The three stations are ISBT, Zero Mile, and Bhootnath. The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety has approved the operation of the Patna Metro. Following this, the Urban Development Department finalized October 6th as the inauguration date. The metro’s trial run has also been completed. The Patna Metro will operate at a speed of 40 km/h. Currently, the metro will consist of three bogies.

**Showcasing Art, Culture, and Knowledge**

The metro bogies will reflect the art, culture, and knowledge of Bihar. The coaches are inscribed with ‘Patna Metro’. Additionally, depictions of Patna’s Golghar, Mahavir Temple, Lord Mahavir, and Madhubani paintings, among other cultural and artistic elements, are featured. The three bogies of the metro have a capacity of 1000 passengers. There will be seating for 138 passengers in the three bogies, while 900 passengers can travel standing.

**360-Degree CCTV Cameras in Every Bogie**

Each bogie of the Patna Metro will be equipped with a 360-degree CCTV camera. There will also be an emergency button and a microphone in every bogie, the audio of which will be transmitted to the driver. The Patna Metro is poised to be a significant boon for Bihar. It will revolutionize Patna’s traffic management. The metro will provide relief to those struggling with increasing road congestion and traffic jams.

Despite the initial hurdles, the performance was greenlit. The task was to condense Ram’s life into four hours. With the support of other individuals, the editor sought help from Syed Mahfooz Hasan Khan Pundarik, the Chief Rajbhasha Officer of Eastern Railway in Kolkata. Pundarik, an expert on Ram Katha and a frequent visitor to the Ramayana Mela in Chitrakoot, was tasked with writing a concise play.

Pundarik suggested starting the play with the Ram Vivah (marriage) and concluding it with the Ravana Vadh (killing). He reasoned that since everyone knows Ram is an incarnation of Vishnu, there was no need to depict his birth. The resulting play was remarkable, covering Ram’s marriage, exile, the abduction of Sita, and finally, the slaying of Ravana.

The Ram Leela commenced at 2 PM and concluded at 6:30 PM. Dignitaries like Subhash Chakraborty, the transport minister of West Bengal, and the Kolkata Police Commissioner, Dinesh Vajpayee, graced the event. The minister presented awards to the performers. Afterward, the effigy of Ravana was burned. This Ram Leela was crucial to show the diversity within society, as Ram Leela is mainly celebrated in northern India.

The tradition of burning Ravana during Dussehra is predominantly observed in North India. While weapon worship (Ayudh Puja) occurs almost everywhere during Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, the significance of the day, as the day Ram killed Ravana, is not fully understood. Understanding the bright and dark aspects of Ram’s character is essential rather than merely following the ritual. Ram’s policies towards his enemies are important.

When Ram embarked on his mission to attack Lanka, he was alone, with his wife abducted and his brother Lakshmana, who was quick to anger. Finding allies in a foreign land with different customs and ethics was difficult. Ram’s behavior towards the backward and the deprived was not dogmatic. Ram ate Shabari’s berries and performed the last rites for Jatayu. We should consider our mythological characters in the context of high values. But along with Ram’s character, the Shambuk Vadh and the feeling of adopting a second-class status towards women are also attached.

Every Ramayana says that he is a subject-loving, egalitarian, and just, then how did his character have a feeling of discrimination towards the Shudra and women, no one has the answer to this. Accept the fact that Ram’s ideals are not suitable for today. We should take only those that are eternal truths. Ram’s such ideals are still revered today.

Ram’s decency gives him the form of God. He is the supreme being, but he never does his own thing. Even for the question of whether to give refuge to Ravana’s brother Vibhishana, he discusses it with Sugriva, Angada, Jamvant, and Hanuman. After Ravana’s death, he himself feels sad and says, today a great scholar is leaving this world. Therefore, O Lakshmana, you go to him and ask for forgiveness and humbly get guru-knowledge from him. He shows such respect towards his supreme enemy. This is his greatness.

Maharishi Valmiki wrote in his Ram Katha – Ikshvakuvanushprabhavo Ramo Nama Janaih Shrutah, Niyataatma Mahaveeryo Dyutiman Dhritiman Vashi! That is, Ram, born in the Ikshvaku dynasty, is patient, radiant, and self-controlled. He is known in the world by the name of Ram.

Ram is both worldly and otherworldly. He is a symbol of ideals in the Indian feudal system. When the kingdom was emerging in society, Maharishi Valmiki imagined a king who is Maryada Purushottam. A king who is a symbol of the best qualities in humans. He is a one-wife and risks his all to protect his wife.

