Jaipur Literature Festival 2026 to Begin Jan 15, Brings Global Writers Together in World’s Largest Free Literary Gathering

The Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) 2026, often called the world’s largest literary gathering, is set to take place from January 15 to 19 at Hotel Clarks Amer in Jaipur. Now in its 19th edition, the festival will bring together more than 500 speakers and host over 300 sessions that span literature, history, politics, science, technology, art, climate action, poetry and global issues.

Organised annually by Teamwork Arts and the Jaipur Virasat Foundation, the festival’s programme will be spread across iconic venues such as Front Lawn, Charbagh, Surya Mahal, Durbar Hall and Baithak. Speakers include internationally acclaimed writers, thinkers and cultural figures, making this year’s edition one of the most comprehensive and diverse in recent memory.

The event continues JLF’s tradition of inclusive dialogue and cultural exchange, inviting audiences to engage directly with voices from around the world. Sessions will explore contemporary issues alongside literary art, offering attendees a dynamic and immersive intellectual experience.

Unique Importance:
• Global Reach: With speakers from India and abroad, JLF has become a major platform for international literary and cultural discourse.
• Diverse Themes: The festival goes beyond books to include debates on science, politics, climate and social change, making it relevant to a wide audience
• Open Engagement: Traditionally free or affordable to attend for most sessions, JLF fosters democratic access to ideas and creativity.
• Cultural Integration: By blending literary discussions with music, performance and art, the festival celebrates India’s cultural diversity and global narratives in one space.

Organisers and fans alike say JLF is more than a festival — it’s a confluence of ideas and conversations that transcends boundaries and connects readers, writers, thinkers and creators from across the globe.

 

Ramayan Mela Delhi-2026: A Grand Cultural and Spiritual Festival in India’s Capital

The much-anticipated Ramayan Mela Delhi-2026 is set to open on January 14, 2026, at Pocket-52, DDA Park in C.R. Park, New Delhi. Organized by the Sri Vishwakarma International Foundation Trust and managed by its Cultural Management Committee, the week-long festival will run until January 20, welcoming visitors daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 

The Mela aims to celebrate India’s timeless epic, the Ramayana, by bringing its spiritual and cultural values to life through a rich blend of performances, exhibitions, workshops, and immersive experiences. It is designed for enthusiasts of all ages — from families and students to scholars and cultural tourists.

A major highlight includes daily Ramleela enactments featuring professional troupes from across India, dramatizing key chapters of Lord Rama’s journey from Ayodhya to Lanka. A specially curated Ramayan Theme Exhibition will display paintings, manuscripts, sculptures, and modern digital art inspired by the epic.

The festival also offers a variety of cultural performances, including folk dances like Lavani and Kathakali, classical music evenings focused on devotional compositions, and storytelling sessions by renowned Kathavachaks who will share philosophical insights from the Ramayana in Hindi, Sanskrit, and regional languages.

In addition to performance art, the mela features workshops on Sanskrit chanting, puppetry storytelling, and traditional costume and weaponry of Ramayana characters, alongside a Spiritual Practices and Wellness Zone that includes morning meditation and Ayurveda exhibitions.

Visitors will also enjoy the Ramayana Bazaar — a marketplace of over 100 stalls showcasing traditional handicrafts, organic products, books, and regional delicacies — as well as a spectacular Ramayan Tableau Parade and an eco-friendly Lankadahan and Ravan Dahan ceremony on the final day.

With free entry for all, the Ramayan Mela 2026 promises to be a vibrant celebration of India’s heritage, culture, and spiritual legacy, inviting citizens and tourists alike to immerse themselves in one of the world’s oldest and most cherished narratives. 

The Cosmic Script: How Mahakaal Writes Our Story

God watches over every small and big action of ours and plans everything for us. Honestly, God is truly awesome.

Then, there’s Kaal — an incredibly crucial planner. He knows exactly how, in this massive population, a certain number of people are destined to die at a particular time. But the real challenge lies in how it will happen and how to gather those souls together at the same moment. That’s where Kaal comes in.

He meticulously plans for everyone, and when the time is right, he sets an incident in motion. What we often perceive as a tragedy or accident is, in reality, not an accident at all. Our birth and death are predetermined long before we arrive on this earth. Kaal is merely the executor of that cosmic script.

And who is Kaal?

Mahakaal — none other than Lord Shiva himself. There is no one above Shiva. He is the ultimate force, the supreme planner, the one who governs time, destiny, and eternity.

In conclusion: There’s no planner greater than Lord Shiva.

The Fear in Their Eyes

Old ones fear death, I know it well,
But seeing that fear—oh, it's a hell.
Two-thirds of life, I've left behind,
The last phase whispers, cruel yet kind.

