Continuous heavy downpour causes floods in northern India

Continuous heavy downpour causes floods in northern India

varanasi : Jun 30 08:45 ANI                                                                By Girish Kumar Dubey

With heavy rains lashing continuously for the past two days, water level in sacred rivers of Ganges and Yamuna advances in the holy town of Allahabad in northern India's Uttar Pradesh state.

The flood has adversely affected the pilgrims, who flock in large numbers throughout the year to the holy town.

"The situation here is very serious. We are very much worried about this. The most important thing is that the Sangam (a confluence of three sacred rivers-Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati) has shifted to some other place. It has shifted towards north," said Gopal Tyagi, a local.

Meanwhile, the heavy rains have also caused floods in Varanasi city of the state.

Pilgrims complained that they could not take holy-dip due to the rise in water level in the holy Ganges.

"The water level has increased due to the continuous rains. We are facing a lot of problems in travelling from one place to another and it is also causing problems for the pilgrims who wish to take holy dip in the river," said Shyam Sharma, a pilgrim.

Floods situations are a common phenomenon in India during the annual monsoon season, which is in fact vital for South Asia's farm dependent economy.

Intro

With the onset of monsoon, the water level in Ganges and Yamuna rivers enhances due to continuous heavy downpour for the last two days in northern India.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS EDIT CONTAINS CONVERTED 4:3 MATERIAL

Shotlist

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (JUNE 30, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

7. DEVOTEES STANDING NEAR RIVER GANGA

8. BOATS FLOATING

9. WATER IN THE RIVER

10. BUILDINGS HALF-SUBMERGED IN WATER

11. BOATS FLOATING

12. PEOPLE SITTING

13. MEN ROWING BOATS

14. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) SHYAM SHARMA, A PILGRIM, SAYING:

"The water level has increased due to the continuous rains. We are facing a lot of problems in travelling from one place to another and it is also causing problems for the pilgrims who wish to take holy dip in the river."

15. A MAN STANDING ON A BOAT

16. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) GOPAL TYAGI, A LOCAL, SAYING:

"The situation here is very serious. We are very much worried about this. The most important thing is that the Sangam (a confluence of three sacred rivers-Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati) has shifted to some other place. It has shifted towards north."

Original Script Date

Jun 30 08:45

Modified Script Date

Jun 30 08:45

Script Version

1

Headline

Continuous heavy downpour causes floods in northern India.

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

JUNE 30, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:01

Awareness marches, rallies mark World Environment Day

Submitted on Jun 07 2007(ANI)                             By Girish Kumar Dubey

Awareness marches and rallies marked the World Environment Day in India on Tuesday.

In Varanasi, the Panini Kanya Vidyalaya organised a special fire ritual to promote environmental conservation.

"It was an effort to cleanse the environment. When the substance is put in the fire, it becomes microscopic and destroys the disease-causing germs," said Medha Tripathi, the headmistress.

In Agra, a car rally was organised by the Societies for Help and Care, Road Injuries, to create awareness about the environment, its protection and conservation.

Even as rallyists drove through the streets of Agra urging locals to save environment, government employed labourers felled trees on the national highway to make place for a four-lane highway.

Children also participated in a painting competition organised in the city to sensitize them.

"The global warming and climate change is the subject for the 2007 environment day. We are celebrating it only to create awareness among the students, teachers and guardians and to train them to protect the environment," saidiswendu Bhattacharjee, an environmental activist, who participated in awareness march in Agartala.

In Agartala, an awareness rally was flagged off from the Tripura Legislative Assembly by its member Pabitra Kar at 6 a.m. to mark the day.

Messages highlighting the threat of global warming, human-induced climate change, the thinning of the ozone layer and the impact of chemical pollution and deforestation featured on placards.

Academicians, doctors, politicians, students, non-government organisation (NGO) and paramilitary forces like Assam Rifles, Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and Border Security Force (BSF) participated in the rally.

The Association for Research on People and Nature (ARPAN), an NGO, organised the rally.

Several programmes have been organised across the State to create awareness about environmental disasters and how to control them.

Meanwhile, the Tripura Pollution Control Board organised an art competition for young children with the theme of global warming.

World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5. It is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates awareness world-wide about the environment.

Treating illness with gemstones

Treating illness with gemstones

                                                                               By Girish Kumar Dubey

 Varanasi, June 11 : Varansi, a place known for its religious fervour, is emerging as a haven for many gemstone traders who style themselves as 'Astrology Doctors'.

Many claim that they can cure diseases like cancer, anaemia, piles, kidney-related problems and others, with their 'gemstone-therapy'. It is done by influencing the planetary conditions through gemstones.

They prefix 'Dr.' with their names.

Different gemstones are prescribed for patients' after studying their horoscopes. It is after a brief analysis of the horoscope that a patient is suggested what planet is actually affecting his/her health.

Sidhartha Singh, one of such astrologer-therapists, said: 'In astrological therapy, ailment is treated on the basis of positions of planets and twelve zodiacs. Like Aries and Scorpio are controlled by Mars. If Mars is creating problem then the person could suffer from blood related ailments and injuries. In such cases we suggest people to use coral gem.'

The gemstones are expensive and often bought by the well-off families. Dozens of such 'clinics' have come up in various parts of Varanasi.

It is claimed wearing a right stone matching one's horoscope can cure a person of all ailments.

Some of these 'astrology doctors' admit that astrological permutations and combinations can only treat the problems

indirectly and it is the allopathic doctors that can give direct treatment.

Lakshman Das, an astrologer-therapist, said: 'Astrologers can only tell when the disease rooted as well as the planet responsible for the ailment. An astrologer cannot do the direct treatment. He only pacifies the planetary conditions of the concerned person.'

It takes various gem stones for a 'treatment' of any disease as per these 'astrological practitioners'. Though many people visiting some of the genuine astrologers say they have benefited through gem therapy.

Vivek, a visitor to one such astrologer, said: 'He (astrologer) told me to wear pearl for various purposes; it could give me a peace of mind and success in my career. I followed the advice and now I am happy in my life.'

Manish, another visitor to such astrological clinic, said: 'When I came here astrologer searched my entire horoscope and advised me to use coral. From the time I am using it, I have been benefited a lot.'

In astrology, there are twelve zodiacs and three planets i.e. Mars, Venus and Saturn which have a direct and indirect bearing on human life and health.

Hundreds of socially marginalised women in northern India get access to worship at temples.

Hundreds of socially marginalised women in northern India get access to worship at temples.

Source---ANI   Jun 21 01:10

Restrictions --NO ACCESS BBC                                             By Girish Kumar Dubey

Around 250 women in to the profession of sanitation such as cleaning toilets and belonging to socially marginalised sections of the Hindu society got access to revered temples in holy town of Varanasi of India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh on Monday (June 20).

The event was a part of an anti apartheid campaign launched by a non-government organisation, Sulabh International.

Under this campaign, volunteers of Sulabh International educate the public to end orthodox beliefs and also convince people doing menial jobs acceptable in the society.

