Guru Pournami Sweet Pongal Recipe (Chakkara Pongali)

 

📝 Ingredients:

• Raw rice – 1 cup

• Moong dal (yellow split) – 1/4 cup

• Jaggery – 1 cup (grated or powdered)

• Ghee – 3–4 tbsp

• Cashews – 10

• Raisins – 10

• Cardamom powder – 1/2 tsp

• Water – 3 cups

• Milk – 1/2 cup (optional, for richness)

• A pinch of edible camphor (optional)

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👨‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Dry roast the moong dal lightly until it gives a nutty aroma.

2. Wash and cook rice + roasted dal together with 3 cups water in a pressure cooker (3 whistles).

3. Once cooked, mash the mixture gently.

4. In a pan, melt jaggery with 1/4 cup water. Strain if needed to remove impurities.

5. Add the jaggery syrup to the cooked rice-dal mix and stir on low flame.

6. Add cardamom powder, camphor (if using), and milk (optional). Mix well.

7. In a small pan, fry cashews and raisins in ghee and add to the Pongal.

8. Finally, add the remaining ghee and cook for 2–3 minutes until it becomes slightly thick

Guru Purnima 2025: Honoring the Guiding Lights of Our Lives

 

Guru Purnima 2025: Honoring the Guiding Lights of Our Lives

Hyderabad | July 10, 2025 – Guru Purnima, one of the most spiritually significant days in Indian tradition, will be celebrated across India tomorrow, July 11, 2025. This full moon day (Purnima) in the month of Ashadha is dedicated to expressing gratitude to one’s gurus or spiritual teachers who guide us through the journey of life.

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📜 What is Guru Purnima?

Guru Purnima is a day to honour and pay respects to teachers, mentors, spiritual masters, and guides — anyone who has shared wisdom and helped shape our thoughts and life. The word Guru is derived from Sanskrit:

• "Gu" means darkness

• "Ru" means remover

A Guru is therefore seen as one who removes ignorance and enlightens the soul.

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🙏 Why is Guru Purnima Celebrated?

The day holds deep historical and spiritual significance:

• 📚 In Hindu tradition, it is believed that Maharshi Veda Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata and compiler of the Vedas, was born on this day. Hence, it is also called Vyasa Purnima.

• 🧘 In Buddhism, this is the day Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath after attaining enlightenment.

• 🌿 In yogic tradition, it is said to be the day when Lord Shiva became the Adi Guru (first guru) and began imparting knowledge to his disciples.

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🕉️ How is Guru Purnima Observed?

Across India, people celebrate Guru Purnima through prayers, gratitude, and spiritual reflection. Here's what many devotees do on this sacred day:

• Offer prayers to teachers and spiritual gurus

• Visit temples, especially those dedicated to saints and sages

• Fasting or taking simple sattvic food

• Chanting mantras and reading scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita

• Attend satsangs, yoga sessions, or spiritual discourses

• Students may offer flowers, sweets, or small gifts to their teachers

In many schools and institutions, Guru Purnima is also celebrated as Teachers’ Day in traditional form.

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🏙️ Hyderabad Celebrations

Temples in Hyderabad, including ISKCON, Chilkur Balaji, and spiritual ashrams, are expected to host special pujas and discourses. Devotees will likely gather in large numbers, especially in the early morning and evening hours.

Many yoga centers and meditation groups in the city have planned group meditations and online events for those who can’t attend in person.

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🪔 Final Thought

In today’s busy life, we often forget those who molded us. Guru Purnima is not just a ritual—it’s a reminder to be humble and grateful. Whether it’s a school teacher, a spiritual guru, or even a parent — tomorrow is the perfect day to say:
“Thank you for lighting the path.”

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Stay tuned to TodayInCity News for updates on local events and spiritual gatherings.

🇮🇳 Bharat Bandh Today: Nationwide Strike Hits Services, Workers Raise 17 Demands

 Hyderabad | July 9, 2025 – A massive Bharat Bandh was observed across India today as over 25 crore workers from various sectors joined a nationwide strike led by central trade unions and farmers’ groups. The strike was called to protest against the Centre’s policies, including labour law reforms, privatisation of public units, and demands for improved wages and job security.

