as a commissioned officer in the US Navy, where she became a helicopter pilot and later a test pilot, flying more than 30 aircraft types. Her operational and technical experience in aviation played a key role in her selection as an astronaut. Selection as NASA Astronaut Williams was selected as part of NASA’s 1998 astronaut class, one of the agency’s most competitive intakes. She underwent extensive training in spacecraft systems, robotics, spacewalks, Russian language and survival operations — a reflection of NASA’s increasingly international mission structure at the time. Her training coincided with the early assembly years of the International Space Station, positioning her at the forefront of long-duration orbital missions. Space Missions and Time in Orbit Over the course of her career, Williams flew on three space missions, spending a cumulative 608 days in space, making her one of NASA’s most experienced astronauts in terms of time spent in orbit. Her first spaceflight came in 2006 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-116), where she joined Expedition 14 and later Expedition 15 aboard the ISS. During this mission, she played a major role in station construction and systems maintenance. Williams returned to the ISS in 2012 as part of Expedition 32, later assuming command during Expedition 33, becoming one of the few astronauts — and one of the few women — to lead the orbiting laboratory. Record-Breaking Spacewalks One of Williams’ most notable achievements was her contribution to extravehicular activity (EVA). She conducted nine spacewalks, accumulating over 62 hours outside the ISS — a record for the most spacewalk time logged by a woman astronaut at the time. Her spacewalks involved complex tasks such as station assembly, repair of external systems, installation of scientific instruments and upgrades to power and cooling infrastructure critical to ISS operations. Leadership and Scientific Contributions As Commander of the ISS, Williams was responsible for crew safety, operational coordination, scientific mission execution and liaison with ground teams across multiple countries. Her tenure coincided with an intensive research phase aboard the station, with experiments spanning human physiology, material science, fluid dynamics and Earth observation. NASA officials have consistently cited her leadership style, operational discipline and technical proficiency as instrumental in sustaining continuous human presence aboard the ISS. Role in Commercial Crew and Training In the latter part of her career, Williams supported NASA’s transition toward commercial crew programmes, contributing to astronaut training, mission evaluations and operational readiness planning. Her experience across different spacecraft platforms made her a valuable resource during this transitional period. She was also involved in mentoring younger astronauts and supporting mission simulations, ensuring continuity of institutional knowledge within NASA’s astronaut corps. Retirement and Post-Service Benefits Williams retired at the age of 60, making her eligible for federal retirement benefits based on years of service. According to public disclosures, retired NASA astronauts receive pensions under standard US federal employee retirement systems, along with healthcare and post-service benefits. While she has not announced formal post-retirement plans, retired astronauts often continue contributing through education, public engagement, advisory roles, research collaborations and private-sector aerospace initiatives. Legacy and Impact Sunita Williams’ retirement marks the end of a career that bridged multiple eras of US space exploration. Her achievements place her among the most accomplished astronauts in NASA history, particularly in the areas of long-duration missions, spacewalk operations and international cooperation aboard the ISS. Her career has also held symbolic importance for aspiring scientists and engineers worldwide, particularly in India and among the global Indian diaspora, where her achievements have long been followed with pride. As NASA prepares for future missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond, Williams’ contributions remain embedded in the operational foundations of long-duration human spaceflight.
Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur Birth Anniversary: Nation Remembers Champion of Social Justice
Tributes were paid across Bihar and the country on the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur, one of India’s most influential socialist leaders and a key architect of social justice politics in the Hindi heartland. Political leaders, social organisations and citizens remembered Thakur’s enduring contribution to inclusive governance, backward class empowerment and ethical public life. Born on January 24, 1924, in Samastipur district of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most respected mass leaders of the state. His political life was shaped by the freedom movement, socialist ideology and a deep commitment to the upliftment of marginalised communities. He passed away in 1988, but his legacy continues to influence India’s political and social discourse decades later. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, leaders cutting across party lines highlighted Thakur’s role in institutionalising social justice policies at a time when such ideas faced strong resistance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national tributes, recalling Thakur’s simplicity, integrity and lifelong dedication to the poor and backward classes. In a message, the Prime Minister described him as a visionary leader who devoted his life to empowering the marginalised and strengthening democratic values. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with several senior state leaders, paid floral tributes at Karpoori Thakur’s memorial and emphasised that his policies laid the foundation for social equality in the state. Similar commemorative events were held in Patna, Samastipur and other parts of Bihar, with public meetings recalling his governance model and personal conduct in public office. Karpoori Thakur served as the Chief Minister of Bihar twice — first from 1970 to 1971 and again from 1977 to 1979. His tenure is particularly remembered for the implementation of reservations for backward classes in government jobs at the state level, a move that preceded and later informed national-level policy debates on affirmative action. His decision to include extremely backward classes within the reservation framework was considered path-breaking and remains central to Bihar’s social justice structure today. Often referred to as “Jan Nayak” (people’s leader), Karpoori Thakur was known for his austere lifestyle and incorruptible reputation. Despite holding high office, he lived simply and maintained close contact with grassroots workers and ordinary citizens. His refusal to accumulate personal wealth and his insistence on clean politics set him apart in an era marked by increasing political competition and power struggles. In recognition of his exceptional contribution to public life and social equity, the Government of India conferred the Bharat Ratna — the country’s highest civilian award — on Karpoori Thakur posthumously in 2024. The honour was widely seen as long overdue and was welcomed across the political spectrum, particularly by leaders and communities who regard Thakur as a symbol of empowerment and dignity. Political analysts note that Karpoori Thakur’s relevance has only grown over time, especially as debates around social justice, representation and inclusive growth continue to shape Indian politics. His emphasis on education, reservation, linguistic accessibility in administration and decentralised governance remains influential, particularly in Bihar and neighbouring states. As the nation marks his birth anniversary, Karpoori Thakur is remembered not only as a former chief minister or socialist leader, but as a statesman whose ideas were rooted in equity, humility and democratic participation. His life and work continue to serve as a moral and political reference point in contemporary India, reinforcing the values of social justice and public service.
PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat – Episode: 130th
GOVERNMENTPM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat – Episode: 130th Newsyaar January 25, 2026 6:15 pm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehO3BjjTQgM&t=28sVideo credit: YT@/NaMo My dear countrymen, Namaskar. This is the first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of the year 2026. Tomorrow, on the 26th of January, we shall all celebrate our Republic Day. Our Constitution came into effect on this very day. This day; the 26th of January, gives us an opportunity to pay homage to the founding fathers of our Constitution. Today, the 25th of January, is also a very significant day. Today is National Voter’s Day… Matadata Diwas. A voter is the soul of democracy. Friends, Usually, when someone turns 18, becomes a voter, it is considered a normal milestone in life. However, this occasion is actually a major milestone in any Indian’s life. Therefore, it is very important that we celebrate becoming a voter in our country. Just as we wish and celebrate birthdays… similarly, whenever a young person becomes a voter for the first time, the entire neighbourhood, village, or city should come together to congratulate them and distribute sweets. That would raise awareness about voting and strengthen the feeling of how important it is to be a voter. Friends, I would like to express my deep appreciation to all those people in the country who are involved in the electoral process and work at the grassroots level to keep our democracy vibrant. Today, on ‘Voter’s Day’, I would once again urge my young friends to register themselves as voters upon turning 18. This will fulfil the sense of duty that the Constitution expects of every citizen and will also strengthen India’s democracy. My dear countrymen, These days I am seeing an interesting trend on social media. People are reliving their memories of the year 2016. In the same spirit, today I too would like to share one of my memories with you. Ten years ago, in January 2016, we embarked upon an ambitious journey. We had realised then, that even if it were a small one, it was very important for the future of the country for the young generation. At that time, some people could not understand what it was all about, after all! Friends, the