Rag pickers launch a weekly tabloid in Varanasi

Rag pickers launch a weekly tabloid in Varanasi

 

By Girish Kumar Dubey
Varanasi, September 28 (ANI): Young rag pickers in India's holy city of Varanasi have launched a handwritten newspaper, highlighting the problems faced by them as well as other children in the society. The credit for this unique newspaper titled Baccho Ki Awaz goes to Vishal Bharat Sansthan, a city-based NGO. The young rag pickers themselves are reporters and compilers of various stories.
Added: 09/28/2009

Largest Muslim congregation begins in Uttar Pradesh

Largest Muslim congregation begins in Uttar Pradesh
Tuesday, January 1, 2008

                                                               By Girish Kumar Dubey

Azamgarh (Uttar Pradesh), Dec 31 (ANI): A large number of Muslims have gathered in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh District for the Alami Ijtema, the largest international congregation.

This time, congregation is being held in Sherwan, a nondescript hamlet, where discussion will take place on ways to combat targeting of the community worldwide.
The Sherwan village now boasts of a 4.6 million square foot shamina that can accommodate the gathering and includes hostels, clinics and cellular service providers.  

Besides devotees from all over India, delegates from Saudi Arabia, France, Canada and the UK are taking part in the meet.  

The delegates at the meet said the main problem confronting the religion was that the followers did not follow the tenets of Islam in their daily life.

"All the people living in this world who fears Allah and believe in Allah and follows the tenets of religion set by the god. Everybody who offers Namaz (prayers) and show allegiance to Deen (faith) should try to become honest, start loving each other and stop the bloodshed and violence," said Riyaz Ahmed from Aligarh.  

Anwar Hussain from Meerut, said:  "Any Muslim living anywhere either in Pakistan, America or Iraq. If they are persecuted anywhere then its impact is felt in Azamgarh, because we are one family and believe in one faith."  

The meet also turned out to be a mass marriage venue with 500 couple getting married at a simple ceremony.  

The three-day meet concludes on January 1.

Similar congregations were held in Jaunpur, Allahabad and Barabanki in the 90s.  The largest international congregation is the brainwork of global Islamic movement Tablighi Jammat.

Benazir portraits fly in the sky in Varanasi

Benazir portraits fly in the sky in Varanasi
Monday, January 14, 2008

                                                        By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Jan.14 (ANI): Several ardent fans of former Pakistan premier Benazir Bhutto in Varanasi have paid their heartfelt tributes to the assassinated leader on the occasion of Makar Sankranti and Lohiri festivals by kites. 

Shocked and aggrieved over Benazir's killing, these kite makers and fliers found the two major Hindu festivals celebrated on Sunday and Monday, as the perfect occasion to express their love for Benazir, who was a leader of masses beyond geographical confines. 

Varanasi's Dal Mandi market and its neighbourhood in the holy city were flooded with kites. But the most sought after kites were the ones bearing a picture of Benazir Bhutto on them.

"The demand of the kites that have a picture of Benazir on them is high in the market this year because of the incident that has happened to her in Pakistan. So the people are demanding these kites more to pay tribute to the slain Pak leader," said Chand, one of the shopkeepers.

Though there are a variety of kites right from Britain to China available in the market, the kites with Benazir's picture on them were sold like hotcakes.

"Benazir died recently and we are paying our tribute to her in this fashion through kites," said Saud Ahmad, one of the local kite-flyers.

The festivals of Lohri in Haryana and Punjab, Uttarayan in the west, Makar Sankranti in North India and Pongal in South India when people of all the faiths celebrate together. But this was the first occasion when the kite-flyers used the festive occasion to pay tribute to a political leader from Pakistan. (ANI)

Koreans on a hugging campaign in Varanasi

Koreans on a hugging campaign in Varanasi
Tuesday, January 22, 2008

                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Jan 22 (ANI): The Korean students of Gyanjoo University are
spreading the message of love by hugging poor people in Varanasi, as a
part of their "Free Hug Campaign."

They believe that their method can eradicate social divide by giving
dignity to the deprived.

"Hugging each other is a small step to understand each other without
speaking, without being violent. It may work over all castes but only
if they hug each other more and more," said Frank, a student,

The Korean students spoke passionately about the urgent need to bring
a change in the mindset of the people so that they could think beyond
barriers of castes.

The students not only hugged the people but also washed the feet of
those belonging to Musahar caste, which is considered one of the lower
social groups.

"If we need to focus on anything at this point, it is the mindset of
people. If we can change the mindset of the people and people start
understanding each other, then it would be perfect," said Saisna Inko,
a resident.

The Korean students have planned to visit 40 countries to propagate
the message of brotherhood in the memory of those fellow countrymen
who participated in the fight in 1985 to end the military dictatorship
in Korea. (ANI)

Protesting seers compel Spicejet officials to apologise

Protesting seers compel Spicejet officials to apologise
Wednesday, January 23, 2008

                                                              By Girish Kumar Dubey

 

Varanasi, Jan 23 (ANI): Protesting seers here compelled officials of the Spicejet airline to sack errant workers and apologise for their misconduct.

The issue reportedly surfaced on Monday when a prominent seer, Avimukteshwaranand of Vidya Mutt, protested against the lewd comments passed on a teenage girl by some Spicejet employees.

Errant workers jeered the sage when he protested against their behavior. This enraged his followers who gathered at the Babatpur Airport here on Tuesday and raised slogans.

The protestors were pacified only after the Spicejet sacked the four accused and tendered an official apology.

"We have already suspended those who were involved in the misconduct. The seer has forgiven us," said Nalin Srivastava, Station Manager, Spicejet.