He rejects such a vast and magnificent kingdom at his father’s command. He goes to the forest with his wife. His younger brother goes along. But the brother who gets the kingdom also hits the state and waits for the completion of the term of his elder brother’s exile. This is the story of a king who got the place of God because of his high character.

Throughout its hundred-year history, the RSS has faced three official bans: following the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, during the Emergency of 1975, and after the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992. However, in each instance, the government failed to produce concrete evidence linking the RSS to the incidents. Neither the Gandhi assassination, nor any conspiracy against the Indira Gandhi government in 1975, nor the demolition of the Babri Masjid could be directly attributed to the RSS. Consequently, the bans were lifted each time. Even after the defeat to China in October 1962, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru included an RSS contingent in the Republic Day parade of January 26, 1963. The RSS has consistently presented itself as a cultural organization, never explicitly identifying as a Hindu organization.

Aryatara succeeds Trishna Shakya, who is now 11 years old. Aryatara’s father shared that his wife had a dream during her pregnancy that their daughter would be special, and now, she has become a goddess. During festivals, Kumaris are paraded on chariots, and people seek their blessings by touching their feet. A third eye is painted on their foreheads, and they wear red clothes.

Chief Minister Sai announced that the film “Martyr King Guru Balkadas” would be tax-free in Chhattisgarh, allowing more people to see this inspiring story and connect with their history and heritage.

The Chief Minister emphasized that Chhattisgarh has always been the land of brave martyrs and saints. He urged the importance of understanding the history of the great freedom fighters. The film beautifully portrays the role of Chhattisgarh in the freedom struggle, the state’s rich culture, social harmony, the struggle against the British, and the simplicity of life.

Chief Minister Sai praised the talent within Chhattisgarhi cinema, highlighting the dedication of the artists, directors, and the entire unit. He noted that this is why Chhattisgarhi cinema is resonating with audiences today. He stated that the proposed film city by the state government will provide better infrastructure, more opportunities, and a national platform for Chhattisgarhi cinema. This will encourage local talent and further strengthen the state’s cultural identity.

During the visit, Swami Brahmavihar Dasji expressed gratitude to Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. He highlighted Sulayem’s consistent support for the temple’s journey, from facilitating the transportation of stones during the challenges of COVID-19 to supporting sustainable and progressive initiatives. He mentioned that Sulayem’s presence has been a source of strength and inspiration before, during, and after the inauguration.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem stated, “I am honored that we came here. It is an honor to be a small part of this amazing creation. This is entirely different from the previous visit. The location was inspiring. His Highness knew this would be the best place.” Recalling the temple’s construction, he said, “When I first came, there were scaffolding, raw land, and piles of sand. You described 3D-printed walls, immersive screens, and amazing carvings. I could understand, but I couldn’t imagine. Seeing it in its completed form today is truly amazing.” He praised the temple’s design, noting that everything is in perfect harmony. “The harmony of the design brings a smile. Visitors not only find a welcome here, but also experience culture, education, and understanding. This journey is a bridge connecting cultures.” Sulayem emphasized the UAE’s tolerance, stating that harmony did not begin with Sheikh Zayed; his ancestors fostered it, and Sheikh Mohammed is carrying it forward. Because of this, various communities, especially Indians, feel at home here. Tolerance is our greatest asset.

Describing the temple as not just a structure, but a place of the soul, he said it provides an infinite experience. “The mind, heart, and soul are satisfied. People who come here experience the soul. The dedication of the people in service speaks volumes without words. Every visit provides a new experience, and I will look forward to visiting again and again.” The BAPS Hindu Mandir was inaugurated on February 14, 2024. It is the first traditional Hindu temple in the UAE, spread over 27 acres, constructed using sandstone from Rajasthan.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem is a visionary figure shaping global trade and logistics. He has led DP World to be a leader in over 60 countries and made Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) the largest hub in the Middle East. He represents the UAE on the world stage. His visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi reflects his commitment to harmony, culture, and shared humanity.

The committee is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. To mark this golden jubilee, the committee has built a grand pandal on the Arpa River bank, inspired by Rajasthani culture. A ‘Jagrata’ program was held on the eve of Navratri, featuring a performance by renowned singer Dukalu Yadav, which drew a large crowd. A ‘Chunari Yatra’ was also held on the first day of Navratri, followed by the installation of the deity’s idol.