journey I am referring to is the journey of Start-up India. The heroes of this amazing journey are our young friends. The innovations they came up with by stepping out of their comfort zones are being recorded in history. Friends, Today India has turned into the third largest Start-ups ecosystem in the world. These Start-ups are out of the box; they are working in sectors that were unimaginable even 10 years ago. AI, Space, Nuclear Energy, Semiconductors, Mobility, Green Hydrogen, Biotechnology… you name it and you’ll find one Indian Start-up or the other working in that sector. I salute all my young friends who are associated with one Start-up or the other or want to start one of their own. Friends, Today through ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I want to urge my countrymen; especially the youth associated with industry and Start-ups. India’s economy is progressing rapidly. The world is watching India. At such a juncture, we all shoulder a huge responsibility. That responsibility is to emphasize on quality. The era of ‘it just happens… it works… it will go through somehow’ is over. Come, let us prioritize quality with all our might this year. Let our only mantra be quality, quality and only quality. Better quality today than what it was yesterday. Let us resolve to improve the quality of whatever we manufacture. Be it our textiles, technology or electronics… even packaging; the connotation of an Indian product should become – ‘top quality’. Come, let us make excellence our benchmark. Let us resolve that there will be no laxity on quality, nor will there be any compromise on quality. And I had expressed from Red Fort – ‘Zero Defect Zero Effect’. Only by doing this shall we be able to accelerate the journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’. My dear countrymen, The people of our country are very innovative. Seeking solutions to problems is part of our countrymen’s nature. Some do this through start-ups; while others try to find a solution through the collective strength of society. One such effort has emerged in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh. The People there have lent life anew to the Tamsa River that flows through this place. The Tamsa is not just a river; it’s a Live continuum of our cultural and spiritual heritage. This river, which crosses Ayodhya and merges with the Ganga, was once the axis of life for the people of this region. However, on account of pollution, its uninterrupted flow was obstructed. Silt, garbage and filth had blocked the flow of this river. After that, the people here started a campaign to give it a new lease of life. The river was cleaned, and shady, fruit-bearing trees were planted along its banks. Local people engaged themselves at the task with a sense of duty… and through everyone’s efforts, the river was revived. Friends, A similar endeavour of public participation has also been witnessed in Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh. This is a region that has been grappling with a severe drought. The soil here is red and sandy, which is why people face water shortages. Many areas here do not receive rain over long periods. People sometimes even compare Anantapur to a desert drought.Friends, to address this problem, locals resolved to clean the reservoirs. After that, with the support of the administration, the ‘Ananta Neeru Sanrakshanam Project’ was launched. Under this effort, more than 10 reservoirs have been revived. These reservoirs are filling with water now. Simultaneously, more than 7,000 trees have been planted. This means that along with water conservation, the green cover in Anantapur has also increased. Children now, can also enjoy swimming here. In a way, the entire ecosystem here has been revitalized. Friends, Whether it’s Azamgarh, Ananthapur,
Jallikattu 2026: Dates, Venues, Significance and How to Experience Tamil Nadu’s Bull-Taming Celebration
Jallikattu, a centuries-old bull-taming event deeply rooted in Tamil Nadu’s cultural fabric, is among India’s most iconic traditional sports. Celebrated as part of the Pongal harvest festival in January, Jallikattu blends sport, heritage and community identity, drawing enthusiastic participation from rural areas and spectators from across the state and beyond. What Is Jallikattu and Why It MattersJallikattu (also known as Sallikkattu or Manjuvirattu) is a traditional sport in which a bull, often of native breeds such as Pulikulam or Kangayam, is released into an open arena. Participants, known as tamers, attempt to grasp the bull’s hump and hold on long enough to bring the animal to a stop or cross a designated finish line. The sport is symbolic of valour, rural tradition and cattle conservation, traditionally practised in southern Tamil Nadu as part of Pongal celebrations. The sport also functions as a way for farming communities to maintain and honour native bull breeds, which are culturally and economically significant in agrarian life. When It Happens: Dates and DurationJallikattu events are typically held during the Pongal festival, which falls in mid-January each year. The main events are organised on Mattu Pongal day — the third day of the four-day Pongal celebration — with some competitions taking place before and after this date as part of the broader season. In recent seasons:The first Jallikattu of the year has been held as early as January 3 in districts such as Pudukottai. Major competitions like those in Avaniyapuram, Palamedu and Alanganallur are usually held between January 14 and 16, coinciding with Pongal festivities. Major Venues Where Jallikattu Is HeldJallikattu is organised in several traditional hotspots, particularly in southern Tamil Nadu:Avaniyapuram (Madurai district): One of the first and most popular stages of Jallikattu — often held on Pongal day — attracting hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators each year. Palamedu: Another historic venue with intense local participation. Alanganallur: Considered among the most famous Jallikattu arenas in the state with large crowd turnout. Suriyur (Trichy district): A permanent Jallikattu arena inaugurated recently to host this traditional sport during the season. Thatchankurichi (Pudukottai district): Hosts one of the opening events