Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur witnessed festive Janmashtami celebrations on Friday as hundreds of devotees participated in a Shobha Yatra organised by the Sanatan Sabha Udhampur. The procession moved through different parts of the city, drawing residents and devotees who gathered along the route.

The celebration featured children dressed as Lord Krishna and Radha, along with decorated tableaux depicting episodes from the life of Lord Krishna. Devotional music, bhajans and religious chants accompanied the procession, creating a festive atmosphere across the city. 

Devotees Take Part in Procession

The Shobha Yatra brought together devotees from different parts of Udhampur for a public celebration of Krishna Janmashtami. Participants walked along the designated route as residents watched the procession from the roadside.

The presence of children dressed as Krishna and Radha added a visual and cultural element to the celebrations, while the tableaux presented scenes associated with Krishna’s life and teachings.

Sanatan Sabha Organises Yatra

The procession was organised by Sanatan Sabha Udhampur as part of the city’s Janmashtami celebrations. Religious processions and Shobha Yatras are traditionally organised around major Hindu festivals, allowing devotees to celebrate through community participation and devotional activities.

The Udhampur event was among several Janmashtami-related programmes taking place across Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country this week.

Janmashtami Celebrated Across J-K

Krishna Janmashtami is being observed on September 4, 2026, with devotees marking the birth of Lord Krishna through fasting, prayers, bhajans and temple celebrations. The festival is associated with the Ashtami tithi of the Krishna Paksha and traditionally includes midnight worship. 

Across Jammu and Kashmir, religious organisations and temples have organised special programmes and processions around the festival. Jammu city also witnessed a Shobha Yatra on the eve of Janmashtami, with authorities issuing traffic advisories in view of the expected gatherings. 

Tableaux Depict Krishna’s Life

Decorated tableaux formed an important part of the Udhampur procession. Such displays commonly depict episodes associated with Lord Krishna and provide a visual representation of stories from Hindu religious tradition.

Along with the tableaux, devotional songs and bhajans accompanied the procession as it passed through the city.

Festive Atmosphere in Udhampur

The participation of local residents and devotees turned the procession into a community gathering, with crowds assembling at different points along its route.

For many families, Janmashtami celebrations combine religious observance with cultural participation, particularly through children’s involvement in Krishna and Radha-themed attire and community programmes.

The Udhampur Shobha Yatra thus added a public dimension to the festival, bringing religious activities from temples and homes into the city’s streets.

Celebrations Continue

Janmashtami celebrations are continuing across the region, with devotees observing the festival through prayers and other traditional rituals. In Vaishnava traditions, the midnight period is especially significant as Krishna’s birth is traditionally commemorated at that time. 

The Udhampur procession reflected the wider festive mood surrounding Janmashtami, while providing devotees an opportunity to participate collectively in the celebrations.

Hariyali Teej, one of the prominent festivals celebrated during the Hindu month of Shravan, will be observed on Saturday, August 15, 2026. The festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, holds special significance for married women, who observe fasts and offer prayers for the health, longevity and well-being of their husbands and families.

Also known as Sawan Teej, Choti Teej and Madhusrava Teej, the festival is celebrated across several parts of North India. The occasion is marked by traditional attire, mehendi, swings, folk songs and special prayers.

Hariyali Teej 2026 Date and Tithi

According to the Panchang timings provided for Ujjain, the Tritiya Tithi will begin at 6:47 PM on August 14 and end at 5:29 PM on August 15.

On August 15, sunrise in Ujjain will be at around 6:07 AM, while sunset will take place at approximately 6:55 PM. Moonrise is expected at 8:25 AM, with moonset around 8:43 PM.

Since Panchang timings can vary slightly from one location to another, devotees are advised to check the local Panchang for city-specific timings.

Why Is Hariyali Teej Celebrated?

Hariyali Teej is associated with the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to Hindu tradition, Goddess Parvati undertook severe penance to attain Lord Shiva as her husband. Her devotion eventually led to their union.

For this reason, married women worship Shiva and Parvati on Hariyali Teej and pray for marital happiness, prosperity and the well-being of their families. Unmarried women may also observe the fast and offer prayers for a suitable life partner.