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🔹 Why the Bharat Bandh Was Called

Ten central trade unions and several affiliated organisations initiated the bandh, citing long-pending grievances. Their 17-point charter of demands includes:

• Withdrawal of the four new labour codes

• Stopping the privatisation of public-sector undertakings, including defence factories

• Restoration of the old pension scheme

• Job security for contract and gig workers

• Universal public distribution system and price control on essentials

CITU General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur stated that the bandh was essential to resist policies that “attack workers’ rights and reduce job safety.”

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⚠️ Nationwide Impact

The bandh had a major impact in cities like Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Delhi, where public transport, banking services, and industrial activity were disrupted. Protest rallies were staged across several states.

• Banking & Postal Services: Many public sector bank branches and post offices witnessed low attendance.

• Transport: Bus and local train services in some states were delayed or cancelled.

• Mining & Electricity: Workers from power and coal sectors also joined, though essential services were maintained.

• Schools & Hospitals: These remained unaffected in most places.

Despite the strike, markets and small businesses continued to function normally in many regions.

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📍 Hyderabad Response

In Hyderabad, the response was partial. Key government services and schools remained open, but some banks and public transport routes operated with limited staff. No major protests or traffic disruptions were reported till afternoon.

Police were on alert, especially near bus depots, railway stations, and government offices, to ensure law and order. Some employees working in private firms opted to work from home due to expected transport delays.

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🔊 Government's Reaction

The central government has not yet issued an official response to today’s bandh. However, BJP leaders claimed that the protest was politically motivated and had little real impact on daily life.

On the other hand, unions emphasized that today’s strike is just a warning and that a larger movement may follow if demands are ignored.

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📝 Final Note

Today’s Bharat Bandh reflects growing unrest among workers and trade unions, particularly around issues like job insecurity, privatisation, and weakening of labour rights. While the strike’s full impact varied across regions, the message from millions of workers was clear — they want change and dialogue, not silence.

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Stay tuned to TodayInCity News for updates on local and national developments.

Thammudu Movie Review: Misses the Mark Despite Strong Performances

 Rating: ★★½ (2.5/5)

Cast: Nithiin, Varsha Bollamma, Sapthami Gowda, Laya
Director: Venu Sriram
Producer: Dil Raju
Music: Ajaneesh Loknath
Release Date: July 4, 2025

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The Story:
A factory blast in Vizag triggers a legal war. While corrupt forces try to suppress the truth, honest officer Jhansi (Laya) stands her ground. But things take a deadly turn during a pilgrimage to Ambaragodugu. Enter Jai (Nithiin), a mysterious archer who saves her family. But who is he, and what secrets connect him to Jhansi and the case?

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What Works:

• Varsha Bollamma shines with a balanced mix of emotion and action.

• Laya, as the upright officer, is composed and dignified.

• Some early action sequences and Swasika’s brief role add small sparks.

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What Doesn’t:

• The plot feels stale, offering little that’s new or engaging.

• Nithiin’s archer persona is underdeveloped and lacks punch.

• Supporting characters like Azarwal and Ratna are flat and forgettable.

• The second half is slow, repetitive, and emotionally hollow.

• Music and visuals are functional but forgettable.

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Verdict:
Thammudu starts with promise but loses steam quickly. Despite sincere performances from Varsha and Laya, the weak script and sluggish pacing make it a dull affair. A forgettable outing for Nithiin and Dil Raju. Better options await this weekend.

PM Modi Welcomed in Trinidad & Tobago with Bhojpuri Chautaal Hails Cultural Connect Like No Other

 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand and emotionally charged welcome during his visit to Trinidad and Tobago on July 3, 2025. As he arrived at Piarco International Airport, he was greeted with a traditional Bhojpuri Chautaal performance—a rhythmic folk form deeply rooted in Indian culture, especially from the states of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Dressed in mythological costumes, members of the First Felicity Ramleela and Cultural Group lined the runway, bringing alive a powerful Indo-Caribbean connection. The vibrant drums and tassa beats added to the festive atmosphere.

Sharing a clip of the welcome on social media, PM Modi wrote,

“A cultural connect like no other! Very happy to have witnessed a Bhojpuri Chautaal performance in Port of Spain. The connect between Trinidad & Tobago and India, especially parts of eastern UP and Bihar, is noteworthy.”

