Puja

The Satyanarayan Vrat, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, will be observed on May 1, 2026, coinciding with Vaishakha Purnima. This auspicious full moon day holds immense religious significance, with devotees performing Satyanarayan Puja and observing a fast from dawn to dusk to appease the deity and worship the Moon God.

Hindus observe Vaishakha Purnima today, May 1, 2026, a sacred day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the Moon God. Devotees undertake fasts, perform Satyanarayan Puja, and seek blessings. This day also marks Buddha Purnima, celebrating Lord Buddha's birth, making it significant for both Buddhists and Hindus. Rituals include holy dips and offering prayers.

A flex at Kankalitala temple in Bolpur declared only Hindus allowed for Puja, installed by 'Sanatan Paksha'. Temple priests stated no one is prohibited from entering, but Hindus typically offer prayers. This exclusionary message contrasts with Bengal's inclusive temple traditions, as seen at Tarapith temple where no restrictions exist. Local BJP leadership denied involvement and opposed new regulations.

Vaishakha Purnima, observed today, May 1, 2026, is a highly significant day for Hindus and Buddhists, marking Lord Buddha's birth. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu, perform Satyanarayan Puja, and observe fasts from dawn till dusk. The day is also dedicated to worshipping the Moon God, seeking blessings and spiritual fulfillment.

A 34-year-old software engineer, Puja Dutta, was found dead in her Bengaluru home under suspicious circumstances. Police suspect suicide due to the door being locked from the inside and cut marks on her body, though investigations are ongoing. Her parents have been contacted and are en route to the city.

Political analyst Suvrokamal Dutta explains why Bengal’s verdict was both a rejection of the TMC and an endorsement of the BJP, and what it could mean for Mamata Banerjee’s party and the wider opposition alliance

Devotees will observe Ekdanta Sankashti Chaturthi vrat on May 5, 2026. This day honors Lord Ganesha, the Pratham Pujya. The fast begins at dawn and ends after moonrise. Rituals include prayers, chanting mantras, and offering bhog. Lord Ganesha is worshipped for removing obstacles and bringing prosperity. The vrat requires adherence to sattvik practices.

A 34-year-old private company employee, Puja Dutta, was found dead in her Adugodi rented house under disturbing circumstances. Neighbours alerted the owner about a foul smell, leading police to discover her decomposed body, naked and in a pool of blood. The locked door and cut marks on her body suggest potential suicide, though investigations are ongoing.

Ganga Dussehra, a significant Hindu festival, commemorates the descent of Goddess Ganga to Earth. Celebrated on Dashami tithi of Jyeshtha's shukla paksha, devotees observe rituals and take holy baths in the Ganga river. This year, the festival falls on May 25, 2026, offering a chance to seek blessings and atone for past sins.

May 2026 brings two significant Ekadashi observances, Apara Ekadashi and Padmini Ekadashi. These days are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, offering devotees a powerful opportunity for spiritual growth. Observing Ekadashi involves fasting, prayer, and self-discipline. Devotees can purify their mind, body, and soul. The rituals include waking early, chanting mantras, and offering prayers.

Vat Savitri Vrat, a significant festival for married Hindu women, will be observed on May 16, 2026. This day, also known as Vat Amavasya, is dedicated to praying for the longevity and well-being of husbands. Women fast, offer prayers to the sacred banyan tree, and perform specific rituals for divine blessings.

Devotees will observe Bhaum Pradosh Vrat on April 28, 2026, a highly auspicious day dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This Tuesday Pradosh is believed to bestow blessings of happiness, health, and prosperity. Rituals include fasting, prayers, and chanting mantras, with specific observances for those influenced by Mars.

Political analyst Suvrokamal Dutta explains why Bengal’s verdict was both a rejection of the TMC and an endorsement of the BJP, and what it could mean for Mamata Banerjee’s party and the wider opposition alliance

Apara Ekadashi, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, will be observed on May 13, 2026. This auspicious fast, falling on the 11th day of the Jyeshtha Krishna Paksha, is believed to bestow spiritual growth, inner peace, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Vaishnavas worldwide are gearing up to celebrate Narasimha Jayanti on April 30, 2026, commemorating Lord Narasimha's birth. This significant day honors the half-man, half-lion avatar of Lord Vishnu, who emerged to protect his devotee Prahalad from the tyrannical Hiranyakashyap. Devotees observe rituals and prayers to seek protection and blessings.

Bengal's delicate sholapith craft, traditionally used for religious adornments, has achieved global haute couture status. A stunning Met Gala creation by Mayyur Girotra, brought to life by four Malakar artisans, showcased this fading art form's intricate beauty on an international stage. The ensemble, a fusion of shola and Kanjeevaram silk, highlights the craft's quiet grandeur and the artisans' dedication.

Narasimha Jayanti, celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Narasimha, one of Lord Vishnu's incarnations, will be observed on April 30, 2026. This significant Hindu festival, particularly prominent in South India, honors the half-human, half-lion deity believed to vanquish negativity and enemies. Devotees engage in specific Puja rituals and chant mantras to seek his blessings.

Bada Mangal, also known as Budhwa Mangal, is an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Hanuman, observed by devotees in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. This year, 2026, is special with 8 Bada Mangal days due to an Adhik Maas, offering devotees ample opportunities for worship and spiritual enlightenment. Rituals include fasting, offering specific items to Hanuman, and chanting mantras.

Jharkhand's innovative public health practices, including the 'T4 app' for anaemia management, received national acclaim at a summit in Chandigarh. Meanwhile, a new gym was inaugurated in Ranchi, emphasizing the importance of fitness for a healthy nation.

Actor Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas wed Kavya Reddy in a traditional Tirumala ceremony. His mother expressed deep gratitude for the blessed union. The couple's coordinated wedding attire, designed by Shravan Kummar, featured intricate South Indian motifs and depictions of Lord Venkateswara. A reception for industry friends is planned.