of the season, drawing participants from several districts. How to Reach and Experience JallikattuAir Travel:The nearest major airport for most Jallikattu venues is Madurai Airport (IXM), well connected to major Indian cities including Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Rail Travel:Madurai Junction is the closest major railway station to Avaniyapuram, Palamedu and Alanganallur, with regular trains from key cities across India. Road Connectivity:Tamil Nadu’s road network links other districts such as Pudukottai, Tiruchirappalli and Theni to the Jallikattu venues. State buses, private taxis and shared vehicles are common options during the festival. What to Expect at the EventTraditional Spectacle:Each Jallikattu event begins with bulls being released from a designated enclosure (called vadivasal) into a field where tamers attempt to hold onto the animal’s hump or ride them. Success entails stopping or controlling the bull, which requires strength, skill and experience. Registration and Safety:Bull tamers and owners usually register with district authorities ahead of events, and bulls undergo veterinary checks to ensure fitness for participation. Medical and veterinary teams are typically stationed at arenas to handle injuries. Prizes and Recognition:In past years, winners have received significant prizes — including cars for top tamers and tractors or other awards for the best bulls — reflecting the prestige associated with the sport. Spectator Culture:Thousands of spectators, including local devotees and cultural tourists, gather at these arenas. Large crowds, local music and festive foods are part of the overall experience.Cultural and Historical SignificanceJallikattu’s origins date back over two millennia, with references to bull-taming activities in ancient Tamil literature. The sport is traditionally linked to the harvest festival of Pongal, where people express gratitude for agricultural bounty and honour livestock, which are central to rural livelihoods. Beyond sport, Jallikattu symbolizes community pride, bravery and rural identity. Despite controversies over animal welfare and safety in the past, it retains deep cultural resonance in Tamil Nadu and forms an integral part of the Pongal narrative.Visitor Tips and SafetyPlan Travel Early: January is peak season; book transport and accommodation well in advance.Stay Informed: Specific dates and registrations vary by district; check local administration notifications for schedules.Safety Precautions: While festive, Jallikattu involves large animals and crowds. Follow directions from officials and avoid entering restricted areas in arenas.Cultural Respect: The event is traditionally tied to local customs and community pride — respectful behaviour enhances the experience.In SummaryJallikattu is more than a sporting spectacle — it is a living tradition celebrated against the backdrop of harvest gratitude and local identity during the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu. Combining cultural heritage, fierce competition and community participation, it offers an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. With major venues such as Avaniyapuram, Palamedu and Alanganallur hosting events each January, the sport continues to draw attention both within India and abroad as an enduring symbol of Tamil rural culture.Video credit: YT@/Vikatan TV
A Millennium of Faith and Civilisational Pride at the Somnath Swabhiman Parv 2026
Somnath (Gujarat): The coastal town of Somnath is witnessing a grand national celebration as the Somnath Swabhiman Parv unfolds this year, honouring 1,000 years of unbroken faith and resilience tied to the iconic Somnath Temple.Observed from January 8–11, 2026, the event commemorates both a millennium since the first recorded attack on the temple and 75 years since its post-Independence reconstruction. It has drawn devotees, dignitaries and citizens from across India to reflect on India’s spiritual heritage and civilisational strength.Historic Significance Behind the CelebrationThe Somnath Swabhiman Parv marks a historic milestone in the temple’s long journey. In January 1026, the temple was attacked by Mahmud of Ghazni, initiating a series of invasions over centuries that repeatedly destroyed and tested this sacred shrine.Despite these challenges, the Somnath Temple was rebuilt numerous times, becoming a powerful symbol of Indian civilisation’s depth and resilience. This enduring spirit is central to the Parv’s celebrations, with organisers emphasising not the devastation of the past but the unbroken continuity of faith.The year 2026 is doubly significant because it also marks 75 years since the temple’s reconstruction was completed and opened to the public in 1951, following India’s independence. This intertwines the celebration with modern India’s journey of nation-building and cultural revival.Prime Minister Leads National ObservancePrime Minister Narendra Modi visited Somnath to participate in the Swabhiman Parv, highlighting the temple’s role as a symbol of civilisational courage and cultural pride.During his three-day visit, he took part in traditional rituals, offered prayers and addressed gatherings that reflected on the temple’s significance as a cornerstone of India’s spiritual identity. Modi also underscored that the Parv honours those who preserved the heritage and spirit of Somnath across the centuries.Spiritual and Cultural Activities Across the ParvThe four-day Parv featured a range of devotional and cultural events designed to engage visitors and deepen public appreciation of the temple’s legacy. A notable highlight was the 72-hour Akhand Omkar chanting, a continuous recitation symbolising unity and collective devotion. The temple town also hosted devotional music performances, cultural programmes, and spiritual discourses, creating an atmosphere of reflection and reverence.The celebrations have been so well-received that the Gujarat government extended the Parv until January 15, enabling more devotees to participate in the festivities and anniversary observances.A Symbol of Faith and National IdentityMore than a festival, the Somnath Swabhiman Parv is being viewed as a collective affirmation of India’s civilisational strength, spiritual continuity and cultural pride.As visitors from across the nation continue to join in the celebrations, the Parv reaffirms Somnath’s place not only as a revered pilgrimage site but also as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience that have defined the region across centuries.Video credit: YT@/NaMoVideo credit: YT@/NaMoVideo credit: YT@/NaMo