"I am happy that the Spicejet people have realised their mistake and they have sacked the four employees and apologized in writing. They have also promised to keep the pride of Varanasi and the honour of females," said Avimukteshwaranand. (ANI)

French tourists perform puja at Varanasi for world peace

2:12:2007                             By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Dec 2 (ANI): A group of French tourists offered prayers for
world peace by performing Hindu rituals in Varanasi on Sunday.

The tourists, led by a French citizen, who is famous amongst his
followers as Guruji, offered prayers and performed certain fire
rituals for a better and sane world with peace prevailing all around.

Guruji has been visiting India along with his followers annually for
many years in his quest for quintessential and spiritual ideals. He
has dedicated his life to Sanatan Dharma.

"India is at first the country of spirituality and love. The key word
here is love, Bhakti (religiosity), devotion and so on so forth," said
Guruji.

He has established a Hindu monastery in the French capital Paris and
has around 5500 followers who have joined him in search of eternal
truth and answers of their spiritual queries.

Explaining her attachment towards India Isabela, a follower of Guruji
said, "Now, many people want to come back to spirituality. And, may be
some people are attracted by a lot of things they have in the West.
But this is really magical and holy land."

The performance of Yajna (fire rituals) for world peace by these
exotic devotees may or may not bring peace to the world but their
faith and devotion may attract many more tourists from abroad to
attain mental peace.

The culture of Varanasi is deeply associated with the river Ganges and
the river's religious importance. The city has been a cultural and
religious centre in northern India for thousands of years and remains
a thriving tourist and spiritual destination of the country. (ANI)

Fluorosis cripples villagers in Sonbhadra village in UP

22:12:2007                                               By Girish Kumar Dubey

Sonbhadra (Uttar Pradesh), Dec 22 (ANI): 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)

Demolition drive in Varanasi sans notice invites public ire

Demolition drive in Varanasi sans notice invites public ire
Sunday, December 30, 2007

                                                      By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Dec 29 (ANI): At least three people, including a policeman, were injured today when angry mob protesting against the authorities carrying out a demolition drive without prior notice clashed with police here.

The demolition of illegal encroachments in Varanasi's Chowkaghat area without any notice angered the people.

After initial argument with the demolition squad, the mob started pelting stones, in which a police official was injured.

The clash took an ugly turn when the police resorted to baton-charge the protestors. The mob also set a police camp on fire.

Residents termed the demolition drive without notice as "unconstitutional."

"No notice was issued to shopkeepers. If we were informed in advance then we would have been prepared. The whole act is unconstitutional," said Bhaiya Lal, a resident.

"It's all wrong. At least they should have served us a notice. Their action cannot be justified," said Tara Devi, another resident.

Residents claimed that many structures that were being demolished were not illegal. (ANI)

Varanasi witnesses anti water pollution campaign on "Nag Nathiya" festival

                             By Girish Kumar Dubey
Friday, November 16, 2007

Varanasi, Nov.15 (ANI): People in Varanasi were made aware about water pollution affecting the holy River Ganges on Wednesday, as the holy city marked "Nag Nathaiya", the over 400 years old festival here. 

Apart from the religious aspects, the prime purpose of performing "Nag Nathaiya" was to highlight the rising pollution in River Ganges. 

It is said that that many decades ago, the organisers of "Krishna Leela" and "Nag Nathaiya" festival had a sort of premonition about the deterioration which the River Ganga may have to endure.

According to Prof. Kaushal Kishore Mishra of Benaras Hindu University (BHU) said that the Nag Nathaiya festival has been spreading awareness about the problem which they might face due to contamination, if not checked on time. 

"The condition of Ganges is deteriorating day by day. This "Nag Nathaiya" based on Krishna Leela is basically meant for this purpose in contemporary scenario, said Prof. Kaushal Kishore Mishra.

Enactment of "Nag Nathaiya"--depicting the taming of the dark and venomous cobra with several hoods by Lord Krishna--was the event's hallmark.

Legend has it that Lord Krishna accidentally threw a ball in the River Ganges while playing with his friends. To retrieve the ball, he dived into the river and fought with "Kala", the dark cobra that had created havoc in the neighbourhood.

Krishna ultimately defeated the ferocious cobra and danced on its hoods denoting his superiority over the serpent. The entire episode has since then been named as "Nag Nathaiya" and marked as a festival by devotees. 

Thousands of devotees led by the priests performed rituals and witnessed the enactment of "Nag Nathaiya". The common belief is that devotees' wishes are fulfilled on this particular day and hence the mass participation of public.

"Since childhood, I am visiting this festival. I have seen wishes of people coming true here. And since then my faith has further deepened," said Ashok Pandey, a devotee. (ANI)
--MP

Private radio station in Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh

23:11:2007                                                            By Girish Kumar Dubey

Ghazipur (Uttar Pradesh), Nov.23 (ANI): An undergraduate villager in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur District has become the cynosure of all eyes after setting up a private radio station here.

Twenty-year-old Arun Kumar, a resident of Ravtipur Village, realised his dream with personal savings and contacts. He wanted to keep his fellow villagers posted with the current news, views and trends.

"I wanted to set up my own radio station and I did it. It took me four years to make it operational," said Arun Kumar.

Villagers are all praise for Arun's unbelievable feat that has done proud to everyone here.

"With his limited resources, this boy is doing a great thing. We all are very happy with his efforts," said Bhanu Singh, a villager.

Since childhood Arun was fond of music and despite being an under graduate he set up a radio station.