Green Attire and Traditional Shringar

The colour green has a special place in Hariyali Teej celebrations. Women traditionally wear green sarees, lehengas or other festive outfits and decorate their hands with mehendi.

Traditional bangles, sindoor, bindis and jewellery are also an important part of the celebrations. In several families, newly married women receive clothes, bangles, sweets and other traditional items from their in-laws as part of the Sindharatradition.

Women may also visit their parental homes to celebrate the festival with family members.

Mehendi, Swings and Folk Songs

Hariyali Teej is closely associated with the monsoon season and the greenery that surrounds communities during Sawan. Swings are traditionally tied to trees and courtyards, with women gathering to sing traditional songs and celebrate together.

Mehendi is another important part of the festival. Women decorate their hands with intricate designs, while in some traditions the name or initials of their husband or loved one are incorporated into the design.

Hariyali Teej Vrat

Many women observe a fast on Hariyali Teej. In some communities, women traditionally observe a Nirjala Vrat, during which they refrain from both food and water for the day.

However, fasting practices differ between families and regions. People with health conditions, elderly women and pregnant women should not undertake prolonged or waterless fasting without appropriate medical advice.

The fast is generally associated with prayers to Goddess Parvati for marital happiness and the prosperity and well-being of the family.

Regional Names and Celebrations

Hariyali Teej is celebrated with different local traditions across India. In Rajasthan, Teej celebrations are particularly prominent, while in Punjab the festival is associated with Teeyan traditions.

The festival also has a strong cultural presence in the Braj region. In Vrindavan and surrounding areas, temples organise monsoon celebrations featuring decorated swings, devotional music and special adornment of deities.

Cultural Significance of Hariyali Teej

Beyond its religious importance, Hariyali Teej represents a celebration of women's traditions, family bonds, music, seasonal change and the arrival of the monsoon.

The festival provides an opportunity for women to come together, participate in traditional activities and celebrate with their families. Although many customs have evolved over time, rituals such as Shiva-Parvati worship, mehendi, green attire, swings and Sawan songs remain closely associated with Hariyali Teej.

As the festival falls on August 15 this year, celebrations will coincide with Independence Day. Communities across different parts of the country are expected to observe both occasions through their respective cultural and public programmes.

Note: The above timings are based on Panchang information for Ujjain. Puja and Tithi timings may vary depending on the location.

Guru Purnima, one of the most revered festivals in the Hindu calendar, will be observed on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, across India. The festival is dedicated to expressing gratitude and respect to spiritual gurus, teachers and mentors who guide individuals on the path of knowledge and wisdom.

According to the Hindu Panchang, the Purnima Tithi will begin at 6:18 PM on July 28 and conclude on July 29 (timing as per the Hindu calendar). Since Hindu festivals are generally observed based on the Udaya Tithi (the tithi prevailing at sunrise), most Guru Purnima rituals, Guru Puja and religious ceremonies will be performed on July 29, 2026.

Importance of Guru Purnima

Guru Purnima is celebrated to honour the eternal bond between a guru and disciple. The day is associated with Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the revered sage credited with compiling the Vedas, authoring the Mahabharata and composing several ancient scriptures. For this reason, the occasion is also known as Vyasa Purnima.

The festival holds significance not only in Hinduism but also in Buddhism and Jainism. In Buddhism, it marks the day when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath after attaining enlightenment.

Auspicious Timings

As per the Hindu calendar:

• Purnima Tithi Begins: 6:18 PM on July 28, 2026

• Festival Date (Udaya Tithi): July 29, 2026

Devotees are advised to perform Guru Puja, Satyanarayan Katha, charity and other religious rituals during the auspicious hours on July 29.

Guru Purnima Puja Vidhi

On the occasion of Guru Purnima, devotees traditionally begin the day with a holy bath and wear clean or traditional attire. The place of worship is cleaned and decorated before offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, Maharishi Ved Vyasa and one's spiritual guru.

Flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, lamps and sacred offerings are presented during the puja. Many devotees also seek blessings from their teachers and elders, offer gifts or donations, and recite religious texts or bhajans. Acts of charity, food donation and service are considered especially auspicious on this day.