Women belonging to Alwar, Tonk in northwestern Rajasthan and Arrah in eastern Bihar states have been beneficiaries of the exercise.

One of the women beneficiaries in the campaign expressed her happiness on being able to worship deities at revered places and also being accepted in the society without any discrimination.

"Earlier I used to clean waste materials and faced a lot of discrimination from people. We were not allowed to go temples, even water was provided to us from a distance. Since my association with Sulabh I left this job and due to sir (Bindeshwar Pathak, founder Sulabh International) have had the opportunity to visit temples. I am doing a respectable job and had never thought of visiting a temple or Delhi in my life. It was like a dream for a poor person like me, and due to sir this has become possible and we are very happy," said Anita.

The group of women chanted hymns as they entered the temples including the sanctum sanctorum and bathed in the holy River Ganga other than having lunch with priestly families belonging to the Brahmin class, considered to be the highest section in the society.

Bindeshwar Pathak, founder Sulabh International told media persons on the need to bring this class of society at par with the rest and end discrimination.

"This tradition has been carried on since 5,000 years in which their ancestors used to clean toilets and they had to follow the same profession. Girls even of the age of seven years had to begin joining the profession at that age, one can't find words to describe their discrimination," said Pathak.

For centuries people in to the occupation of cleaning toilets have been discriminated and they faced social apartheid in India.

Different non-governmental organisations across India are fighting for their equality other than imparting vocational and skilled training so that they can switch professions and earn a respectable living in the society.

Intro

In a bid to end social apartheid, a group of 250 women belonging to lower strata of Hindu society are given access to worship deities at revered temples in the holy town of Varanasi in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS EDIT CONTAINS CONVERTED 4:3 MATERIAL

Shotlist

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (JUNE 20, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

1. WOMEN DRESSED IN BLUE SARIS BELONGING TO THE MARGINALISED SECTIONS OF SOCIETY ENTERING A TEMPLE PREMISES

2. WOMEN HOLDING RELIGIOUS OFFERINGS WALKING IN A LANE

3. BINDESHWAR PATHAK FOUNDER SULABH INTERNATIONAL, WALKING WITH THE WOMEN

4. WOMEN WALKING IN A GROUP

5. WOMEN CHANTING RELIGIOUS SLOGANS

6. WOMEN CHANTING HYMNS

7. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) ANITA, A MARGINALISED WOMAN, SAYING:

"Earlier I used to clean waste materials and faced a lot of discrimination from people. We were not allowed to go temples, even water was provided to us from a distance. Since my association with Sulabh I left this job and due to sir (Bindeshwar Pathak, founder Sulabh International) have had the opportunity to visit temples. I am doing a respectable job and had never thought of visiting a temple or Delhi in my life. It was like a dream for a poor person like me, and due to sir this has become possible and we are very happy."

8. WOMEN ON THE BANKS OF RIVER GANGA

9. WOMEN OFFERING PRAYERS

10. WOMEN PERFORMING RELIGIOUS RITUALS

11. WOMEN WALKING AWAY AFTER TAKING A DIP IN THE RIVER

12. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) BINDESHWARI PATHAK, FOUNDER, SULABH INTERNATIONAL, A NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATION, SAYING:

"This tradition has been carried on since 5,000 years in which their ancestors used to clean toilets and they had to follow the same profession. Girls even of the age of seven years had to begin joining the profession at that age, one can't find words to describe their discrimination."

13. A PRIEST PERFORMING RELIGIOUS RITUALS

14. WOMEN EATING FOOD WITH THE PRIESTS

15. A PRIEST EATING

16. WOMEN SITTING OPPOSITE PRIESTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

17. CHILDREN CHANTING PRAYERS DURING THE FEAST

Uttar Pradesh weavers make gigantic carpet for China hotel

Uttar Pradesh weavers make gigantic carpet for China hotel

Fri, 01/23/2009 - 18:54                                                                  By Girish Kumar Dubey

Bhadohi (Uttar Pradesh), Jan 23 : Weavers in Bhadohi district of Uttar Pradesh made a gigantic carpet which will adorn the floors of a China hotel.

Made by around 200 weavers in three months'', the carpet measuring 113 feet in width and 160 feet in length.

The carpet has been made on a special order by China''s Hyatt hotel and this is the first time that such a big carpet has been made by these weavers.

"This is the first time we''ve made such a big carpet. Initially we faced some problem but now it feels great. Earlier we used to get orders only from America, Europe, Germany but now China has also started giving us orders for carpets," said Javed Ansari, Carpet Unit Owner.

The jubilation of the weavers is quite evident from their faces as they marvel at their own handiwork after completing such a humongous task.

"When we heard about the carpet we were a bit skeptical but we all got together and worked hard with cooperation and completed this carpet in three months'' time," said Mohammed Taha, a weaver.

Entirely hand made, this carpet is made of wool and costs around 1.5 million rupees.

The carpet has been made in 13 separate pieces, which will be assembled together in China.

Known as the ''Dollar Belt'', Bhadohi is world famous for its hand knotted carpets and hand tufted carpets, exporting carpets to many foreign countries. (ANI)

Global recession may spell doom for Banarasi saree industry

Global recession may spell doom for Banarasi saree industry
Wed, 11/05/2008 - 23:47                                               By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Nov. 5 : It appears the global meltdown being witnessed prominently in the financial markets is all set to devastate the famous Banarsi Saree industry, which is currently facing a tough time.

At one side the prepared saris are not getting sold off in abundance like before, on the other side the export orders appears to face a downward trend in near future.

The Silk industry, which was facing a tough time due to other factors, is likely to face a major jolt in the days to come leading to literal starvation of several people.

Be it handlooms or power looms both methods of preparing sarees are threatened by crisis following the present situation in which the people related to this industry are failing to get work even for whole month. They just work for 15 days these days, which affects daily wages of a lot of people here.

Exporters are also facing a tough time due to skewing demand for the Banarasi Sarees

"Business of Banarsi sarees has come down due to economic recession around the globe in many ways. Because all the fabrics made here are luxury items. All those who purchase these are the ones who are rich, either from India or from abroad. Among the most influenced are of the same class. People, who buy the stuff eventually, are actually influenced by this financial crisis. And therefore this influences us," said Maqbool Hasan, a Banarsi saree Exporter.

In the recent past, Banarsi sarees have been among the most sought after articles by women across the globe. The Banarsi fabric is an essential material, traditionally used for bridal and party wear clothes. .

Initially, Banarsi fabric used to be woven with real gold thread called Zari. The artisans, who designed the floral motifs as well as the full ''pallu'' of the sarees, cherished authority over intricate designing as well as colour combinations.

But these artists are today afraid of facing perhaps the toughest phase of their professional life. The suppliers are unable to meet the demand due to rise in inflation rate.

It is also feared that if nothing is done on time for survival of the artisans here, these already poverty-stricken people may have a real impossible time to carry on in this work.