He used his audio compact disc (CD) player, a few condensers, and an antenna to set a radio station that entertains and informs villages residing within an area of three kilometres every day for six hours between 10 a.m and 4 p.m.

Since Arun's radio station lacks modern gadgets, the services are yet to improve.

The availability of "Ravtipur Radio Station" has benefited about 3,400 residents of Ravtipur Village, as it has offered a channel which broadcasts local news, as against All India Radio, which has very little of local news.

Meanwhile, the District administration has assured Arun all help, if he wants to seek a license.

"We have heard about this private radio station. We have asked this person that he could seek a license from home control, the District administration will certainly help him," said Ritu Maheswari, District Magistrate, Ghazipur. (ANI)

UP lawyers strike work in protest against serial blasts

UP lawyers strike work in protest against serial blasts

   26 nov 2007                                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey
Varanasi, Nov 26 (ANI): 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)

Muslim girl translates Hindu religious texts

Muslim girl translates Hindu religious texts

By Girish Kumar Dubey

Tuesday, October 2, 2007 | MP
Varanasi, Oct 2 (ANI): A Muslim girl in Varanasi has set-out on an endeavour to translate Hindu religious texts, including 'Hanuman Chalisa' and 'Ramcharitmanas' into Urdu.Nazneen Ansari hopes her work will help people of both faiths to understand each other better.She has already translated Hanuman Chalisa, a Hindi poem praising Lord Hanuman, into Urdu and is working on Ramcharitmanas, a Hindu epic."I have done this to bring people closer to each other.

 

There are many people who cannot read Hindi. Now, they can read Hanuman Chalisa in Urdu and can understand the moral of the story. It is my humble endeavour to help people in understanding each other's religion and culture," Nazneen said. Rajiv Dwivedi, a professor of History in Mahatma Gandhi Kashi VidyapithUniversity said that Nazneen's effort desired to be known widely. "

 

There is a large segment of the society that needs peace. Neither the media highlights nor politicians push them. Nazneen's work will boost the spirit of peace loving segment of our society," Dwivedi said.Great India Institute, an NGO, plans to get her work published so that her work reaches the laymen."Presently, Nazneen is busy in translating Ramcharitmanas.

 

Once it is complete, we will get both Urdu Hanuman Chalisa and Ramcharitmanas published," said Puja, chief executive officer of Great India Institute.Mahabharata, another Hindu epic was translated into Persian during Akbar's reign under the title of Razamnama. (ANI)

Book on Durga written in blood

Book on Durga written in blood

By Girish Kumar Dubey 

Thursday, October 4, 2007 | MP
Varanasi, Oct 3 (ANI): Ramesh Chandra Dhawan of Varanasi is writing the book "Durga Saptashati" using his blood.It has become a daily affair for Dhawan, to sit on the banks of the Ganges and write three pages of the Durga Saptashati.

 

He believes that his effort will promote peace in the world. An extremely thin and bony person, Dhawan said, "There should be no epidemic, not be any bloodshed and peace should flourish world over." In the last six months,

 

Dhawan has been able to pen 560 pages and hopes to write other Hindu scriptures in the future.The Durga Saptashati is edicated to three Goddesses - Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth, Saraswati, Goddess of knowledge and Kali, ferocious form of GoddessDurga.Durga Saptashati is a mantra of 700 verses on the Mother Goddess.

 

 It forms a part of the Markandeya Purana, one of the 18 important Puranas of Hinduism. It is also known as Chandi Path, Devi Mahatmya or just Saptashati. (ANI)

13 feared dead in stampede at Mughalsarai

13 feared dead in stampede at Mughalsarai

By Girish Kumar Dubry

Thursday, October 4, 2007 | MP
Mughalsarai, Oct 3 (ANI): At least 13 women were feared dead and several others injured in a stampede at Mughalsarai railway station on Wednesday.

The mishap took place when two trains arrived simultaneously on platform number five and six, Mughalsarai Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) H K Kala said. Women were climbing stairs when the stampede took place, Kala added. Additional DRM Harindra Rao said the injured have been rushed to hospital, and two or three of them were discharged after treatment.

The women were going to Varanasi to take bath in the Ganges on the occasion of "Putrajaya", a local festival. (ANI)

Child prodigy praised for her tailoring skills

Child prodigy praised for her tailoring skills

                                                         By Girish Kumar Dubey

Thursday, October 11, 2007 | MP
Mirzapur (Uttar Pradesh), Oct.11 (ANI): At an age when kids are found making new friends at the neighbourhood or school, five-year-old Sheelu Mishra of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh is teaching students of her mother's age. Youngest of five of her siblings, Sheelu, a student of Lower Kindergarten, had to take up the job to support her family. Today,

 

she teaches tailoring to girls quite older to her for two hours daily.She learnt the skills from her mother Asha when she used to teach tailoring-skills to others at their tailoring-centre. "My mother used to teach other girls and that's how I picked up tailoring. I can make blouse, petticoat, under garments, simple frock, umbrella frock, pyjamas, pant, and shirt," said Sheelu.It's been one year since Sheelu has been teaching. Asha, Sheelu's mother, says she is so happy that her daughter picked up tailoring skills at such a young age."When I was unwell, I was worried how would I run my tailoring-centre.

 

At that time she (Sheelu) said she would do it. I asked her how you will do it. She said I have learnt all and can sew anything. I asked her to show and she made a cutting on the paper," said Asha.Sheelu's students say that they have complete faith in her and they don't mind learning the skills of tailoring from a child."When I came here for first time I asked auntie (Sheelu's mother Asha) for tailoring skills. But she was not keeping on well and there was no one to handle teaching.

