Ayodhya's Ram Mandir Inauguration: A Worldwide Celebration from Mumbai to New York

Ayodhya's Ram Mandir Inauguration: A Worldwide Celebration from Mumbai to New York

By Author

Published on January 27, 2024

In a remarkable display of cultural unity and spiritual fervour, the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has been celebrated not just in India but across the globe. From the iconic Times Square in New York to the shores of Trinidad and Tobago, the echoes of 'Jai Shree Ram' have resonated, marking a historic moment in Hindu spirituality and Indian culture.

Mumbai's Iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link Joins the Festivities

In India, the celebrations were widespread and vibrant. Mumbai's Bandra-Worli Sea Link, a marvel of modern architecture, was adorned with an illumination depicting Lord Ram, symbolizing the city's joyous participation in the event. The display marked the eve of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, a pivotal moment in the inauguration of the Ram Temple.

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The Diaspora Celebrates in the United States

In the United States, the Indian diaspora gathered at Times Square in New York, where the Pran Pratishtha ceremony was live-screened. The crowd, dressed in traditional attire, waved saffron flags and performed dances, turning the heart of Manhattan into a slice of Indian heritage. Similar celebrations were seen in Fairfax County, Virginia, and Los Angeles, where events like car rallies brought together thousands to honor this momentous occasion.

A Caribbean Connection

The island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, home to a significant Indian-origin population, also witnessed grand celebrations. Over 5,000 people attended an event marked by cultural performances and the singing of Ram bhajans, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of this historic event.

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A Global Echo of Devotion

The global celebrations underscore the cultural and spiritual significance of the Ram Mandir's inauguration. The event was not just a local or national occurrence but a global phenomenon, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a shared expression of joy and reverence.

A Moment of Triumph and Reflection

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ram Temple and unveiled the idol of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, he emphasized the unifying nature of this event. His message highlighted the triumph of spirituality and the humility that comes with it, resonating with millions worldwide.

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This widespread celebration of the Ram Mandir consecration, from the bustling streets of Mumbai to the energetic avenues of New York and beyond, marks a significant chapter in the cultural and spiritual narrative of India, transcending geographical boundaries and uniting people across the globe in a shared heritage and joy.


India–UK Free Trade Agreement Eases Visas and Boosts Professional Mobility

India–UK Free Trade Agreement Eases Visas and Boosts Professional Mobility

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 12, 2025

India and the United Kingdom have officially concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), ushering in a new era of professional mobility and bilateral trade between the two nations. Signed on May 6, 2025, the agreement aims to streamline visa procedures and support Indian professionals looking to work in the UK.

The FTA provides simplified entry routes for a range of professionals, including contractual service providers, business visitors, investors, intra-corporate transferees, and independent professionals like yoga instructors, musicians, and chefs. The UK has expanded the list of eligible occupations, but applicants must meet stringent criteria regarding experience and qualifications.

One of the most notable provisions is the waiver of national insurance contributions for UK-based companies that second Indian employees. This exemption applies for the first three years, reducing costs for employers and encouraging more cross-border professional placements.

While critics in the UK have raised concerns about possible impacts on local jobs and increased immigration, British authorities have clarified that this FTA does not alter the country’s points-based immigration system. According to Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, the agreement strictly pertains to temporary business mobility, not permanent immigration.

The long-term benefits are significant. Bilateral trade is projected to grow by GBP 25.5 billion (approximately USD 34 billion) annually by 2040, signalling stronger economic cooperation between the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world.

Overall, the India–UK FTA is a major step toward mutual economic growth, offering smoother pathways for Indian professionals and fostering deeper trade relationships between the two nations.


Tourism Crashes as Operation Sindoor Sparks 90% Booking Cancellations in North India

Tourism Crashes as Operation Sindoor Sparks 90% Booking Cancellations in North India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 11, 2025

The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, India's military strike on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has sent shockwaves through the domestic tourism industry. With rising uncertainty, flight shutdowns, and safety concerns, Northern India’s tourism has come to a standstill as nearly 90% of bookings have been cancelled.

Peak summer travel plans have been upended, especially in popular destinations across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. Airports in Jodhpur, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Jammu, and Kashmir, all close to the international border, have suspended civilian operations till May 10, severely disrupting travel schedules.

“People who were already vacationing in Himachal Pradesh have cut short their trips. The North is totally out of the question now. Nearly 95% of bookings for northern destinations in May have been called off,” said Virendra Shah, a travel consultant.

The ongoing panic has left tour operators and travel consultants struggling. "This is the worst May we’ve seen in years," one operator said, pointing to widespread refund requests and a sharp drop in new enquiries.

Even tourists currently on vacation are opting to play it safe. Prashant Sharma, vacationing in Uttarakhand, said, “We had a packed itinerary from Nainital, Jim Corbett, and Mussoorie to Rishikesh, but we’ve cancelled everything except Nainital. We are heading back as planned from Dehradun.”

Experts say the mood of the traveller has been shaken. “This conflict has not just disrupted logistics; it has disrupted sentiment. Even journeys planned a month from now are being cancelled out of fear,” said Ankit Bajaj, a travel expert. He added that the industry is facing a 70% revenue loss for existing bookings this season.

The uncertainty is spilling over to international travel as well. While a few tourists are still flying to the UK and Spain, many are cancelling trips to Turkey, Dubai, Bali, Indonesia, and the Maldives at the last minute.

Sanjeev Chhajer, Chairman of GCCI’s tourism committee, added, “Domestic air travel is badly hit due to airport shutdowns. However, international travel is relatively steady, except for a few cancellations by government employees. Turkey and Azerbaijan have seen more cancellations, while others are less affected.”

With no clear timeline on when normalcy will return, the travel industry braces for an extended lull during what was expected to be a high-revenue summer.


Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 9, 2025

As part of Operation Sindoor, commercial flights have been suspended at 27 airports across north, west, and central India. The move has led to widespread disruptions in air travel, with over 430 flights cancelled across carriers like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Air India Express.

To ensure safety, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued new advisories mandating heightened airport security across the country. All passengers are now required to undergo Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC), and visitor access to airport terminals has been suspended until further notice.

Aviation authorities have also instructed airports to ensure that all CCTV systems are fully functional and have directed the deployment of air marshals based on priority and random selection.

Airlines have issued urgent travel advisories.

  • Air India posted: Passengers are advised to arrive at airports at least 3 hours before departure. 

  • SpiceJet posted: Check-in closes 75 minutes prior to flight. and Akasa Air urging passengers early arrival and limiting cabin baggage to one handbag up to 7 kg.

  • All passengers must carry valid government-approved photo ID for airport entry.

List of Airports Closed under Operation Sindoor:

Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar (Rajkot), Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, Bhuj.

According to flight tracking services like Flightradar24, the airspace over India’s western corridor from Kashmir to Gujarat, currently shows minimal civilian air traffic, highlighting the scale of the shutdown. Airports are expected to resume commercial operations by 5:29 AM on Saturday, May 10, but travelers are urged to stay updated through airline channels.

Passengers are strongly advised to recheck flight schedules, plan ahead, and cooperate with the enhanced security procedures to ensure smooth transit during this sensitive period.

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