"The business is not doing well. We work for 15 days and there is no work for another 15 days. Initially the labour was 500 rupees today, it is only 400 rupees. The inflation has come up and we have only 15 days work," said Javed, Weaver.

Business of Banarsi sarees had already been facing crises for different reasons for a few years and the recent global setback to business centers proved a body blow to the industry here.

"The market is not responding well, and the conditions here are not good. The prices of raw material are rising and material is not being sold. Hence, people are turning to other businesses. The art is facing threat of extinction," said Abdul Salam, a Banarasi Saree wholesaler.

The local artisans complain that though they length of the sarees has increased by one metre of late, meaning almost double work, but their wages have not increased a bit.

Today, the weavers and the artisans don''t get enough work. There were times when they were remain heavily occupied for entire month. But presently they don't have work beyond 15 days a month. (ANI)

Dozens injured as Samajwadi party activists clash with police in Varanasi

Dozens injured as Samajwadi party activists clash with police in Varanasi
                                                                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey
Thu, 10/23/2008 - 22:05

Varanasi, Oct 23 : Dozens including women were injured when Samajwadi party activists demonstrating against Mayawati Government clashed with police here today.

Police baton charged and used water canons to disperse the party workers who were staging a demonstration.

Samajwadi party, which was dislodged from power in the state by the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) during last elections, has been accusing Mayawati as "anti development."

As per reports, police asked party workers to be calm as they were raising slogans against Mayawati as part of their three-day statewide campaign.

Police arrested about 150 party workers during the clashes.

Those injured have been sent to a nearby hospital.

Samajwadi party launched the statewide campaign against the Mayawati government following cancellation of the land allotment for a much hyped rail coach factory in Congress party President Sonia Gandhi''s Rae Bareli constituency.

On Sunday, Mayawati had announced cancellation of land allotment, a day before Gandhi was to attend a rally for a ground-breaking ceremony.

State authorities had cited resentment among displaced farmers as the reason for the cancellation of the land deal.

Mayawati said that the railway coach factory in Rae Bareli was part of a political conspiracy to mislead the poor, specially the residents of the constituency.

On Monday, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court had directed the state and the Centre to maintain the status quo on the land allotted to the Railways for setting up of a rail coach factory in Rae Bareli.

Although the state government has reversed its decision, the Congress party''s hope of getting the project off the ground well before the Parliament elections are announced seems doomed. (ANI)

Seers in Varanasi offer prayers to River Ganges, vow to cleanse it

Seers in Varanasi offer prayers to River Ganges, vow to cleanse it
Thu, 10/23/2008 - 21:53.

Varanasi, Oct 23 : Seers in Varanasi offer prayers to holy river Ganges and vow to cleanse it of all the pollutants.

Residents, environmentalists and religious groups, who have formed a ''Ganga Sena'' (Ganges Army-for protection) to save the River Ganga from pollution, took part in the prayers that marked the completion of the first phase of action against pollution.

The plan of action has been divided into three phases. To begin with, the devotees said that they have succeeded in convincing the authorities about the steps that are required to be taken.

"It is a three-phased plan. The first step is to reach to the authorities and convince them to be a part of the action. The second stage is to complete the paper work and declare our fight against Ganges pollution. And the last one is to implement the plan of action and clean Ganges of the pollution. The first stage has been completed and therefore we are here to offer prayers," said Swami Avimukteshwaranand, chief of Ganga Sena.

Prayers were offered to 108 Hindu Goddesses as a token of thanks for helping them succeed in the first phase of their plan of action.

Some observe that problem of the river cannot be solved till the time water is not released from the Tehri dam.

"Some saints are celebrating, but the Ganges issue cannot be resolved till the time the flow of water does not increase in Kashi (Varanasi) and the water does not flow in from Tehri Dam," said Baba Nageshwarnath, a seer.

The principal sources of pollution are domestic and industrial wastes. Conservative estimates put the effluents flowing into Ganges at 1.7 billion litres each day, out of which
1.4 billion litres is untreated. Nearly 88 per cent of the pollution originates in the 27 cities that are located along the river''''s banks and the banks of its tributaries.

According to a recent official report, only 39 percent of the primary target of the Ganga Action Plan, which the Central Government had started in 1985, has been met so far.

The Ganga Action Plan (GAP) was initiated by the late Prime Minster Indira Gandhi, who called for a comprehensive survey of the situation in 1979.

After five years, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) published two comprehensive reports, which formed the base from which the action plan to clean up the Ganga, was developed. (ANI)

Mumbai Police comb Azamgarh in search of Abu Rashid

Mumbai Police comb Azamgarh in search of Abu Rashid
                               By Girish Kumar Dubey

Fri, 10/03/2008 - 15:09

Azamgarh (UP), Oct 3: The Mumbai Police today conducted a search in Azamgarh town of Uttar Pradesh to look out for Abu Rashid, the main suspect in the recent series of bomb blasts across the country.

According to police officials, the Mumbai Crime Branch and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Uttar Pradesh are jointly conducting search operation in Azamgarh.

Abu Rashid is allegedly one of the key members of the Indian Mujahideen (IM), and his name was mentioned by the five alleged IM members who were arrested in Mumbai. They are suspected to have connection with the recent Delhi, Ahmedabad and other blasts in the country since 2005.

Azamgarh came into limelight last week for all the wrong reasons. Once known for the Hindu-Muslim synergy and high intellect, the region is now being tagged as the new "breeding ground for the militants".

The intelligence authorities believe that the region has proved to be a 'fertile ground' for many militant outfits.

The Police have said that 13 school friends hailing from Azamgarh had planned and executed the recent serial blasts in New Delhi claiming at least 22 lives and injuring100.

While two militants were killed and one arrested during the fierce encounter, three more arrests were made on September 21. (ANI)

Development activities in Sonbhadra to curb Naxalism

Development activities in Sonbhadra to curb Naxalism
                                         By Girish Kumar Dubey

 Fri, 06/20/2008 - 23:21ANI

(Sonbhadra) U. P., June 20 : Development activities in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh hope to contain the spread of naxalism in the area.

Inhabited by a large proportion of tribals, the area has been home to Naxalites for a long time. The Naxalites usually hide in jungles and to effectively chase them, proper roads are a must.

Likewise, police stations are being upgraded alongside building of helipads to ensure a hassle-free transportation during any crisis.

Explaining this action plan, the Inspector General of Police (Varanasi Range), Praveen Singh said that the Union Government has earmarked ample funds for the projects.

"The central government has chosen some regions under the scheme for special infrastructure development in which Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra District is included. Under the scheme, roads, police stations, and helipad aids would be provided," said Praveen Singh, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Varanasi Range.

Experts believe that the Maoists spread their influence where people are backward. Keeping these aspects in view, infrastructure development in tribal belts has been given prime importance.

"Some anti-social elements are exploiting their feelings and provoking them to act against the law. Our endeavor is to connect these people to the mainstream and make them aware of the things that government is doing for them," Praveen added.