 

 At that time Sheelu (the kid) said she would teach me," said Suman Pandey, Sheelu's student.Sheelu, at present, teaches twenty four girls in the age group of 12 to 42 at the tailoring center. And, she charges rupees 50 per student besides the enrollment fees of rupees sixty five. (ANI)

Home Guards hit streets demanding better pay

Home Guards hit streets demanding better pay

                                                   By Girish Kumar Dubey

Friday, October 26, 2007 | MP
Ghazipur (UP), Oct 25 (ANI): Home Guard personnel took to the streets of Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district on Thursday with begging bowls in their hands demanding regularisation of their service and better pay package. The Home Guard personnel are sent on duty for three months in a year to assist the police in performing their duties.

 

They said that they were not able to actively discharge any work apart from policing because sometimes they were called in for urgent tasks and officers charge them with indiscipline. "Some of the Home Guard personnel are working as labourers in order to survive.

 

We have placed all our demands before the government and made them aware of our problems. In our department, even expressing our genuine problems and feelings is termed as misbehaviour, " said Shivsagar Pandey, a home guard. These Home Guard personnel in Khaki uniforms are deployed to ensure security of ministers and are on duty at police stations also. However, they have to buy their uniform, shoes and belt themselves. "The person recruited for this service holds a secure, respectable job. This is not just an ordinary service, but a respectful job. The motto of the Home Guards is to serve the country selflessly.

 

 We are working on that only," said Jyoti Kumar Raizada, a Home Guard commandant. The government has recruited them mainly to look after the arrangements during elections, but has not done anything to ameliorate the pitiable condition in which these unfortunate Home Guards live. According to the records, a total of 1,20,000 home guards are in Uttar Pradesh, of which, only 20,000 guards are sent on duty and 8,000, are sent to private places for work.In Ghazipur, the total number of home guards is 1500 of which, only 300 are on duty. Similarly in Varanasi, only 750 guards out of 3900, in Mirzapur 350 guards out of 1200, in Sonbhadra 300 out of 700 guards and in Badohi 300 out of 600 guards are given work. As a result, at least 80 per cent of the Home Guard personnel remain idle during the year. (ANI)

denounces atrocities committed on children around the world

Children's parliament denounces atrocities committed on children around the world                                      By Girish Kumar Dubey

2009-05-24 15:20:00

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Varanasi, May 24 (ANI): In a unique parliament made up of children in the age group of five to fourteen years, who assembled in Varanasi on Saturday, took stock of atrocities committed on children worldwide. The children registered their protest against the practice of training children to become terrorists in Pakistan and also forcing the young kids to become beggars elsewhere in the world. "The Children's Parliament in Varanasi is the first elected children's Parliament in the world. The representatives have been chosen through election. This is the demand of the children that United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations should stop the practice of children being used as terrorists. Their safety and nutrition should be taken care of which are their fundamental rights. This was the topic of discussion today," said Rajiv Srivastava, Owner, Vishal Bharat, Sansthan. The budding parliamentarians read out speeches, debated and raised slogans to condemn the demolition of houses of Rubina Ali and Azhar Ismail, the child actors of Oscar winning movie 'Slumdog Millionaire'. It may be recalled that abodes of these child artistes were demolished in Mumbai as part of a slum clearance drive. "The houses of Rubina and Azhar have been demolished. Children are being sold in Sri Lanka. Children are being trained to become terrorists in Pakistan. This is what we have discussed today," opined Tazim Ali, a member of Children's Parliament, Varanasi. The proceedings of the children's parliament continued for two hours and an agenda was prepared to protect the rights of the children around the world. (ANI) SEARCH

Children's Parliament in Varanasi to give voice to kids' rights

Children's Parliament in Varanasi to give voice to kids' rights

 Wednesday, May 26, 2010, 16:15 [IST]

                                                              By Girish Kumar Dubey

 

May 26 (ANI): A unique parliament comprising children in the age group of five to 14, organized the nomination process for the first ever elections

of Children's Parliament in Varanasi city on Wednesday.

large number of children turned up for the nomination process.

 

The children discussed their manifestoes, which enumerated the atrocities committed on children worldwide.
"Today, we are hosting the nomination procedure for the children's parliament. It's a type of parliament, which is the first of its kind in the whole world. In no country, anyone is so enlightened about the rights of the children as it is here in India. And it is for the first time in India we tried to analyze the minds of the children," said Rajiv Srivastava, Chairman, Vishal Bharat Sansthan (Great India Organization), which houses the children's parliament.

The city has been divided into six zones for the elections slated to be held on June 4.

The candidates represent regional Bal Vikas Party (Children's Development Party), Bharatiya Baccha Party (Indian Children's' Party) and Bal Janata Party while three are independent candidates.

Prospective children's representatives displayed a lot of enthusiasm to project fellow kids' concerns.

"We are ready to stand in the elections for children and win. We will try to lower the school fees, reduce the costs of books and stationery. We will provide clean drinking water. We will try to reduce the crime rate and also provide food to the school children, which they are not getting," said Tazim Ali.

The budding parliamentarians read out speeches, debated and raised slogans against everyday problems such as child hunger, domestic violence, and caste discrimination.