This visit marks the first official trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago in over 25 years. PM Modi was received by T&T Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, along with 38 ministers and MPs. In a symbolic gesture, Modi referred to Persad-Bissessar—whose ancestors hail from Buxar district in Bihar—as "Bihar ki Beti."

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🪔 Deepening Cultural and Ancestral Ties

With nearly 40% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population having Indian roots, PM Modi’s visit was a moment of pride and celebration for the Indian diaspora. He praised the community for preserving traditions such as Ramleela, Navratri, Shivratri, and the use of Bhojpuri language—even six generations after their ancestors arrived as indentured laborers.

During his speech, PM Modi also announced that sixth-generation descendants of the Indian diaspora in T&T will now be eligible for OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards, a move widely appreciated by the Indo-Trinidadian community.

He also presented sacred waters from the Sarayu River and Kumbh Sangam, and a replica of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, symbolizing spiritual and cultural unity across continents.

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📱 UPI Goes Global, Starting with Trinidad & Tobago

In a significant development, Trinidad and Tobago will now adopt India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface), making it the first Caribbean nation to implement the platform. This is expected to strengthen digital connectivity and economic collaboration between the two nations.

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🏅 Honours & Controversies

Modi is likely to be conferred with the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT), the country’s highest civilian honor. However, not all voices are in agreement. The Anjuman Sunnat-ul-Jamaat Association, a prominent Muslim organization in T&T, expressed concerns regarding Modi’s human rights record and his government’s stance on religious minorities.

Despite these criticisms, Modi's visit is being hailed by many as a historic moment in Indo-Caribbean relations, blending diplomacy with deep-rooted cultural reverence.

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🔗 Summary

From Bhojpuri beats at the airport to policy changes that uplift the diaspora, PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago marks a significant step in strengthening India’s cultural, digital, and diplomatic influence in the Caribbean region.

Massive Explosion at Chemical Factory in Patancheru; Over 20 Workers Injured

 

Hyderabad, Monday: A major explosion rocked a chemical factory in Pashamailaram, located in the Patancheru industrial area, on Monday afternoon. The blast, believed to have been triggered by a reactor explosion, led to a massive fire and left over 20 workers seriously injured, with several reportedly trapped inside.

Panic gripped the surrounding area as thick smoke and flames engulfed parts of the factory premises. Multiple fire engines and rescue teams rushed to the spot and launched firefighting operations to bring the situation under control.

Emergency personnel were seen carrying out rescue efforts to save those stuck inside the factory. According to initial reports, many of the injured are in critical condition and have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Authorities are yet to confirm the exact cause of the explosion, and a detailed investigation is expected to follow. The incident has raised serious concerns about industrial safety in the region.

Stay tuned to TodayInCity for more updates on this developing story.

Megastar Chiranjeevi’s ‘Vishwambhara’ Gearing Up for a Grand Musical Launch at Hanuman Idol in Paritala?

 

Megastar Chiranjeevi’s ‘Vishwambhara’ Gearing Up for a Grand Musical Launch at Hanuman Idol in Paritala?

Megastar Chiranjeevi is all set to return to the big screen with his upcoming socio-fantasy film Vishwambhara, directed by Bimbisara fame Vassishta Mallidi. The film is currently creating a strong buzz across social media, especially with reports hinting at a major update around the corner.

While an official release date is yet to be confirmed, Vishwambhara is expected to hit theatres on July 24, 2025—a date that holds sentimental value for fans as it marks the anniversary of Chiranjeevi’s blockbuster Indra (2002).

Adding fuel to the excitement, sources suggest that the film’s first single is likely to be unveiled in a grand event at the iconic Hanuman idol in Paritala, near Vijayawada. Known as the world’s second tallest Hanuman statue, the location is expected to witness a massive gathering of fans on April 12, 2025—if the buzz is true. However, we’re still waiting for an official confirmation from the makers.

The film features Trisha Krishnan as the female lead, reuniting with Chiranjeevi after many years. Bollywood actor Kunal Kapoor plays the antagonist, while Ashika Ranganath, Esha Chawla, and others take on key roles. Produced by UV Creations, Vishwambhara has music composed by MM Keeravaani, promising a rich musical experience.

Stay tuned to Today in City for the official announcement and exclusive updates on Vishwambhara’s musical journey!