Local tribals, however, doubt whether such initiatives are likely to benefit them.

"The government has been turning a deaf ear towards us. There is no doctor, no teacher and no IAS officer to serve them. Where should tribals go? Only making roads so that police can reach on time during an attack is not the solution?." said Vibhumaha Patra, the coordinator of the Association for Democratic Rights.

Villagers say that despite much progress across the country, the condition of tribals in Sonbhadra hasn't improved. They still live without education, economic development, and proper infrastructure. The zest of the youth to live a better life has taken a violent shape because of the lack of support from administration.

"When the police turns a deaf year to our demands, we fight against such forces. We have to fight for our rights," said, a Naxalite requesting anonymity.

Tribals in Sonbhadra are hopeful that development projects will change the lives of the people in the area. (ANI)

Fire breaks out in an oil tanker in Uttar Pradesh

Fire breaks out in an oil tanker in Uttar Pradesh
                                                                      By Girish Kumar Dubey

  Sat, 05/31/2008 - 22:52

Chandauli (Uttar Pradesh), May 31 : A major tragedy was averted on Saturday when fire fighters in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh doused fire sparked in a petrol tanker parked near a petrol filling station.

The tanker was parked closed to an oil filling station.

According to eye witness the heat generated by the fire was so intense that people standing 200 meters away from it could feel it. Though nobody could identify how the tanker caught fire.

"I was passing by when I saw this petrol tanker parked near a petrol filling station caught fire. There was a definite chance of fire reaching the petrol filling station. The fire fighters arrived an hour after the incident," said Nandkishor Sarawagi, an eyewitness.

It took three-four hours for four fire fighting vehicles to bring the fire under control. No casualty was reported. (ANI)

Uttar Pradesh tribals demand forest rights

Uttar Pradesh tribals demand forest rights

  Mon, 03/17/2008 - 15:09.                                             By Girish Kumar Dubey

• India
• Uttar Pradesh

Sonebhadra (UP), Mar 17: Around 10,000 tribals in Uttar Pradesh's Sonebhadra District have demanded land and forest rights to sustain themselves.

" We have no land to till and are facing hardships. How long this plight will continue?" asked Sursati, a tribal woman.

Eminent social worker Medha Patkar also addressed the rally.

Over seven thousand women protesters took part in the event.

Over 40 million people live in the country's resource rich forest areas -- which include protected wildlife reserves and dense woodlands -- eking out a meager living from simple farming, picking fruit and collecting honey.

For generations, they have had no legal entitlement over the land or the use of forest resources.

Fluorosis cripples villagers in Sonbhadra village in UP

Fluorosis cripples villagers in Sonbhadra village in UP

Submitted by Mohit Joshi on Sat, 12/22/2007 - 19:10

Sonbhadra (Uttar Pradesh), Dec 22: A large number of villagers of Sonbhadra village in Uttar Pradesh are suffering from fluorosis due to the excessive fluoride content in the ground water that these villages draw to drink.

They are facing the risk of becoming handicapped due to excessive fluorosis Chopan, Dudhi and Myorpur and Babhni Blocks. The excessive fluoride in water has given rise to several orthopaedic problems.

"Water is the main problem in our village. Earlier, we didn't have any hand pump or well in our village. People used to drink water from open streams and have consequently become victims of deformities and diseases, " said Shambhu Prasad Patel, a villager.

Majority of the affected persons have to work hard to earn their daily bread. With weak bones, none of them is able to toil.

Since the villages are isolated, these hapless rural folk have no easy access to public health services. With some of them forced to travel over 50 kilometres for a public health centre and a hospital.

Authorities of the State Health Department however claim that health camps are being set up for the villagers.

"This problem is prevalent in nine villages of three blocks of the district because of excessive fluoride content in water. We have provided every facility for the treatment of the people who are handicapped or are suffering from any disease due to water, " said Dr. Ganesh Prasad, Chief Medical Officer of Sonbhadra District.

Another grouse of the villagers is that the government is not showing any concern as not even ten percent of the affected and handicapped persons have been issued certificates that they are handicapped.

Villagers hope that the concerned officials in the administration will take effective steps to stem the rot.

Fluorosis is a condition caused by the excessive intake of fluorine and is commonly of two types - Skeletal Fluorosis and Dental Fluorosis. As the names suggest, it first affects the bones due to excessive accumulation of fluoride in bones and the latter affects the teeth. (ANI)

UP lawyers strike work in protest against serial blasts

UP lawyers strike work in protest against serial blasts

Submitted by ANI on Mon, 11/26/2007 - 19:13
          By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Nov 26 : Lawyers in Uttar Pradesh struck work on Monday in protest against last week's serial bomb blasts in Lucknow, Varanasi and Faizabad.

"People here are sad, angry, and shocked. Like everywhere else, it is more so here because the blasts happened and people were killed. We will organise a mourning ceremony for the dead," said Rajmohan Tripathi, the President of the  District Bar Association.

The strike affected people visiting the courts for the hearing of their cases.

"The lawyers are on strike and I have travelled 300 kilometres for the hearing. I don't know if my case will be heard today or not," said Kamal Nain.

At least 15 people were killed and 80 injured in the blasts.

The explosions took place in and around court premises.
 
The Special Task Force, which is carrying out the investigation in the Friday's blast, have reportedly found traces of RDX at the blast sites.

The Uttar Pradesh police has released the sketches of two suspects whoever believed to be behind the blasts on Saturday.

The blasts came a week after the Uttar Pradesh police along with central security agencies busted a Jaish-e-Mohammed module, which wanted to target Rahul Gandhi. (ANI)

A Madarsa seeks to impart modern education,

*A Madarsa seeks to impart modern education,

                                                                                         By Girish Kumar Dubey,

New Kerala, January 26, 2006 http://newkerala.com/news.php?action=fullnews&id=95369

Varanasi: Madarsas, or the Islamic schools, have long been known for their religious syllabus around the world. But, a Madarsa in Varanasi , is offering lessons in patriotism and modern education to its students.

As India celebrates its 57th Republic Day, the loud voice of students in a Madarsa singing "Sare Jahan Se Achha" and "Vande Matram" makes one stop for a moment and take notice of the transformation taking place in the modern India.

"The best thing about this place is that members of both communities—Muslim and Hindu—are taking care of this Madarsa. Kids are being taught here about social and communal harmony," says Dr. Rajni Kant, Director, Human Welfare Association.

This Madarsa intends to prepare students who are able to compete with students of other schools of the country. Thus, it is not only teaching students national songs but also giving them modern education.

Interestingly, Hindus and Muslims are together running this Madarsa. Guardians are happy with the concept of Madarsa and they are confident that one day their kids will set an example to others.

"Our concentration is on to give modern education to children, according to the norms set by the Central and Uttar Pradesh Government. We want our children to become like A.P.J Abdul Kalam, who first became a scientist and then the President of the country, "says Mohammad Shakir Hussain, a parent.

"I wish to become a Doctor and want to serve my country. I have seen people dying of deadly diseases, I want to cure them," says Soni Bano, a student.

