Puducherry

Holi is widely regarded as India’s most exuberant festival, marked by vibrant colours, music and communal celebration. Yet, in a nation defined by cultural diversity and layered histories, there are communities where the festival passes without colour play or public revelry. In select villages across Jharkhand, Gujarat and Uttarakhand, as well as heritage pockets of Puducherry and settlements near Pulicat Lake, local traditions, legends and spiritual beliefs have shaped a different approach.

Cyclone Ditwah, a severe cyclonic storm, is hovering near the southeastern coast of India, prompting authorities to issue an orange alert in Puducherry and elevate preparedness measures across Andhra Pradesh. The storm brings intense rainfall, strong winds, and potential disruptions to coastal communities, transport, and infrastructure. Meteorological agencies are closely monitoring its trajectory to provide timely warnings, while local administrations are coordinating evacuation plans and relief operations.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is on the cusp of initiating the selection process for a new national president, following strategic appointments of state chiefs across India. With 16 organizational units already led by appointed presidents, the party is nearing the mandatory threshold of 19 states and union territories required to commence the presidential election. Recent leadership changes in Puducherry, Mizoram, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh reflect a deliberate restructuring aimed at facilitating a smooth transition from incumbent J P Nadda.