Organizers claim this Durga pandal is the biggest in Chhattisgarh. This year’s Navratri festival is being planned on the lines of a ‘Mahakumbh,’ with the Arpa River bank beautifully decorated. A fair has also been organized. For ten days, devotees can visit the Durga idol, and there will be performances by famous artists, including devotional songs and cultural programs.

The committee has built a Rajasthani-style pandal with artistic elements and a palace-like structure to make this year’s event special and attractive. The pandal, which covers an area of 2 lakh square feet, has been beautifully designed. Inside the pandal, there are tableaux and temple-like decorations showcasing Chhattisgarh’s culture, attracting a large crowd of visitors.

**Selection of 52 Artists for Three Years**
A total of 52 artists have been selected for the financial years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25, including the following categories:

* 22 Established Artists
* 18 Emerging Artists
* 6 National Awards
* 6 Lifetime Achievement Awards

**Selection Details:**

* 2022-23: 6 Established, 7 Emerging, 2 National, 2 Lifetime
* 2023-24: 8 Established, 5 Emerging, 2 National, 2 Lifetime
* 2024-25: 8 Established, 5 Emerging, 2 National, 2 Lifetime

**Awards and Financial Details**
The Bihar government will distribute a total of ₹27,72,000 in prize money to the selected artists. The awards will include the following amounts and commemorative items:

* National Award – ₹1,00,000 – Souvenir, Certificate, Angavastra
* Lifetime Achievement – ₹1,00,000 – Souvenir, Certificate, Angavastra
* Established Artist – ₹51,000 – Souvenir, Certificate, Angavastra
* Emerging Artist – ₹25,000 – Souvenir, Certificate, Angavastra

**Key Award Winners (Year 2022-23)**

* National Award: Chitra Prasad, Padma Shri Dulari Devi
* Lifetime Achievement: Anil Bihari, Suman Kumar

**Year 2023-24**

* National Award: Kalpana Patwari, Padma Shri Baua Devi
* Lifetime Achievement: Padma Shri Nirmala Devi, Bharat Singh Bharti

**Year 2024-25**

* National Award: Ratneshwar Prasad (Performing Arts), Ashok Kumar Vishwas (Visual Arts)
* Lifetime Achievement: Shivan Paswan (Godna Art), Bharat Sharma Vyas (Folk Singing)

In addition, a total of 18 other artists from contemporary art, folk art, theater, classical and folk music, musical instruments, dance, etc., will also be honored in various categories.

**Award Ceremony: Scheduled for September 24**
Minister Motilal Prasad said that the selection process, which had been pending for a long time, has now been completed. The award ceremony will be held on September 24, 2025, with the announcement of the awards for three years. Departmental Secretary Pranav Kumar said that more than 150 applications were received under this scheme, out of which high-quality artists were selected. He also informed that the application deadline for the Chief Minister Guru-Shishya Parampara scheme may be extended.

**State Government’s Commitment**
The Minister said in his address that the Bihar government is fully committed to recognizing, honoring, and encouraging artists. The Bihar Art Award is an inspiration to enrich the state’s cultural dignity and to touch new heights in the field of art.

The genesis of this research can be traced back to a Mauritian individual seeking to understand their ancestry, which led to the collection of samples and extensive analysis. The study reveals the strong cultural ties that have endured across generations and continents.

Historians note that while the Portuguese initially claimed Mauritius in 1510, the Dutch began bringing laborers from Africa in 1670. Later, the British brought laborers from UP and Bihar after taking control of Mauritius in 1810, particularly following the abolition of slavery. These migrants brought with them their traditions, including the worship of the Ganga and Chhathi Maiya. They carried with them sacred items like Tulsi garlands, Ganga water, and the Ramcharitmanas, preserving their faith despite immense hardship.

Today, the celebration of Gangai Mata and Chhathi Maiya continues in Mauritius, reflecting the enduring legacy of their ancestors. The ‘jahaji bhai’ bond, established among those who sailed together to Mauritius, remains strong. Despite the presence of a caste system, it functions without the same divisions seen elsewhere. The resilience and cultural preservation of the Mauritian people of Indian descent is a testament to their ancestors’ values, where action is valued over mere words.

Professor RPB Singh highlights how these Bhojpuri-speaking migrants, even while facing hardship, found solace in reciting the Ramcharitmanas, defending their culture, and establishing Mauritian Hinduism. The enduring impact of this heritage is seen in the fondness for products like ‘Pahalwan Chhap’ bidis, that the migrants carried with them. These bidis became a symbol of the struggle and survival of their ancestors, symbolizing their enduring spirit.