Madarasas are traditional educational institutions for the children of Muslims, especially for the poor children who can not afford to go to other schools.

But, in general, the main problem with Madarasa education has been that the students of these institutions cannot compete for mainstream jobs due to their obsolete study curriculum. All they can do is to aspire for jobs of imams and clerks in Wakf-run bodies.

Varanasi residents protest against theft at famous Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi residents protest against theft at famous Vishwanath Temple

                                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey

October 27, 2010

Residents of Varanasi took out a rally in protest against the administration's failure to prevent a robbery at the famous Vishwanath Temple.

Sources said that a week ago, a traditional Indian silver Trident was stolen from the temple despite tight security.

The residents said this incident was unacceptable as the temple administration spends huge amounts of money for its safety and security.

"If things are stolen from somewhere else, it is a different matter. Despite tight security here at the temple, a theft has occurred. Lot of money is being spent on safety and security measures of the temple. In spite of this, if 2.5 kilograms of silver trident is being stolen, then it is not just a matter of trident being stolen, it is stealing of a body part of the deity," said Avi Mukte Swaranand, a priest of the temple.

"Seven to eight days have passed, but the administration has not been able to find the thief or the trident. They have been unable to tell the people what steps are being taken in this matter, and therefore, it is natural for people to be angry," Swaranand added.

The residents have demanded that the police look into the matter with some urgency. (ANI)

Varanasi learn e-marketing to sell products

                                                                                      By Girish Kumar Dubey

On Thursday 2 December 2010, 12:01 AM

Varanasi, December 01 (ANI): Sari and carpet makers in Varanasi are all set to market their products through E-marketing programme.A voluntary forum named Human Welfare Society had taken the lead in training the small-scale weavers and sellers of the famed Banarasi Saris in internet operations and allied E-marketing techniques by conducting series of seminars.These seminar-cum-workshops are being organised in collaboration with Digital Improvement Foundation for Micro Manufacturers.

INDIA: Woman consumes 2 kilograms of sand every day in northern India

INDIA: Woman consumes 2 kilograms of sand every day in northern India

                                                                                             By Girish Kumar Dubey

A woman from Cholapur in Varanasi in Indias northern state of Uttar Pradesh is addicted to a rare habit of eating sand and she is continuing this practice for the past 40 years.
Krishnavati, who is 70 years old, was eating about 2 kilograms of sand daily along with her food for the past 40 years, which had become her habit.
I am eating sand for the past 40 years. There is my habit and there is no problem with me due to this, said Krishnavati.
The rare thing is that she did not have any problem in her stomach or with her health even after consuming this much amount of sand.
Initially, Krishnavatis family members were worried about her rare habit, thinking that it would cause serious illness to her.
But as she remained healthy, even they started encouraging her by bringing sand from market.
I have been noticing that she is eating about 2 kilograms of sand daily. Many times, she asked us to get her sand from shop.
She eats it and is not having any difficulty due to this. She is healthy even now, said Suryanath, Krishnavatis neighbour.
Doctors say that this is a psychological illness and need to be treated.
In our country, we consider everything unusual as miracle.
There is no such miracle in this case. This is well documented and is mentioned in books. During our MBBS (Master of Medicine and Master of Surgery) course also, we are taught about this. Its advanced studies are also done. This is a disease called Pica and its treatment should be done. As this lady is doing it for more than 30 years, the reason is psychological and should be treated by a psychologist, said Anurag Dixit, General Surgeon.
Pica is a disorder characterised by an appetite for non-nutritive substances like metal, hair, dirt, plastic and such things and is generally found in children and old age people.

Unique matrimonial meet organised in Varanasi city

 Added to Clipbin

Story:

The Kashi Aggarwal community of Varanasi in India's northern Uttar Pradesh state has come up with a unique idea of matrimonial meets.
In this jet age, when people are falling short of time in their regular life, this Community has come up with a time saving unique matrimonial arrangement as eligible bachelors and spinsters come with their family to look for a perfect match to the event.
Ashok Aggarwal, president of the Kashi Aggarwal Community said that this new way of finding bride and Read more

Unique matrimonial meet organised in Varanasi city

                                                              By Girish Kumar Dubey

The Kashi Aggarwal community of Varanasi in India's northern Uttar Pradesh state has come up with a unique idea of matrimonial meets.

In this jet age, when people are falling short of time in their regular life, this Community has come up with a time saving unique matrimonial arrangement as eligible bachelors and spinsters come with their family to look for a perfect match to the event.
Ashok Aggarwal, president of the Kashi Aggarwal Community said that this new way of finding bride and bridegroom would save time and money.
"In today's busy life schedule parents hardly get quality time to search for a perfect match for their children and the process of looking for a perfect bride or bridegroom also involves spending of a lot of money. That is why the Kashi Aggarwal Community has organised this meet where young girls and boys have come up with their parents from different places to look for suitable match for them," said Aggarwal.
Anish Singhal, father of an applicant said that he preferred this new method as it saves lot of time.
"We have come here as we have little time to search a perfect match. On coming here we are also able to meet many people. And I believe that the coming generation would be benefited by this medium, as it would save a lot of time. Therefore, this is a very good gathering," said Singhal.
Many at the matrimonial meet said that the gathering was convenient as well as better than the traditional method of bridegroom or bride search through news papers, matrimonial bureaus or relatives as it gives an opportunity to the applicants to meet wide range of people and select a perfect match for them. 

Tree burning for days retains green leaves in north India

Tree burning for days retains green leaves in north India

                                                                                     By Girish Kumar Dubey

In an unusual phenomenon, a neem (Margosa) tree in the holy town of Varanasi of India's northern Uttar Pradesh state continues to bear fresh green leaves despite a slow fire in its trunk since five days.

According to local media reports, residents of Varanasi first saw smoke coming from the tree-trunk five days ago.

The astonishing part is that the tree, believed to be hundreds of years old, is burning in the trunk, while its branches continue to bear new leaves.

"This tree is nearly 400 years old and is known by the name of Baba Harvansh, a Brahmin," said Ghanshyam, a local.

The residents said they have no clue how the fire took place, or why the tree has remained green.

"The interior of the trunk has caught fire. But the branches have fresh green leaves. We have still not understood why such a thing has happened," added Ghanshyam.

Hindus hold the neem tree sacred and there are many beliefs centred on this tree.

Thousand of ardent believers thronged the Varanasi town, to marvel at and worship the 'burning tree.'

But some residents took the slow fire in the tree as a bad omen, and called for a temple to be built.

"Yes, it's our wish to build a temple here. We are planning to collect money and build a temple for Harvansh Baba," said Jaglal.

The neem has been closely associated with the life and culture of people in the Indian sub-continent, and is used for its many medicinal qualities.

Intro

A neem (Margosa) tree in northern India continues bearing green leaves despite a fire in its trunk that has been burning for five days.

