Using state-of-the-art scientific expertise, a team of Indian scientists orchestrates a remarkable 'Surya Tilak' ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. Employing a specially designed instrument, a precise 5.8 centimetre beam of sunlight is directed onto the deity's forehead, marking a significant engineering feat. The mechanism, developed by collaboration between institutions like CBRI Roorkee and IIAP Bengaluru, involves sophisticated opto-mechanical systems and solar tracking principles. With meticulous planning and technical prowess, the ritual is flawlessly executed, showcasing India's prowess in merging tradition with innovation.

On Ram Navami, the Sun's rays adorned the forehead of Ram Lalla with a 'surya tilak' at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir. This marked the first celebration since the idol's consecration at the new temple inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The mesmerizing event, witnessed for around two to two-and-a-half minutes, was displayed on large LED screens across Ayodhya. Achieved through an intricate setup of mirrors and lenses, the 'Surya tilak' directed sunlight into the sanctum sanctorum from the temple's third floor, enriching the spiritual ambiance of the occasion.

The inaugural Shiva Festival in London, organized by the Sanatan Sanstha of UK (SSUK), mesmerized nearly 500 attendees with cultural performances and spiritual rituals on March 9, 2024. Esteemed guests, including community representatives and dignitaries, inaugurated the event with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Highlights included soul-stirring bhajans, captivating dance routines, and interactive sessions explaining the significance of Shivratri. The event also featured a unique Jalaabhishek ceremony and a dynamic recital of the Shiv Tandav Stotram. Attendees expressed gratitude as Mahadev interacted with devotees, leaving lasting memories of devotion and cultural richness.

The newly-installed idol of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's Ram Temple boasts opulent jewellery, a culmination of dedicated craftsmanship. A total of 15 kg of gold, 18,000 diamonds, and emeralds were meticulously fashioned into 14 pieces, including a 1.7 kg crown adorned with 75-carat diamonds and 175-carat Zambian emeralds. Crafted in just 12 days, each piece drew inspiration from sacred texts, symbolizing Lord Ram's divine attributes. Lucknow's Harsahaymal Shyamlal Jewelers undertook this responsibility, delivering a stunning ensemble. The intricate jewellery adds a touch of scripture-based beauty to the revered idol.

The idol of Lord Ram depicting him as a 5-year-old child was placed in the inner sanctum of the Ayodhya Ram Temple on Thursday ahead of the consecration ceremony on January 22nd. The intricately carved 51-inch black stone idol was sculpted by Arun Yogiraj based in Mysuru. Elaborate rituals have begun in preparation for the "Pran Pratishtha". PM Modi will perform the puja for the "Pran Pratistha', sources have said. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will perform the main rituals of the "Pran Prathistha". To spiritually purify himself, Modi is sleeping on the floor with only a blanket, drinking only coconut water, and avoiding outside contact. He has appealed to the public not to visit Ayodhya on the 22nd to avoid inconveniencing Lord Ram. The public can attend from January 23rd onwards when the temple opens.

Tonight, India, Asia, Europe, Africa, and Russia will witness a mesmerizing partial lunar eclipse, starting at 11:31 PM IST. Astrophysicist Debi Prasad Duari confirmed the event, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Lakshmi Puja in West Bengal and Sharad Poonam. The penumbral eclipse begins at 11:31 PM IST, with the partial umbral eclipse starting at 1:05 AM IST on October 29. Maximum obscuration of the lunar disc occurs at 1:44 AM IST, concluding at 2:23 AM IST. Stargazers can enjoy this celestial display during the late hours of October 28 and early hours of October 29. [ Representative Image]

In a vibrant celebration, London's Hindu temple in Slough marked the 30th year of Dussehra with grandeur. Over a thousand attendees witnessed a spectacular fireworks display featuring 30 minutes of dazzling lights. The event, adorned with depictions of Lord Ram, Lakshman and Hanuman was filled with enthusiastic participants, including children. Chief guest Chairman Vinod Kumar Sharma, alongside Rishu Walia, Hirdesh Gupta, and Pandit Naresh Saraswat, graced the occasion. This jubilant festivity symbolizing the victory of good over evil added sparkle to the London skyline, echoing the global spirit of Dussehra.

In a tradition cherished by the Bengali community worldwide, the anticipation for Goddess Durga's return begins soon after her departure to Mount Kailasha on the day of Dashami (Dussehra). Shorts91 presents the upcoming schedule for Maa Durga's visit next year. Mahalaya, the day of "Tarpan", is slated for October 2, 2024. Navratri festivities commence on October 3, following Mahalaya. The full Pujo schedule includes Shashti on October 9, Saptami on October 10, Ashtami on October 11, and Navami on October 12 in 2024. The divine goddess will bid farewell on Dashami, falling on October 13, 2024. Shorts91 wishes Shubho Bijoya to all our readers and wait for the return of the Mother next year.

During the ongoing Navratri festival in India, the 146-year-old Kanyaka Parameshwari Ammavari Temple in Visakhapatnam's Kurupam Market has captured attention with its elaborate decoration. The temple is adorned with currency notes and gold ornaments worth crores. The total worth of the currency used in the temple's decoration, including that of the goddess Kanyaka Parameshwari idol, is estimated at Rs 2 crore. The 10-day Navaratri festival featured worship of various goddess incarnations and special abhishekam ceremonies with 18 different liquids. The goddess was bedecked with gold ornaments, golden flowers, gold saris, and a significant quantity of precious metals and currency.

The Shorts91 team visited Durga Puja pandals across West London this Saturday, soaking in the festive atmosphere that evoked the feel of India far from home. Prabashi UK Pandal's golden theme and delicious bhog transported us to Kolkata. The newly launched Prayas UK Pandal signified the younger generation taking over organizing the celebrations. Bengal Heritage Foundation's Sharad Utsav provided four days of cultural events, worship, and free bhog. With over 10,000 visitors, they host various cultural programs year-round. These groups help Indians in London feel connected to their roots during festivals when homesickness peaks. Their efforts truly capture the spirit of Durga Puja abroad.