A Festival of Gratitude

Beyond religious observance, Guru Purnima is a celebration of knowledge, discipline and lifelong learning. Educational institutions, spiritual organisations and ashrams across the country organise special programmes, discourses and felicitation ceremonies to honour teachers and spiritual guides.

The festival serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that gurus and mentors play in shaping character, imparting wisdom and inspiring future generations.

The Odisha government has confirmed that two devotees died during the annual Shree Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri on Thursday but clarified that the fatalities were caused by medical emergencies and not by a stampede.

Lakhs of devotees gathered on the Grand Road (Bada Danda) to witness the world-famous chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra despite heavy rainfall.

Government Denies Stampede

Reports of a possible stampede emerged after confusion briefly broke out near Marichikote Chowk during the procession. However, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) and the state government denied that a stampede had occurred.

Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the two deaths were the result of separate medical emergencies rather than crowd crushing.

According to officials, one elderly devotee died after experiencing severe breathing difficulties, while 35-year-old Anil Dash suffered a cardiac arrest despite receiving immediate medical attention.

Over 100 Devotees Receive Medical Treatment

Authorities said more than 100 devotees were treated during the festival for exhaustion, dehydration, breathing problems and minor injuries caused by prolonged exposure to the large gathering and humid weather.

Medical teams, ambulances and emergency response units remained stationed across the procession route to provide immediate assistance.

Human Chain Helped Emergency Response

To ensure quick medical evacuation, police personnel, security officials and volunteers formed human corridors whenever emergencies were reported.

The temporary passage allowed ambulances to reach affected devotees and transport them to Puri District Headquarters Hospital without significant delay. Officials said the coordinated response helped prevent further complications.

Opposition Seeks Review of Arrangements

The incident has sparked political reactions, with Leader of Opposition and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressing condolences to the families of the deceased.

He called for a comprehensive review of crowd management and safety arrangements to ensure the remaining Rath Yatra events are conducted smoothly.

The Odisha government has reiterated that the Rath Yatra continued under enhanced security and crowd management measures following the brief disruption caused by heavy rain and medical emergencies.

Devotees across Madhya Pradesh celebrated the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra with religious fervour on Thursday as grand chariot processions were taken out in several cities, including Ujjain, Harda, Maheshwar, Begamganj and Gwalior. Thousands of devotees gathered along the procession routes, offering prayers, pulling the chariots and welcoming Lord Jagannath with flower showers, devotional music and traditional rituals.

The festival marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Goddess Subhadra, from the temple to devotees, symbolising divine blessings and equality.

Harda Chariot Decorated With 51 kg of Flowers

In Harda, the traditional Rath Yatra began from the historic Jagdish Temple, where the deities were seated on a beautifully decorated chariot adorned with 51 kilograms of flowers. The procession, now in its third consecutive year, passed through major city roads as devotees welcomed the chariot with floral offerings, aarti and chants of "Jai Jagannath."

Large crowds lined the streets to seek blessings from the deities during the city procession.

Maheshwar Hosts 11th Rath Yatra

In Maheshwar of Khargone district, Lord Jagannath emerged for public darshan after the customary 15-day Anasara period, during which the deities remain in seclusion following the Snana Purnima rituals.

The town witnessed its 11th annual Rath Yatra, with 16 devotees ceremonially placing the idols on the chariot. Accompanied by traditional bands, drums and devotional singing, the procession drew thousands of devotees who prayed for prosperity, good rainfall and peace.

Ujjain Prepares Twin Rath Yatras

In Ujjain, two separate Rath Yatras were scheduled to begin in the afternoon.

The first procession is being organised by ISKCON Temple from Indira Nagar Square, while the second is being taken out from Lord Jagdish Temple at Kartik Chowk by the Khati community.

For the occasion, artisans from West Bengal prepared special ceremonial attire for Lord Jagannath using imported Japanese threads and pearls at an estimated cost of ₹2.5 lakh. Three specially designed chariots have also been prepared for the procession.

The route includes Mandi Chowk, Chamunda Mata, Freeganj Bridge, Tower Chowk, Teen Batti and Vikramaditya Research Institute before returning to the temple.