This body frail, this soul confined,
One day, I'll leave this shell behind.
But before I go, my heart does ache,
For those whose hands once held my fate.

I see my parent, lone and still,
They lost their love—now time’s cruel will.
They wait, they know, the end is near,
Yet silent bear the weight of fear.

A child I am, yet helpless too,
To see them fade, what can I do?
We dread the day, we beg for more,
But Nature knocks on every door.

Those who come must one day part,
A truth that shatters every heart.
Yet, if souls could choose to stay,
I’d wish them near, just one more day.

Kaash amar ho jaate vo,
Aatma ban saath nibhate vo.
But such is life, and such is fate,
Only God remains—forever great.

Reading beyond what’s visible

We feel like we are growing, sensing people, their actions, and reactions, but it’s not as simple as it seems. Even when we are close to God, almost able to see Him around us all the time, we can still misunderstand what others truly are. We may observe their actions, but we can’t always see through them. It’s only when His love intervenes, revealing what we need to see, that we realize the lesson we’re meant to learn at that moment.

Why didn’t we see the truth sooner? Because if we had, we’d have been too guarded, not truly ready for the lessons life wanted to teach us. "Nothing in life is permanent except Him."

We often don’t accept people who aren’t like us. Just as water mixes with water and oil with oil, we feel comfortable with what’s similar. Water and oil are never meant to mix. We may grow close to someone, but a small mismatch will prevent full harmony. The lesson here is, we can be near God, but we cannot yet be one with Him, because we are still imperfect. We have our impurities. When we struggle to accept people who aren’t entirely true to us, how can we expect to be one with God unless we are fully aligned with Him?

If we surrender to God, He shows us how to become like Him. He takes care of every step we take, guiding us in every moment. Life is like a wheel: after each period of disappointment, there will be a time of joy, where we reflect on what we’ve learned and move forward. With every bad phase, the lessons become shorter, and eventually, there will be no more bad phases. We will have learned everything we need to, and we’ll be ready to unite with God. This is the state of ultimate bliss, where we are immersed in tears of love and divine peace. I hope we all experience this in this lifetime.

Forgive those who hurt you, for they came into your life to teach you something essential for your spiritual growth. Wishing maturity, sensibility, and peace to all.

Finding Peace Amidst Materialism: A Journey to True Happiness

In today’s world, many of us are caught in a constant pursuit of material wealth—whether it’s money, property, or luxury cars. While it’s normal to have desires for a comfortable life, the line between need and greed has become increasingly blurred. We often seek things not out of necessity but to match what our peers have, and in doing so, we risk losing our inner peace.

It’s perfectly fine to aspire for a beautiful home, stylish clothing, or the latest gadgets. But what’s not okay is sacrificing your mental health in the chase for these possessions. We shouldn't desire things just because others have them. Our quest for material goods often stems from comparison, and that’s where the problem lies.

The Trap of Comparison
Why aren’t we happy? Because we’ve lost sight of gratitude. We are so focused on chasing bigger and better things that we forget to appreciate the blessings we already have. We live a lifestyle designed to keep up with others, without realizing that this race strips us of our unique identity. The more we strive to match others, the further we stray from our true selves.
We often look to those who appear successful, without considering if they’re truly happy or understand the deeper meaning of life. In doing so, we risk living unfulfilled lives, unaware of life’s true purpose.

The Cost of Fame and Wealth
It’s natural for people to desire fame, wealth, and recognition. But at what cost? Many sacrifice their mental peace for these goals. While material comfort is important for survival, it’s essential to remember that life is about more than just accumulating luxuries. Forgetting the divine purpose of life in the race for materialism leads to a life devoid of meaning.

Life’s True Purpose
In our pursuit of material things, we often forget one crucial aspect of life—death. We live as if life is eternal, seeking pleasure and possessions to impress others, not for our true enjoyment. We’re trapped in a rat race, and only those who break free from it and focus on a higher purpose will find true happiness. Living with intention, for a higher purpose, is what gives life its value. Otherwise, we’re no different from animals, acting out of instinct rather than wisdom.
Just as animals can’t distinguish right from wrong, we too, when consumed by greed, fail to consider what nourishes our souls. We care more about physical appearance than the energy or aura we project. But in reality, what matters most is how our soul appears in the eyes of God and the positive energy we spread in the world.