The children's parliament aims at protecting the rights of the children around the world. (ANI)

Juvenile bank infuses hope among Varanasi's rag pickers

Friday, May 23, 2008 11:21:43 PM by admin ( Leave a comment )

                                   By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, May 24 (ANI): Rag pickers, who were once addicted to drugs, are now interested in putting their earnings in a bank for juveniles that has come up in Varanasi.
A self-help group called the Vishal Bharat Sansthan has started this bank with the objective of ensuring social security for these rag pickers.
"The problem with these rag pickers is that they do not have any social security. Even if they need just 10 rupees, they have to approach moneylenders, and due to the dearth of funds, parents pawn off their kids for 500 rupees. Now, these children earn 20-25 rupees every day," said Rajiv Shrivastava, the President of the Vishal Bharat Sansthan.
"So for them, we have started a children's saving scheme (Bal Bachat Kosh) under the Vishal Bharat Sansthan, which is managed by these children, who are working here as managers and on other various posts. And today, they are saving 10-15 rupees everyday which is ensuring their social security," added Shrivastava.
The bank opens up an account with a mere 50 paise, and thereafter monitors each of the rag pickers to see that they add to their respective kitties.
Osama, who earns 15-20 rupees daily by selling the garbage picked from the roadsides, says: "Earlier, I used to spend my earnings on smoking and other things. But now whatever I earn by picking garbage, I deposit it in the bank. And with enough savings, I will buy books and will study in school."
These savings have certainly taken these children from harmful habits.
At the end of every week, the deposited money is transferred to a Government-owned commercial bank, which has also opened accounts in the name of these children.
Considering the popularity of the bank, there are plans to open at least 10 more branches in the state, thus allowing these rag pickers to at least visualize a better tomorrow. (ANI)

Magsaysay award winner Rajendra Singh kicks off tour for Ganga conservation

                                                                      by Girish Kumar Dubey

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New Delhi/Varanasi,Oct. 1 (ANI): Magsaysay award winner and environmentalist Rajendra Singh began a three-month tour on Friday to constitute 'Ganga Panchayats' in towns and villages along the river Ganga.

Buzz up!

The tour has been planned for conservation

of river Ganga and to spread awareness among the common people about the

The councils are spread over 90 towns and 1,000 villages between Gaumukh in Uttarakhand and Ganga Sagar in West Bengal.

"It is a journey for the conservation of the River Ganga. We believe that the society will fulfill its responsibility towards the rebirth of Ganges and save it from pollution and other impurities," said Singh.

Meanwhile, Harpal Singh Rana, another activist of the Ganga council said the cleaning of the river is not impossible without public support.

"Till the time the public is not aware of their responsibility regarding the River Ganga, the government cannot work alone. Many programmes have been made before on the Ganga and crores of rupees have been spent on the projects, but the condition of the river is getting worse, day-by-day," said Rana.

"It is a programme for the common people to make Ganga Panchayat, so that they can understand their responsibility towards it and actively contribute in the conservation of the river," he added.

The high pollution in the Ganga affects 400 million people, who live close to the river. (ANI)

Watch Kashi Vishwanath live on television in Varanasi

                                                    By Girish Kumar Dubey

Devotees of Lord Shiva in Varanasi can now ave an audience of the Jyotirlinga at the world famous Kashi ishwanath temple while sitting at home. Thanks to the local irect to home (DTH) service provider.

Varanasi, Feb.4 : Devotees of Lord Shiva in Varanasi can now ave an audience of the Jyotirlinga at the world famous Kashi ishwanath temple while sitting at home. Thanks to the local irect to home (DTH) service provider.

Lord Shiva's Jyotirlinga is enshrined at this famous temple.

The new facility commenced this past week (Thursday) after the ata Sky, the local DTH service provider, had an arrangement with he temple authorities for its subscribers here. The company has aid an annual royalty of rupees 35 lakhs (3.5 million rupees).

The latest option will save time and energy of the devotees who therwise had to wait for hours in long queues, passing through arious security check-points, to have Darshan (glimpse) of the ain deity of Kashi Vishwanath temple from a distance. It will lso enable devotees to have a close view of the deity.

This facility, however, will be available only with Tata Sky nabled television sets.

"This is a historic day for all of us. In the entire north India his is for the first time that devotees from any part of the orld can see the pious 'Jyotirlinga' of Kashi Vishwanath Temple ive on their TV sets," said Rajesh Tripathi, Religious Endowment inister of Uttar Pradesh.

"Of course, such a facility is available at Shirdi's Sai Baba emple and Sidhi Vinayak temple in Maharashtra. In south India, he temple of Shri Balaji at Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh also has his facility," Tripathi added.The daily telecast will include the coverage of daily rituals of he temple besides enabling an open view of the presiding deity. his facility, however, will be available only with Tata Sky nabled television sets. evotees have hailed the new facility, as now onwards they will ot have to be a part the huge crowd and hustle bustle, which sed to defeat the whole meaning of worship that needs utmost erenity.

"There is so much of a crowd and I don't have to go there. It is ctually very comfortable. It is very good," said Abhishek Singh, devotee.

Prior to this telecast, Kashi Vishwanath was brought live to the evotees via internet but it was more of static visuals. That ebsite had limited approach, as only computer literates could ave access to it through internet.

As against all these, Tata Sky has lent a far wider coverage, hich in turn would mean devotees would be able to offer prayers rom homes with 'live' deity in view.

The Kashi Vishwanath temple is widely recognized as one of the ost important places of worship in Hindu religion and most of he leading Hindu saints, including Adi Sankaracharya, amakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda, Goswami Tulsidas, wami Dayananda Saraswati, Sikh Guru Gurunanak Dev are known to ave visited this temple.

As per Hindu mythology, visiting Kashi Vishwanath temple and a ath in the river Ganga is believed to lead one on a path to oksha (liberation).

It is said that the merits earned by the darshan of other yotirlinga located in different parts of India accrue to devotee y a single visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. ANI

 

Read more: http://www.andhranews.net/India/2008/February/4-Watch-Kashi-Vishwanath-32135.asp#ixzz13R505cyW

Will Uttar Pradesh’s Fossils park itself become a ‘fossil’?