New Delhi Book Fair 2026: A Literary Celebration Bringing Readers and Writers Together
The Delhi Book Fair once again transformed the national capital into a vibrant hub of literature, ideas, and storytelling. Known as one of India’s most loved literary events, the fair attracted book lovers, authors, publishers, and students from across the country, reaffirming Delhi’s place as a cultural and intellectual centre. Event Details Dates: January 10–18, 2026 (9 days) Venue: Bharat Mandapam (Halls 2–6), Pragati Maidan, New Delhi Timings: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily Entry: Free for all visitors Stepping into the fair felt like entering a world woven from stories, ideas, and imagination. The event showcased an incredible variety of books across genres, from fiction and non-fiction to academic texts, children’s books, self-help, and regional language publications, catering to readers of all ages and interests.An iconic venue, the fair offered a rich mix of books across genres, ranging from fiction, non-fiction, academic texts, children’s literature, self-help, and regional language publications. A Paradise for Book Lovers Walking into the Delhi Book Fair felt like stepping into a world made entirely of stories. Hundreds of stalls showcased books in English, Hindi, and several Indian languages, ensuring there was something for every reader. From bestselling novels and classic literature to competitive exam guides and research material, the fair catered to readers of all ages.Special sections dedicated to children remained a major attraction, with colourful books, comics, and activity corners encouraging young minds to develop a love for reading. Authors, Discussions, and Cultural Exchange Beyond book shopping, the Delhi Book Fair served as a platform for author interactions, panel discussions, and book launches. Renowned writers, emerging voices, and publishers engaged in conversations around literature, education, publishing trends, and the future of reading in a digital age.These sessions provided readers with a chance to connect directly with authors, understand their creative journeys, and gain insights into the evolving literary landscape.In a time when online content dominates, the fair stood as a reminder of the lasting value of printed books and structured learning. Keeping the Reading Culture Alive Despite the rise of e-books and digital platforms, the Delhi Book Fair highlighted that the charm of physical books remains strong. The event brought together people from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared love for reading, learning, and storytelling.Publishers also offered attractive discounts, making books more accessible and encouraging readers to build personal libraries. Delhi Book Fair: More Than Just an Event The Delhi Book Fair is not just about buying books; it is about celebrating ideas, creativity, and knowledge. It continues to inspire curiosity, promote literacy, and strengthen India’s reading culture.As the fair concludes, it leaves behind shelves full of new books and minds filled with fresh perspectives, proving once again that stories still matter, and always will.
Pongal 2026: India Celebrates the Festival of Harvest with Tradition, Gratitude, and Unity
As the sun begins its northward journey, Tamil Nadu and Tamil communities across the globe come alive with joy, devotion, and cultural pride to celebrate Pongal 2026, one of India’s most significant harvest festivals. Observed annually in mid-January, Pongal marks gratitude to nature, farmers, cattle, and the Sun God for a bountiful harvest.Pongal 2026 will be celebrated over four days, each holding deep cultural and spiritual meaning.The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal, symbolising renewal and the discarding of old possessions to welcome positivity and prosperity. Homes are cleaned, bonfires are lit, and families prepare for new beginnings.The main day, Thai Pongal, is dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God). Families gather early in the morning to prepare the traditional sweet dish “Pongal” made from freshly harvested rice, jaggery, milk, and lentils.As the milk overflows from the pot, cries of “Pongalo Pongal!” echo through homes, symbolising abundance and good fortune. Colourful kolams (rangoli) adorn entrances, reflecting happiness and creativity.The third day, Mattu Pongal, honors cattle, recognizing their vital role in agriculture and rural life. Cows and bulls are bathed, decorated with flowers, and worshipped. In many villages, traditional events like Jallikattu add excitement, drawing large crowds and tourists.The celebrations conclude with Kaanum Pongal, a day for social bonding. Families visit relatives, enjoy outdoor picnics, and strengthen community ties. In 2026, urban celebrations are expected to blend tradition with modernity, featuring cultural programs, eco-friendly festivities, and digital greetings.Pongal 2026 also highlights sustainability and respect for nature. Many communities are choosing organic decorations, traditional cooking methods, and locally sourced ingredients, aligning the festival with environmental awareness.Beyond Tamil Nadu, Pongal is celebrated by the Tamil diaspora worldwide, from Sri Lanka and Malaysia to the US, UK, and Canada, making it a global cultural event.As Pongal 2026 arrives, it serves as a reminder of gratitude, hard work, and harmony between humans and nature, values that remain timeless in a rapidly changing world
PM Modi’s Inspiring Speech on National Youth Day at Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026
PM Modi addresses Young Indians on National Youth Day. It is officially celebrated on 12th January every year.PM delivered the speech on concluding session of Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, a public event that was organised especially for the Youths of the nation. Video credit: @Youtube/Narendra Modi