Gratitude and Patience: Keys to Peace
If we want to find peace and happiness, we must learn to be grateful. We tend to compare our lives with those who are financially better off, instead of appreciating how fortunate we are. Many of us live comfortably, with all basic necessities met. We’re independent and self-sufficient, yet we continue to crave more.
There’s an immense amount to be thankful for, and the sooner we acknowledge it, the more at peace we’ll be. We often overlook the fact that others might be struggling just to make ends meet, while we are blessed with abundance.

Judging Others: A Barrier to Happiness
It’s important to stop focusing on the negative traits of others. Every person has good and bad qualities—no one is perfect. By fixating on the bad, we limit our ability to be kind and understanding. If we want to improve our mental well-being, we should focus on the positive in others. When we judge others, we forget that we are far from perfect ourselves.

Discipline: The Foundation of a Balanced Life
Another crucial aspect of life is discipline. Our daily routines—sleep, exercise, and even our diet—should be structured. We’ve become slaves to our desires, especially when it comes to food. We eat whatever satisfies our taste buds, without considering how it affects our body and soul.
It’s essential to be mindful of what we consume. Eating in excess or indulging in unhealthy foods impacts both our physical health and mental clarity. Like animals, who eat without thought, we too often act on impulse. To live a disciplined life, we must control our diet and resist overindulgence.

Conclusion: A Life Worth Living
In a world driven by materialism, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. But true happiness comes from gratitude, patience, and living a life with purpose. By focusing on what we have, appreciating others’ positive traits, and living with discipline, we can find the peace and fulfilment that so many seek. Only when we detach ourselves from the endless race for more, and focus on our true purpose, will we live a life that is truly worth living.

Transformation Through Football: Bicharpur's Remarkable Journey

In the heart of rural India, nestled within the verdant landscapes of Bicharpur, a silent revolution is underway, not with swords or guns, but with footballs. This village, once synonymous with poverty and addiction, is now gaining recognition as a hub of sporting talent and resilience, all thanks to the beautiful game.

Raees Khan, a former national-level football player turned coach, reminisces about the village's journey. "Football has been played here for long," he reflects. "When I came here, I saw the potential in the children. But the village was grappling with drug addiction. Football became our weapon to fight against it."

Indeed, football has become more than just a sport in Bicharpur; it's a lifeline for many. Virendra Baiga, a young enthusiast, shares his excitement, "Playing football keeps the body fit and helps in studies." For him and countless others, football is not just a game but a pathway to a better life.

The transformation didn't happen overnight. It was a gradual process fueled by passion, dedication, and community support. "Initially, there were no resources," recalls Coach Raees. "Kids played barefoot, borrowed shoes, and stitched T-shirts. But their hunger to play drove us forward."

Football's impact extended beyond the field. Sapna Gupta, a talented young player, reflects on the opportunities it brought. "We have to work hard, but it's worth it," she says. "Football is not just a game; it's my career."

But football's journey in Bicharpur wasn't without challenges. Economic hardships, addiction, and societal norms posed formidable barriers. "People used to make and consume alcohol," shares Sunita Baiga, a resident. "But football changed everything. Now, children go to school, and families have hope for a better future."

Government initiatives and corporate support played pivotal roles in this transformation. Ajay Kumar, a block coordinator, explains, "Government resources were limited. Corporate support became crucial to providing infrastructure and employment opportunities."

Reliance Foundation, through its CSR projects, stepped in, recognizing football's potential to uplift communities. Rajeev Srivastava, a representative, highlights their commitment, "Football wasn't just a game; it was an opportunity for growth. We invested in coaches, facilities, and employment for the youth."

The impact is tangible. Chhote Lal Baiga, a former laborer, shares, "Football brought hope. It gave children a reason to dream beyond their circumstances." Even skeptics like him now acknowledge its transformative power.

As the sun sets over Bicharpur's football fields, the echoes of children's laughter resonate—a testament to resilience, unity, and the unwavering spirit of a community determined to script their destiny, one goal at a time.

In the words of Coach Raees, "Football is not just a game here; it's a way of life. And we've only just begun."

Bicharpur may have been a village unknown to many, but through football, it's carving its place on the national and international stage—a beacon of hope and inspiration for communities worldwide.

Stay tuned! Ciao!

Poonam Pandey and Sam Bombay face ₹100 crore defamation suit

Poonam Pandey and Sam Bombay face a hefty defamation lawsuit, reportedly amounting to ₹100 crore, as per a recent report by the Times of India. The legal action stems from a controversial incident earlier this month where Poonam Pandey orchestrated a fake death stunt. It's alleged that this stunt not only trivialized the seriousness of cancer but also manipulated emotions for publicity.

According to the Times of India, Faizan Ansari filed a First Information Report (FIR) with the Kanpur police, accusing both Poonam and Sam of conspiring to fake her death and thereby making light of the gravity of cancer. Ansari demanded their arrest and appearance in court.