Will Uttar Pradesh's Fossils park itself become a 'fossil'?

                                     Submitted by Girish Kumar Dubey on Tue, 12/25/2007 - 19:38.

Sonbhadra (Uttar Pradesh), Dec.25: The fossils park at Salkhan Village in Uttar Pradesh is regarded one of the oldest of its kind in the world. But, sadly, it is lying in dilapidated state due to administrative apathy shown towards a priceless treasure.

Located in the Sonbhadra District of Uttar Pradesh, the fossil park is in a pitiable condition due to inadequate care. There is nobody to maintain the trees.

The tree fossils, which are covering 25 hectares of park, date back to Meso-Proterozoic period. They are said to be about 140 crore years old. The park is three times larger than the Yellow Stone Park of America that earns millions of rupees.

Researchers from America, Germany, France and many other countries have visited the park in the past to trace details related to these fossils but no improvement could be noticed due to prevailing conditions.

"It felt good to watch fossils. But it felt very bad on noticing there was no one to take care of them from security point of view. It is a part of our heritage and it's necessary for us to take care of it," said Nisha, a visitor to the fossil park and a Banaras Hindu University student.

"This is a priceless possession not only for India but for the entire world. These are 140 crores old fossils which are called Elgi fossils. And these fossils not just tell the story of creation of Earth but the story of creation of life too. That's why these are priceless," said Vijay Shankar Chaturvedi, a local journalist.

"The fossils are lying neglected due to administration. Neither the Government nor concerned officials are making any arrangements for their safety. There exists a board set by the Forest Department which carried all instructions on it. But those instructions have been removed by people," said Vijay Vineet, a local villager.

"People have also shattered the fossils. The sharp boundary structure that was covering the park has also been dismantled and stolen by thieves. We feel disappointed here that the park is being neglected," Vineet added.

According to the Forest Department, the Government is not paying any attention towards the ancient park.

"Salkhan fossils are very old. These fossils are only in India and that too in Salkhan. There should be proper arrangements for its safety. The thieves have stolen the sharp wires covering the boundary; no action has been taken for it," said R. K. Singh, Range Forest Officer at Gurma in Sonbhadra District.

"The Forest Department has provided the budget for the construction of the road. In few more days, we will arrange for an information centre. We don't have the budget to hire people. We have already appealed many a times for this," said R. K. Singh, Range Forest Officer at Gurma in Sonbhadra District. (ANI)

Uttar Pradesh villagers visit Sonbhadra to get rid of spirits

                                                                   By Girish Kumar Dubey

Pannugunj (Sonbhadra) (U.P), July 6: The annual Sonbhadra fair which was held earlier this week was frequented, among others, by hundreds of people who wanted to rid themselves of evil spirits.

Pannuganj village was the venue where people possessed by 'evil spirits' gathered to be treated by witch doctors, locally known as 'Ojhas'.

The Ojhas claim to possess supernatural powers that 'enable' them to drive away evil spirits. They say that they are just 'helping' people in trouble. The 'spirit' cannot be got rid of by modern medicine, they say.

Sukhi Ram, organiser of the fair and an exorcist says: "I have come here to solve the problem of the people troubled by spirits."

People attending the fair believed that the evil spirits cause a sudden change in a person's social behaviour.

Shukalu, one such 'patient' said: "Earlier this year, I started beating people and do strange things. That's why I have come here."

Social organisations have been working in the area to rid the people of the superstitions, who are largely uneducated.

Sociologists say many of the Ojhas are con artists, making money out of gullible and vulnerable people.

ANI

Read more: http://www.andhranews.net/India/2007/July/6-Uttar-Pradesh-villagers-7102.asp#ixzz131EVsQ9b

Treating illness with gemstones

Treating illness with gemstones
newkerala.com
By Girish Kumar Dubey
June 11, 2007

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.

Uttar Pradesh artists take up to eco-friendly idols for Durga Puja

Uttar Pradesh artists take up to eco-friendly idols for Durga Puja

Wednesday - Sep 29, 2010, 06:46pm (GMT+5.5) ANI

                                                                        By Girish Kumar Dubey

 

Varanasi (ANI): Ahead of Durga Puja idols of gods are being made here from environment-friendly materials to save the River Ganga from pollution. The idols are immersed in it at the culmination of the festival.

"This year we started using natural colours. We use turmeric for yellow colour and leaf for green colour. We are using natural colours to prevent our holy river Ganga from getting polluted," said Chitranjan Pal, an artist.

Earlier, the idols used to be made from materials like plaster of Paris, which do not dissolve easily and reduced the oxygen level in the water, resulting in the deaths of fish and other aquatic animals.

But the idols this year are being made of clay, and they are also being colored with natural colours, which are safe and will not pollute the River Ganga.

"We make colours out of natural things so that there are no chances of pollution or infection," said Sushant Kumar Pal, an artist.

Muslim craftsmen make effigy of Ravana in Varanasi

Muslim craftsmen make effigy of Ravana in Varanasi

2010-10-16 18:00:00

                                                                          By Girish Kumar Dubey

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 By ANI
Ahead of the Dussera festival, artisans belonging to the Muslim community are preparing a giant effigy of Ravana in Varanasi.
Along with, Ravana, gigantic effigies of his brother Kumbhakarna and son Meghnath are also created and burnt to culminate the ten-day Dussera festival.