Shotlist

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (MAY 22, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

1. PEOPLE CROWDING AROUND A NEEM (MARGOSA) TREE

2. LEAVES BLOWING IN THE WIND

3. PEOPLE STANDING IN FRONT OF TREE

4. TREE TRUNK

5. TREE

6. TRUNK BURNING

7. PEOPLE PRAYING

8. SOUNDBITE (Hindi) GHANSHYAM SINGH, A LOCAL, SAYING:

"This tree is nearly 400 years old and is known by the name of Baba Harvansh, a Brahmin."

9. PEOPLE WORSHIPPING THE TREE

10. A BOY WITH AN INCENSE STICK

11. EMBERS IN THE TRUNK

12. SOUNDBITE (Hindi) GHANSHYAM SINGH, A LOCAL, SAYING:

"The interior of the trunk has caught fire. But the branches have fresh green leaves. We have still not understood why such a thing has happened."

13. EMBERS BURNING THE TRUNK

14. PEOPLE PEEPING INSIDE THE TRUNK

15. SOUNDBITE (Hindi) JAGLAL, A LOCAL, SAYING:

"Yes, it's our wish to build a temple here. We are planning to collect money and build a temple for Harvansh Baba."

16. PEOPLE WORSHIPPING THE TREE

17. PEOPLE SEEKING BLESSINGS FROM TREE

18. MILK BEING POURED ON THE TREE

19. A WOMAN POURING WATER

20. PEOPLE SEEKING BLESSINGS FROM THE TREE

Original Script Date

May 23 08:28 (29 days ago)

Modified Script Date

May 23 08:28 (29 days ago)

Script Version

1

Headline

Tree burning for days retains green leaves in north India.

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations  VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

MAY 22, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:25

Hindu, Muslim craftsmen prepare rich shroud for Sufi saint’s death anniversary

Hindu, Muslim craftsmen prepare rich shroud for Sufi saint's death anniversary
                                                                                          By Girish Kumar Dubey

In a country still rent by religious riots, Muslim and Hindu craftsmen in Varanasi of India's northern Uttar Pradesh came together to prepare a specially decorated shroud, which would be presented at a Sufi shrine in Ajmer of northwestern Rajasthan.

Through this collective effort, craftsmen of both religions said they hoped to promote a sense of brotherhood among each other.

According to craftsmen, volunteers from all religions also offered financial help to purchase raw material for the shround.

"Whether it's our Hindu, Muslim or Sikh brethren, all of them have put in their efforts (for this). They have taken out the time to come and work on this, and have contributed money as well; they have helped in every way to make this shroud. That's why we've used three colours - to signify brotherhood, unity and peace - to create this shroud, and we will take this shroud to Gharib Nawaz (Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti) and present it there," said Shahnawaz Akhtar, a Muslim craftsman.

Through this artistic amalgamation, the craftsmen said they hoped peace prevails in India.

"The message we want to convey is that we want brotherhood and peace to prevail in our nation, our world, and that is what the prayer of our community is when we go there - that we all live peacefully," said Mohsin Akhtar, a Muslim craftsman.

Once the shroud is finished, the craftsmen will take it to the dargah (shrine at the tomb) of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti in Ajmer at the end of May, in time for the saint's death anniversary, where it will be laid over his grave.

Intro

Hindu and Muslim craftsmen in India's northern Uttar Pradesh work together to weave and richly decorate a shroud for Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti, which would be presented at his tomb.

Shotlist

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (MAY 25, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

1. CRAFTSMEN PREPARING A SHROUD

2. MUSLIM CRAFTSMAN EMBROIDERING

3. CRAFTSMAN DOING FINISHING WORK

4. FACE OF A MUSLIM CRAFTSMAN

5. CRAFTSMAN DOING FINISHING WORK

6. CLOSE OF DECORATION

7. MUSLIM CRAFTSMEN DOING FINISHING WORK ON SHROUD

8. A CRAFTSMAN USING SCISSORS FOR FINISHING

9. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) SHAHNAWAZ AKHTAR, A MUSLIM CRAFTSMAN, SAYING:

"Whether it's our Hindu, Muslim or Sikh brethren, all of them have put in their efforts (for this). They have taken out the time to come and work on this, and have contributed money as well; they have helped in every way to make this shroud. That's why we've used three colours - to signify brotherhood, unity and peace - to create this shroud, and we will take this shroud to Gharib Nawaz (Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti) and present it there."

10. A HINDU CRAFTSMAN EMBROIDERING QURANIC COUPLETS ON THE SHROUD

11. A CRAFTSMAN SMOOTHING SURFACE OF SHROUD, WHILE ANOTHER DOES FINISHING WORK

12. THE RICHLY EMBROIDERED SHROUD

13. TWO CRAFTSMEN EMBROIDERING THE SHROUD

14. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) MOHSIN AKHTAR, A MUSLIM CRAFTSMAN, SAYING:

"The message we want to convey is that we want brotherhood and peace to prevail in our nation, our world, and that is what the prayer of our community is when we go there - that we all live peacefully."

15. CRAFTSMEN DOING FINISHING WORK

16. CRAFTSMEN AT WORK

17. A MOTIF PICKED OUT IN BEADS

18. ANOTHER MOTIF PICKED OUT IN BEADS AND RHINESTONES

19. CRAFTSMEN DOING FINISHING WORK ON THE SHROUD

Original Script Date

May 26 11:24 (26 days ago)

Modified Script Date

May 26 11:24 (26 days ago)

Script Version

1

Headline

Hindu, Muslim craftsmen prepare rich shroud for Sufi saint's death anniversary

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations   VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

MAY 25, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:16

Farmers in northern India call off their agitation on receipt of written assurance from authorities

Farmers in northern India call off their agitation on receipt of written assurance from authorities
                                              By Girish Kumar Dubey

Farmers protesting against land acquisition in the Chandauli district of India's northern Uttar Pradesh state called off their agitation on Tuesday (May 31).

This was after they received a written assurance from the district administration that their grievances would be addressed in right earnest.

After an inconclusive meeting to resolve the issue with the farmers on Monday (May 30), the District Magistrate Vijay Kumar Tripathi wrote a letter to the Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Planning in the state secretariat recommending cancelling of land acquisition in the village.

On receipt of this letter, Deena Nath, the leader of the farmers' movement announced the cessation of the protest and he read it out to the fellow villagers and farmers.

"With regard to our demand of the land in Katesar (village), we requested the District Magistrate to review the implementation of Sections IV and VI (four and six). We also requested the District Magistrate to provide us a copy of the order and he did so. The order is in accordance with people's faith and feelings. So we call off our agitation," informed Deena Nath, a farmers' leader.

Meanwhile, L D Bharti, Circle Officer, Chandauli said that the farmers are happy with the assurance spelt out by the administration.

"The demonstration has now ceased and the officials have announced about its end. And the situation is under control. After the order of higher officials a written document has been provided to them. All the people of the 'Kisan Sangharsh Samiti' (farmers' organisation) are satisfied with this. Their demands have been forwarded in written by the district officer to the government," said L D Bharti.