Begamganj Witnesses Political Unity

In Begamganj of Raisen district, the Rath Yatra reflected an atmosphere of communal harmony and political unity. Before the procession began, Congress MLA Devendra Patel and senior BJP leader and former minister Thakur Rampal Singh Rajput jointly offered prayers at the Jagdish Temple.

The procession later moved through the town amid devotional music and religious celebrations before reaching Dussehra Maidan, where Lord Jagannath's chariot will halt overnight before returning to the temple the following day.

Organisers estimated that 10,000 to 15,000 devotees would participate in the celebrations.

Preparations Continue in Gwalior

In Kulaith village near Gwalior, devotees gathered at the Jagannath Temple for devotional singing and community feasts ahead of the Rath Yatra. The procession was scheduled to begin in the afternoon, with elaborate security arrangements and a village fair organised to accommodate the expected crowd.

Festival Symbolises Devotion and Inclusivity

Jagannath Rath Yatra is among India's most significant religious festivals and is celebrated across several states with massive public participation. The procession symbolises Lord Jagannath's journey among devotees and reflects values of devotion, equality and social harmony.

Authorities across Madhya Pradesh deployed police personnel and traffic management teams to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the celebrations.

Devotees of Lord Vishnu across India will observe Yogini Ekadashi on Friday, July 10, 2026. Falling during the Krishna Paksha of the Ashadha month, the sacred Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The day holds special significance for devotees seeking good health, spiritual purification and freedom from past sins.

According to the Hindu Panchang, Yogini Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious Ekadashi observances of the year. Scriptures state that observing the fast with devotion is believed to bring prosperity, remove obstacles and bestow divine blessings.

Yogini Ekadashi 2026: Date and Timings

For Ujjain (IST), the important timings are:

• Yogini Ekadashi: Friday, July 10, 2026

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 8:16 AM on July 10

• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 5:23 AM on July 11

• Sunrise: 5:52 AM

• Sunset: 7:12 PM

• Hari Vasara Ends: 10:33 AM on July 11

• Parana (Fast Breaking) Time: 1:52 PM to 4:32 PM on July 11

• Dwadashi Ends: 2:04 AM on July 12

Significance of Yogini Ekadashi

Yogini Ekadashi is regarded as a powerful vrat dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Religious texts mention that observing this fast with sincerity is believed to cleanse accumulated sins, promote physical well-being and lead devotees toward spiritual upliftment.

The observance is especially associated with prayers for relief from illnesses and a healthy life. Hindu scriptures compare the spiritual merit earned through this vrat with the merit of performing numerous charitable acts.

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha is narrated in the Padma Purana. According to the legend, Hemmali, a servant of Kubera, neglected his duty of bringing flowers for Lord Shiva's worship because he remained with his wife. Angered by the negligence, Kubera cursed him with leprosy and separation from his family.

After years of suffering, Hemmali met Markandeya Rishi, who advised him to observe the Yogini Ekadashi fast. By faithfully performing the vrat, Hemmali was relieved of the curse, regained his health and reunited with his wife. The story highlights the importance of devotion, discipline and sincere repentance.

Rituals to Observe

Devotees generally begin preparations from Dashami by following a satvik diet and avoiding tamasic food.

On Ekadashi, devotees:

• Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath.

• Worship Lord Vishnu with flowers, incense, lamp and Tulsi leaves.

• Chant Vishnu mantras and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama or Bhagavad Gita.

• Observe a fast, either complete or by consuming fruits and vrat-approved foods.

• Spend the day in prayer, bhajans and spiritual activities.

• Break the fast during the prescribed Parana Muhurat on Dwadashi.

Many devotees also worship the Peepal tree and donate food, clothes or other essentials to the needy.

Foods Allowed During the Fast

Those unable to observe a complete fast may consume vrat-approved foods such as fruits, milk, dry fruits, water, makhana, sabudana and vrat flour preparations. Grains, rice, wheat, pulses and regular salt are generally avoided.

Importance for Devotees

Yogini Ekadashi is believed to remove negative karma, promote good health and bring peace and prosperity. Devotees consider the observance particularly beneficial for attaining spiritual progress while seeking Lord Vishnu's blessings for themselves and their families.

The fast concludes on July 11 during the prescribed Parana time between 1:52 PM and 4:32 PM, after offering prayers and prasad to Lord Vishnu.