Craftsmen said over 60 to 80 feet effigies of Ravana and his family members are being made and about one lakh rupees are spent.
"Here we have created 80 feet effigy of Ravana, 70 feet tall Meghnath (Ravana's son) and Kumbhkarna (Ravana's brother) of 60 feet. The cost in making these is about one lakh rupees," said Sajjad Khan, a craftsman.

Labourers working on the effigies said that they are working on these gigantic structures since a month.

"We don't consider religion as a barrier in offering our services. It is an occasion of communal harmony and we are very excited to contribute by making these effigies and despite being Muslims do the work of Hindus," said Mushtaq Ahmed, a craftsman. (ANI)

Shiv Sena protest against Valentines Day celebration in Varanasi

                                                                                                     By Girish Kumar Dubey
Friday, February 13, 2009 7:17:43 AM by ANI ( 1 comment )

Varanasi, Feb 13 (ANI): Shiv Sena activists here today staged a protest against Valentine''s Day celebration.

The activists said that they viewed celebrations of Valentines Day contrary to Indian ethos and a proof of the growing influence of western culture.
They said, they had issued an "appeal" to all the gift shop owners, restaurants, hotels and florists in the city, and have asked them to refrain from doing anything on Valentines Day.

Valentine''s Day has become increasingly popular in India in recent years, led by retailers selling red balloons, velvet pillows and teddy bears to mark the festival.
Hardliner groups say Valentine''s Day celebrations are a symbol of "cultural corruption" but that has not dampened the enthusiasm of youngsters who throng stores to buy Valentine''s Day gifts and cards. (ANI)

BJPs Joshi files nomination from Varanasi

Tuesday, March 24, 2009 5:03:07 AM by ANI ( Leave a comment )      By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Mar 24 (ANI): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Murli Manohar Joshi on Tuesday filed his nomination from the Varanasi constituency for the upcoming general elections.

Joshi handed over his papers to the District Electoral Officer and District Magistrate of Varanasi Ajay Kumar Upadhyay.

The BJP leader thanked people for their support and said he would work to regain the old glory of the city.

He is the first candidate to file nomination papers from the constituency.

The polls in Varanasi will be held in the first phase on April 16.

Joshi filed his nomination a day after an FIR was lodged against him on March 23 for allegedly violating prohibitory orders under section 144 and model code of conduct.

It was stated that Joshi had held a public meeting at Company Bagh in Maidagin area on March 22 without seeking permission of the Administration. (ANI)

Arjun Singh condemns Lalu's remark against Varun Gandhi

Tuesday, April 07, 2009 9:12:48 AM by ANI                              By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, Apr 7 (ANI): Senior Congress leader and Union Minister Arjun Singh on Tuesday condemned Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad's controversial statement made against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Varun Gandhi, saying legal action should be taken against him if the statement fell under the purview of criminal law.

"Only Lalu can speak like this. What else can he speak, only such statements are expected of him. If the statement of Lalu Prasad comes under the purview of Criminal Law, legal action must be initiated against him," Arjun Singh said.

Addressing an election meeting in Bihar's Kishanganj on Monday, Lalu Yadav had said, "Had I been the country's Home Minister, I would have crushed Varun Gandhi under a roller and destroyed him without caring for the consequences of his hate speech against Muslims".

When asked about slapping the National Security Act (NSA) on Varun Gandhi, Singh said the decision was totally wrong.

"The action against Varun Gandhi under the NSA was totally wrong, but the alleged statement of Varun Gandhi against the Muslims was also not acceptable," he added. (ANI)

Central, North India reel under heat wave and water crisis

Sunday, May 03, 2009 1:43:00 AM by ANI ( Leave a comment )

By: Girish Kumar Dubey,

Varanasi/Gaya/ Raipur, May 3 (ANI): With the soaring temperature breaking several old records, vast stretches of Central and North India remain in the grip of a scorching heat wave while the masses woes have been further complicated by water shortage.

In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, the temperature is hovering over 40 degrees Celsius.

Consequently, people are taking dips in the River Ganges to beat the heat while many others visit roadside kiosks selling water and fruit juices.

"There is intense heat, temperature is at 40-45 degree and water does not quench thirst and so I am drinking mango juice," said Manoj Kesri, a Varanasi resident.

Meanwhile, the popular pilgrim and tourist city of Gaya in Bihar also witnessed similar scenes with scant traffic on the roads as people preferred to stay indoors and avoid the scorching sun.

Experts have attributed this harsh onset of summer to global warming.

The dry northerly winds from these areas are adding to the woes of the people in the Gangetic plains.

The summers season in India brings with it problems of water scarcity and power cuts.

In Raipur, Madhya Pradesh, locals are annoyed about the weather, which has forced them to endure extreme conditions and acute water shortage.

However, the resourceful among the masses manage to buy water at exorbitant rates.

"The heat is increasing and has already broken all past records this summer. All the wells in the area have dried up and there is acute water shortage. Some people are buying a can at 10 rupees. We are dependent on water tankers provided by the civic agencies," said Anwar, a local resident of Raipur, Madhya Pradesh.

Summers in our country pose a difficult time as soaring temperatures also leads to a significant loss of people and livestock

The months of May and June are considered to be the hottest in the country. However, with the mercury hovering in the range of 40 degrees Celsius during the month of April itself, the people are left staggering and wondering at the vagaries of nature. (ANI)

More at : Central, North India reel under heat wave and water crisis http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/feature/central-north-india-reel-under-heat-wave-and-water-crisis_100187710.html#ixzz12SBVaRnI

Devotees take out procession in Varanasi on 'Nirjala Ekadashi'

Wednesday, June 03, 2009 3:22:00 AM by ANI                                                 By Girish Kumar Dubey

Varanasi, June 3 (ANI): The banks of the river Ganga in Varanasi reverberated with Vedic chants as hundreds of devotees gathered for a procession on the occasion of 'Nirjala Ekadashi', one of the toughest fasting days dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver.