The farmers had been protesting since a week over the issue of land acquisition by Varanasi Development Authority (VDA).

The farmers hailed their victory by raising slogans and dancing in jubilation.

According to media reports, farmers were demonstrating in Katesar village since May 24. More than 1500 farmers are allegedly affected by the proposed land acquisition by the VDA.

Intro

Farmers protesting against acquisition of their arable lands in Chandauli district of India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh, call off their agitation after concerned authorities give them a written assurance about their problems being looked into amicably.

PLEASE NOTE THIS EDIT CONTAINS CONVERTED 4:3 MATERIALS

Shotlist

CHANDAULI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (MAY 31, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

1. HUNDREDS OF FARMERS GATHERED AT A SITE

2. A FARMER LEADER ADDRESSING FELLOW VILLAGERS AND OTHER FARMERS

3. POLICE PERSONNEL STANDING

4. FARMERS SITTING

5. MEETING IN PROGRESS

6. POLICE PERSONNEL SITTING AMID THE PROTESTING FARMERS

7. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) DEENA NATH, A LEADER OF FARMERS' MOVEMENT, SAYING:

"With regard to our demand of the land in Katesar (village), we requested the District Magistrate to review the implementation of Sections IV and VI (four and six). We also requested the District Magistrate to provide us a copy of the order and he did so. The order is in accordance with people's faith and feelings. So we call off our agitation."

8. YOUNGSTERS STANDING

9. FARMERS GATHERED AT THE SITE

10. OFFICIALS MAKING AN ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE FARMERS OVER A LOUDSPEAKER

11. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) L D BHARTI, CIRCLE OFFICER, CHANDAULI, SAYING:

"The demonstration has now ceased and the officials have announced about its end. And the situation is under control. After the order of higher officials a written document has been provided to them. All the people of the 'Kisan Sangharsh Samiti' (farmers' organisation) are satisfied with this. Their demands have been forwarded in written by the district officer to the government."

12. FARMERS CELEBRATING

13. FARMERS HAILING SLOGANS AND CHEERING

Original Script Date

May 31 16:04 (21 days ago)

Modified Script Date

May 31 16:04 (21 days ago)

Script Version

1

Headline

Farmers in northern India call off their agitation on receipt of written assurance from authorities.

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations  CHANDAULI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

MAY 31, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:10

Dead fishes, garbage in India’s sacred river keeps devotees from holy dips

Dead fishes, garbage in India's sacred river keeps devotees from holy dips

                                                                                            By Girish Kumar Dubey

Hindu devotees from across India thronged the banks of River Ganges in the holy city of Varanasi of northern India's Uttar Pradesh for a holy dip on the occasion of Ganga Dussehra, a festival in honour of the river.

On the first 10 days of June, the Ganges is worshipped as a goddess by Hindus.

But locals have found the river contaminated badly just ahead of the event.

Varanasi's famous riverbanks are full of garbage, piles dead fishes and polythene bags, making the site unfit for prayers and holy rituals.

Locals blame high toxicity of the river's waters for the death of fishes in large numbers.

"Fishes die because of the contamination of the river water due to toxic chemicals. Fishes swim to the bank for fresh air but die due to toxic chemicals that pollutes the water," said Ram Singh, a local.

Dead fishes, garbage and wooden scraps from boats float on the river surface, too, making it unfit for holy dips.

The stench from the rotting fish has also polluted the area, and devotees have found it difficult to go ahead with their rituals.

"Contaminated water flowing into the river from the leather processing industries in the northern India contaminates the water of the Ganges due to which fishes die," added Shyam Sundar, a devotee.

Ganga Dussehra is celebrated every year by Hindu devotees who come from every corner of the country to mark the mythological descent of the Ganges from heaven to earth. The festival has a unique place in Indian consciousness.

Intro

Garbage and dead fishes keep devotees from taking holy dip in River Ganges in India's northern Uttar Pradesh on the occasion of the festival of Ganga Dussehra.

Shotlist

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (JUNE 02, 2011) (ANI NO ACCESS BBC)

1. BOATS ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER GANGES

2. LOCALS WORKING ON RIVERBANK

3. BOATS BY THE RIVERBANK

4. GARBAGE LYING ON RIVERBANK

5. DEAD FISH FLOATING ON THE WATER

6. GARBAGE AND DEAD FISH FLOATING ON THE WATER

7. DEAD FISH WITH POLYTHENE BAGS FLOATING ON THE WATER

8. BOATS AND GARBAGE ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

9. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) RAM SINGH, A LOCAL, SAYING:

"Fishes die because of the contamination of the river water due to toxic chemicals. Fishes swim to the bank for fresh air but die due to toxic chemicals in the water".

10. DEAD FISHES FLOATING ON THE WATER

11. DEAD FISHES WITH GARBAGE ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

12. DEAD FISHES WITH POLYTHENE BAGS FLOATING ON THE WATER

13. GARBAGE LYING UNDER THE BOAT

14. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) SHYAM SUNDAR, A DEVOTEE, SAYING:

"Contaminated water flowing into the river from Kanpur contaminates the water of the Ganges due to which fishes die".

15. MAN WASHING CLOTHES ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

16. LOCALS SITTING AND WASHING CLOTHES ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

17. LOCALS WASHING CLOTHES ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

18. SAFFRON FLAGS HOISTED ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

19. MAN TAKING A DIP IN THE RIVER WHILE WOMAN WASHING CLOTHES BESIDE HIM

20. LOCALS ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER

21. TWO WOMEN WITH A CHILD TAKING A DIP IN THE RIVER.

Original Script Date

Jun 02 10:25

Modified Script Date

Jun 02 10:25

Script Version

1

Headline

Dead fishes, garbage in India's sacred river keeps devotees from holy dips.

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations   VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

JUNE 02, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:00

Hundreds of devotees take holy dip in River Ganges to mark Ganga Dussehra

Hundreds of devotees take holy dip in River Ganges to mark Ganga Dussehra
                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey

Hundreds of devotees took a holy dip in the sacred River Ganges on Saturday (June 11) to mark the occasion of Ganga Dussehra festival on which the river is worshipped as a mother and a goddess.

Devotees thronged the banks of the Ganges at Allahabad and Varanasi cities in India's northern Uttar Pradesh state since early in the morning to offer prayers and perform rituals.

According to myth, the Ganges descended to earth from heaven on this day, and taking a dip in its waters leads to devotees escaping the cycle of rebirth and attaining salvation.

"The River Ganges descended on earth on this day. Taking holy dip in the confluence of rivers (Ganges, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati) in itself is very holy, but on this occasion when River Ganges descended, the dip is even more holier and devotees taking dip are ensured of getting salvation," said Krishna Tiwari, a devotee.

"The festival of River Ganges is celebrated with great fervor. At the confluence of rivers we performed several rituals and prayers. Several programmes have been organised to celebrate this occasion," said Rajan Mishra, a priest.

