Nivedita

Over 5.5 crore devotees have visited Ayodhya's Ram Temple since its consecration on January 22, 2024, making it a major global religious destination, according to the Uttar Pradesh government. Among the visitors were nearly 4.5 lakh VIPs, including top political leaders and celebrities. With Lord Ram now seated on the temple’s first floor and an online pass system in place, footfall is expected to increase further in the coming months.

Bigg Boss 13 fame Shefali Jariwala passed away suddenly on June 27, with the cause of death still under investigation. A day later, her husband Parag Tyagi was seen walking their pet dog Simba, sparking mixed reactions online. While many expressed sympathy for the grieving pet and praised Shefali’s bond with Simba, others criticized Parag’s public appearance so soon after the tragedy. Some defended him, reminding that grief is personal and routines like walking a pet do not reflect a lack of mourning.

Over 580 devotees were injured and at least eight are in critical condition after a stampede-like situation occurred during the pulling of Lord Balabhadra’s chariot at the Rath Yatra in Puri. The incident was triggered by overcrowding on the Grand Road as thousands of devotees rushed forward to pull the sacred chariot.

Forty-two senior citizens were rescued from an illegally run old-age home in Noida after a police raid uncovered shocking conditions women were found tied up, many residents were without clothes, and some were confined in basement-like rooms. The raid followed a viral video highlighting the abuse. Officials confirmed the facility had no licence and will be sealed, with all residents being relocated to government-approved shelters.

As Indian trade negotiators arrived in Washington for the final round of talks before the July 9 tariff pause deadline, US President Donald Trump hinted at a potential major trade deal with India, stating, “We’re going to open up India.” However, agriculture remains a major sticking point, with the US pushing for greater market access for soybeans, corn, and apples. The lack of a valid US Trade Promotion Authority limits tariff commitments, raising doubts over the long-term durability of any agreement.