In the FIR, Ansari stated, "Poonam Pandey and her husband Sameer Bombay have fabricated a false conspiracy of death. Along with this, they have made a joke out of diseases like cancer. Poonam orchestrated the drama for publicity and played with the emotions of millions of Indians and the Bollywood film industry." Additionally, Ansari mentioned his intention to pursue legal action against them, seeking ₹100 crore in damages.

The incident in question occurred on February 2, when Poonam Pandey purportedly announced her death from cervical cancer via her official Instagram handle. This announcement, corroborated by her manager, garnered widespread attention. However, the following day, Poonam reappeared on Instagram, revealing that her death was staged to raise awareness about cervical cancer.

In an Instagram video clarifying the situation, Poonam stated, "I am alive. I didn't die of cervical cancer. Unfortunately, I can't say that about those hundreds and thousands of women who have lost their lives because of cervical cancer." She further elaborated on the disease's seriousness and the need for awareness.

The timing of this stunt coincided with the announcement that the Indian government planned to include the HPV vaccine for girls aged 9-14 in the national immunization program. Subsequently, the All India Cine Workers filed an FIR against Poonam Pandey for her actions.

Food waste? Not here. Meet the Indian chef who’s turning food scraps into gourmet bites

New Delhi: While nearly a third of all food produced globally goes to waste, contributing to around 6 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, Executive Chef Davinder Kumar of Le Meridien Hotel in New Delhi is on a mission to transform food scraps into gourmet delicacies. 

Kumar, with over 50 years of culinary experience, noticed a significant waste of fruits and vegetables during his career, estimating nearly 10 per cent
going unused in hotels. Determined to make a change, he drew inspiration from his childhood when his grandmother and mother utilized every bit of ingredients, respecting food and avoiding waste.

"Food abundance, coupled with shifting lifestyles and readily available convenience options, has fueled a surge in food waste. We must pause and reflect on this issue, especially considering those struggling with food insecurity just beyond our doorstep," urges Kumar.

In his efforts to combat food waste, Kumar focuses on the processing and utilization of food scraps in his kitchen. Recognizing the various stages of waste in the production process, he concentrates on the last two: food processing and leftovers after serving.

Kumar and his team meticulously collect, wash, clean, and chop food scraps from various hotel pantries and kitchens. These scraps are then transformed alongside other ingredients into delectable dishes that defy expectations.

There's no trace of 'scraps' in the final product," Kumar explains, "they're seamlessly woven into the recipes.

To share his knowledge and experiences, Kumar authored the book "Second Meals: Art of Cooking through Food Scraps," featuring 150 creative recipes ranging from smoothies and salads to main courses and desserts.

Emphasizing the nutritional value of scraps, Kumar's tagline for the book is "maximize nutrition, minimize waste." He encourages people to adopt mindful thinking around food and embrace environmentally friendly practices.

Kumar, once an unconventional choice for a career in the culinary arts, now trains junior chefs and students to cook using food scraps. He believes that behavioural and mindset training is as crucial as practical demonstrations.

To address the broader issue of food waste, Kumar advocates for measures like portion control, smaller plates, interactive cooking, and customized, smaller portions in hotels. He also emphasizes the importance of giving away leftover food to local charities.

As a part of his initiative against food waste, Kumar donates leftover meat and bones to animal shelters. He envisions taking this campaign to a national level, becoming a guiding reference for future generations in the fight against food waste.

Love's Symphony: A Woman's Heart Sings for a Man of Respect and Trust

     In the tapestry of love, a tale unfolds,

Of a woman's heart, where true love moulds.

She seeks a man, not just a fleeting flame,

But one who weaves respect into love's sweet game.

A woman loves a man who cares,

Whose tender touch, her burdens bear.

Yet in that care, a balance finds its place,

Respecting her essence, with a gentle grace.

For in the dance of love, a rhythm rare,

Is found in spaces, where each has air.

She yearns for a love that's not confined,

Where trust and freedom beautifully bind.

A man who understands the silent plea,

To grant her space, like a wild, untamed sea.

Not a caged bird, but soaring high,

In the vast expanse of an endless sky.

Respect becomes the cornerstone,

In the love they build, where seeds are sown.

Her privacy cherished, a sacred domain,

In love's sanctuary, where hearts remain.

Should the paths of love diverge and part,

She yearns for understanding, not a wounded heart.

A man who trusts, even when ties may sever,

Not maligning her character, a love so clever.

In the tapestry of love, they find their way,

Navigating storms, come what may.

For a woman loves a man with a heart so true,

Built on respect, trust, and love anew.