Regarded as a celestial river originating in heaven, legend holds that the Ganges was gifted to mankind in answer to the great penance undertaken by King Bhagirath, after whom the river is also called Bhagirathi.

Intro

Hundreds of devotees take a holy dip in the sacred Ganges river in northern India to mark the occasion of the Ganga Dussehra festival in which the river is worshipped as a mother and a goddess.

Shotlist

ALLAHABAD, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (JUNE 11, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

1. THE RIVER GANGES

2. DEVOTEES GATHERED AT THE BANKS OF RIVER GANGES TO OFFER THEIR PRAYERS

3. DEVOTEES BATHING IN THE RIVER

4. A DEVOTEE TAKING HOLY DIP

5. A DEVOTEE OFFERING HIS PRAYERS TO RIVER GANGES

6. A PRIEST PERFORMING 'AARTI' (OFFERING OF LAMPS)

7. ANOTHER PRIEST PERFORMING AARTI

6. PRIESTS CHANTING HYMNS

7. A DEVOTEE CLAPPING HIS HANDS WHILE CHANTING HYMNS

8. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) KRISHNA TIWARI, A DEVOTEE, SAYING:

"The River Ganges descended on earth on this day. Taking holy dip in the confluence of rivers (Ganges, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati) in itself is very holy, but on this occasion when River Ganges descended, the dip is even more holier and devotees taking dip are ensured of getting salvation."

9. A DEVOTEE SWEEPING THE BANKS OF THE RIVER

10. A DEVOTEE CARRYING A POT OF WATER OF THE GANGES ON HIS HEAD

11. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) RAJAN MISHRA, A PRIEST, SAYING:

"The festival of River Ganges is celebrated with great fervor. At the confluence of rivers we performed several rituals and prayers. Several programmes have been organised to celebrate this occasion."

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (JUNE 11, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

12. DEVOTEES GATHERED AT THE BANKS OF RIVER GANGES

13. DEVOTEES STANDING AT THE BANKS

14. MEN TAKING HOLY DIP

15. A WOMAN TAKING HOLY DIP

16. DEVOTEES WADING IN RIVER GANGES

17. AN OLD WOMAN TAKING HOLY DIP

18. A MAN PRAYING

19. WOMEN OFFERING PRAYERS WHILE STANDING IN THE RIVER

20. A WOMAN OFFERING HER PRAYERS TO RIVER GANGES

21. WATER FLOWING OUT FROM A POT IN DIRECTION OF THE RISING SUN

22. HUNDREDS OF DEVOTEES AT THE BANKS OF RIVER GANGES

Original Script Date

Jun 11 08:10

Modified Script Date

Jun 11 08:10

Script Version

1

Headline

Hundreds of devotees take holy dip in River Ganges to mark Ganga Dussehra.

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations     ALLAHABAD/VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

JUNE 11, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:53

Hindu festival dedicated to River Ganga celebrated at Varanasi in north India

Hindu festival dedicated to River Ganga celebrated at Varanasi in north India
                                                                           By Girish Kumar Dubey

The Hindu festival of Ganga Dussera dedicated to the River Ganga was celebrated with religious fervour at Varanasi, the temple city in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh on Saturday (June 11).

Thousands of devotees and even tourists flocked at the various ghats (bathing locations) along the banks of River Ganga that passes through the city to take part in the religious rituals.

According to Hindu scriptures, the River Ganga descended to earth from heaven on this day, and the devotees believe taking a dip in its waters leads to freedom for the devotees from the cycle of rebirth and attaining salvation.

"Every living being has a relationship with the River Ganga. All the scriptures prove this fact that all creatures have their links with Ganga. And the Ganga Dussera festival is being observed here in the city of Kashi (Varanasi). It is a marvel in itself. All creatures will be blessed from this," said Pandit Devi Nandan Dwivedi, a priest.

A hallmark of the Ganga Dussera is the delightful sight of the priests performing Aarati (ceremonial lamp offering) soon after dusk hours.

Amid these religious rituals, many of the devotees expressed their concern over the polluted state of the Ganges.

"Everything is going on the resurrection of Ganga. All the programmes are going on not only at the national level but also on a global plane. There is a need to do the right things in the right directions so that Ganga can be protected," said Bhawani Nandan Yati, a Hindu monk.

Regarded as a celestial river originating in heaven, legend holds that the River Ganga was gifted to mankind in answer to the great penance undertaken by King Bhagirath, after whose daughter the river has been named.

Source

ANI

Restrictions

NO ACESS BBC

Intro

The Hindu festival of Ganga Dussera dedicated to the River Ganga is celebrated with utmost religious fervour at Varanasi, the temple city in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

Shotlist

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA (JUNE 11, 2011) (ANI-NO ACCESS BBC)

1. DEVOTEES GATHERED FOR THE FESTIVAL OF GANGA DUSSERA, ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER GANGA

2. A GROUP OF PREISTS PERFORMING RITUALS IN THE RIVER

3. A PREIST POURING

4. FLOWERS FLOATING IN THE WATERS OF RIVER GANGA

5. A GROUP OF PREISTS POURING MILK INTO THE RIVER WATER

6. A GARLAND FLOATING ON THE WATER

7. PREISTS HOLDING CEREMONIAL LAMPS

8. A BANNER READING 'GANGA DUSSERA MAHOTSAV'

9. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) PANDIT DEVI NANDAN DWIVEDI, A PREIST, SAYING:

"Every living being has a relationship with the River Ganga. All the scriptures prove this fact that all creatures have their links with Ganga. And the Ganga Dussera festival is being observed here in the city of Kashi (Varanasi). It is a marvel in itself. All creatures will be blessed from this."

10. HUGE GATHERING OF DEVOTEES AND ALSO TOURISTS WATCHING THE GANGA DUSSERA FESTIVAL

11. A GROUP OF PREISTS BLOWING CONCHES

12. A BOY PLAYING A DRUM

13. A CROWD OF DOVOTEES SEATED

14. (SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) BHAWANI NANDAN YATI, A YOGI, SAYING:

"Everything is going on the resurrection of Ganga. All the programmes are going on not only at the national level but also on a global plane. There is a need to do the right things in the right directions so that Ganga can be protected."

15. PREISTS PERFORMING THE GANGA AARATI, THE CEREMONIAL HINDU OFFERING OF LAMPS TO DIVINITY

16. A PREIST OVVERING THE AARATI

17. A GROUP OF PRIESTS PERFORMING AARATI RITUAL

18. A MAN PLAYING A DRUM NEAR A PRESIT WITH A LAMP

19. PEOPLE SEATED NEAR PREISTS WITH LAMPS

Original Script Date

Jun 12 00:21

Modified Script Date

Jun 12 00:21

Script Version

1

Headline

Hindu festival dedicated to River Ganga celebrated at Varanasi in north India.

Services

Subcon Extra

Locations   VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Dates Shot

JUNE 11, 2011

Sound

NATURAL WITH HINDI SPEECH

Duration

2:01