The devotees carried 1008 silver and clay urns filled with water from holy rivers in the country, symbolically integrating all the 12 'Jyotirlingas' of the country by conducting the 'Jalabhishek' of Kashi Vishwanath.

The aim of the procession this time was not just religious. The organisers also wanted to raise awareness about the present state of the Ganga.

"The aim is to get the holy water to Kashi, to be submerged in the river Ganga to maintain the sanctity of the river. Ganga is diminishing by the day, and we are also trying to raise awareness regarding the state of the river through this yatra," said Anand Tulasyan, coordinator, Kalash Yatra.

Nirjala refers to 'without water'; hence on this day staunch Vishnu devotees who undertake this fast do not drink water or eat any food for the day.

The fast begins at (Ekadasi) sunrise and at sunrise next day (Dwadasi). (ANI)

Thousands of migratory birds in Varanasi

                                                                 By Girish Kumar Dubey

Tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh can enjoy bird watching to their hearts content in Varanasi these days, as thousands of migratory birds are flocking the holy city making it their second home for the next few months.

Varanasi, Dec.5 : Tourists visiting Uttar Pradesh can enjoy bird watching to their heart's content in Varanasi these days, as thousands of migratory birds are flocking the holy city making it their second home for the next few months.

These birds generally inhabit this place from the beginning of November and stay till winters. And, the city plays host to these exotic migratory birds who arrive here to avoid an unbearable harsh winters back at home.

It offers a visual delight to watch these beautiful birds gliding over the River Ganga (Ganges) chirping and keeping their eye on fish for food.

"We also have them (the birds) in France next to the sea, next to the ocean. People from here tell me that they come here for several months. It is beautiful with sun rising and seeing them in the Ganga floating around," said Angela, a French tourist.

For people visiting Varanasi city from different parts of the country and abroad, it's a major captivation.

"The birds begin to come in the last week of October and the first week of November. People flock for a glimpse of the winged beauties. You can see people feeding them (the birds)," said Rajendra Dubey, a local priest.

India's natural and man-made wetlands are second home to hundreds of thousands of migratory birds during winter season and migrate to warmer climates as temperatures dip and lakes start freezing in their native lands.

The annual migration of rare and exotic birds from Siberia, the high altitudes of Afghanistan, China, Central Asia and Northern Europe begins around September, with most birds nestling across the country till March every year. By Girish Kumar Dubey

ANI

Read more: http://www.andhranews.net/India/2007/December/5-Thousands-migratory-24998.asp#ixzz12S8RbiLr

Azamgarh youths look to Arab countries for jobs at any cost

Monday, September 29, 2008 7:01:16 AM by ANI ( Leave a comment )

                               By Girish Kumar Dubey

Sarai Meer, Azamgarh (Uttar Pradesh), Sep.29 (ANI): While Uttar Pradeshs Azamgarh district has hogged news headlines after arrest of some youth in relation to Delhi bomb blasts, few are aware that there are not many career opportunities for most of them locally And, they are craving to take up jobs in Arab countries.
Almost every second young man in the area has a strong craving to go abroad for greener pastures in life. And, their desperation makes them a vulnerable lot.
"Azamgarh district has nothing to offer. No mode of income at all. This would obviously encourage the youths either to turn towards robbery or else go abroad in search of job opportunities. Youth of the city have no other options left but to go abroad for income," said Iftkhaar Ahmad, Principal, Shibli National College, Azamgarh.
Youngsters say the wish to take up employment in abroad because their native place has nothing much to offer them for livelihood.
"We are not leaving for abroad just like that. If government offers us employment, we have no interest in going abroad and leaving our families behind. We know that we are not even respected in those alien countries. Not just Muslims but even Hindus go abroad in search of work as the value of foreign currencies is higher in our country," said Mohammad Nazab Sayed, one student of Shibli National College.
Besides, the projection of this place being a home to terror-mongers has outraged the local youth. But local residents are holding discussions among them over the reasons that have brought disrepute to this place.
In a few localities or areas like Sarai Meer in Azamgarh, the families lead a good life. Finding luxury cars zooming around in the lanes here is only a surprise for the newcomer.
Such a lifestyle is unthinkable for others living in the nearby areas. For, virtually every family in Sarai Meer has at least one member employed in foreign countries like Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates.
These youth employed in foreign countries send back a part of their income to their families. Therefore, Sarai Meer has the largest number of banks than other parts of Azamgarh.
" We have no idea why the youth of this city are wanting to go abroad. But I must say that from the year 2002 the number of the people going abroad has increased," said Ashwini Kumar Shrivastava, District passport officer, Azamgarh.
The number of people seeking passport to go abroad from the city has also increased.
According to the passport office statistics, the number of people applying for passport in 433 in 2002, 446 (2003), 1,237 (2004), 3282 (2005), 4397 (2006), 5000 (2007) and by September 25, the figures had already risen to 6,568. Police, however, perceive such a growing trend with suspicion without negating its probable fallouts.
"I think the situation of Azamgarh needs to be controlled carefully so that the youth of the city are not diverted towards the wrong path," said Vijay Kumar, the Deputy Inspector General of police in Azamgarh. It is a matter of concern that the youngsters in lower middle-class families here are a vulnerable lot. And, in the wake of being unemployed for long, the desperation to go abroad at any cost to take up any job may have its repercussions in future. (ANI)