Uttarakhand

Rani Mukerji Visits Kedarnath & Badrinath Temples

Rani Mukerji Visits Kedarnath & Badrinath Temples, Offers Special Prayers During Pitru Paksha..

Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji arrived at Kedarnath Shrine on Thursday, October 8th, where she visited the deity and offered prayers. During this pilgrimage, which coincided with the special occasion of Shraddha Paksha (Pitru Paksha), she performed special prayers for the peace of the souls and memory of her ancestors, and prayed for the prosperity and well-being of the nation and state. Rani Mukerji first arrived at the shrine of Baba Kedarnath on Thursday morning. There, the priests performed a special ritual for her. After the darshan, she praised the Himalayan environment and natural beauty of Kedarnath, saying that this city of Baba is like heaven, where she found immense peace of mind. After Kedarnath, she proceeded to Bhu-Vaikunth Badrinath Shrine, where she visited Lord Badri Vishal at around 12 noon. After the prayers, she offered the Mahadhwaj at the Badrinath Temple and bowed her head at the Goddess Lakshmi Temple. The actress was warmly welcomed at both the shrines by the officials and officers of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) and was presented with special prasad and angavastra of the Lord.

Rani Mukerji Visits Kedarnath & Badrinath Temples, Offers Special Prayers During Pitru Paksha.. Read More »

“Bedu Pako Baro Masa”: The Evergreen Uttarakhand Folk Anthem

“Bedu Pako Baro Masa”: The Evergreen Uttarakhand Folk Anthem That Made Mohan Upreti Pandit Nehru’s ‘Bedu Pako Boy’

Everyone has heard the song “Bedu Pako Baro Masa.” If you know about Uttarakhand and its culture, you’ve certainly heard this song as well. “Bedu Pako Baro Masa” isn’t just a folk song from the land of gods, but it embodies the soul, culture, and identity of the mountains. Originating from the valleys of Kumaon and Garhwal, this song has gained worldwide recognition. Yet, even today, many people still have a deep appreciation for this song. The credit for bringing this evergreen song to international recognition goes to the legendary theatre personality and musician Mohan Upreti. Mohan Upreti first sang it on stage at the Government Inter College (GIC) in Nainital in 1952. Given the song’s immense popularity, Mohan Upreti and Naima Khan Upreti recorded it for the renowned music label His Master’s Voice (HMV). Brijendra Lal Shah wrote the lyrics, while Mohan Upreti and Brijmohan Shah composed the music. Mohan Upreti, a renowned figure in Uttarakhand, is remembered for his efforts to revive Uttarakhandi folk music and preserve old Uttarakhandi ballads, songs, and folk traditions. Mohan Upreti is best known for his song “Bedu Pako Baro Masa.” Mohan Upreti, 1928, Almora. This song reflects the direct connection between Uttarakhand’s mountain life, its nature, and its people. The weather and beauty of the mountains are depicted through “bedu” (a type of wild fig) and “kafal” (a sweet and sour mountain fruit). A very interesting historical anecdote related to this song involves India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. In 1955, Mohan Upreti’s troupe sang this song in front of Nehru during an event organized to welcome Soviet leaders (Khrushchev and Bulganin) at Teen Murti Bhavan in Delhi. Jawaharlal Nehru was so impressed by the melody and energy that he couldn’t help but join in the dance. Nehru subsequently declared the song his favorite folk song. Impressed by the song, Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru nicknamed Mohan Upreti “Bedu Pako Boy.”

“Bedu Pako Baro Masa”: The Evergreen Uttarakhand Folk Anthem That Made Mohan Upreti Pandit Nehru’s ‘Bedu Pako Boy’ Read More »

FIR Against YouTuber Anurag Dobhal (UK07 Rider)

FIR Against YouTuber Anurag Dobhal (UK07 Rider) in Dehradun Over Assault, Death Threats in Family Dispute…

An FIR has been registered at the Nehru Colony police station in Dehradun against popular YouTuber and “Bigg Boss 17” fame Anurag Dobhal, aka “The UK07 Rider,” on serious charges of assault, obstruction of a road, and death threats. The police action was taken based on a complaint filed by the victim. In the complaint, Raj Singh Chauhan, an employee at a car company showroom, stated that Anurag Dobhal is his brother-in-law (cousin). The victim alleges that on October 5th, at around 6 p.m., Anurag arrived with some friends and choked him from behind. The accused then tried to snatch his mobile phone and, when unsuccessful, threatened to kill him with an iron rod, a knife, and a gun. The victim also alleged that he and his family were threatened with death during the assault. His watch and gold chain were also taken. According to initial investigations and reports, the entire incident is believed to be related to a family dispute. It is reported that Raj Singh Chauhan’s cousin, Ritika Dobhal, is Anurag Doval’s wife. There is an ongoing family dispute between the two. Anurag had called Raj to discuss this matter. After the dispute escalated, an allegation of assault has been made. The Nehru Colony police station has registered a case under relevant sections based on the complaint filed by the victim, Raj Singh Chauhan. Police officials say that due to the seriousness of the matter, an investigation has been initiated and evidence from the scene of the incident is being examined. Further legal action will be taken after the investigation. Nehru Colony police station in-charge Devendra Chauhan stated that based on Raj Singh Chauhan’s complaint, the names of Anurag Dobhal, Abhay Chaudhary, Tapan Pandit, Dhawal Rajpurohit, Abhishek Tiger, Abhinav Srivastava, and Guru Bhai, among others, have been mentioned. Police have registered a case against the accused under sections 117(2), 191(2), and 351(3) of the IPC. The police are investigating the matter.

FIR Against YouTuber Anurag Dobhal (UK07 Rider) in Dehradun Over Assault, Death Threats in Family Dispute… Read More »

Masoom Sharma

Haryanvi Singer Masoom Sharma faces Protests Outside Stadium, Apologises to Uttarakhand Audience…

Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma was confronted by protesting crowds at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Dehradun on Thursday, October 1, before his performance at the closing ceremony of the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) final. The Uttarakhand Kranti Dal (UKD), Mool Niwas and Bhu-Kanoon Sangharsh Samiti and other groups protested against his appearance saying slogans like ‘Go Back’ and demanding that his performance be cancelled. They were reportedly detained by the police as security was beefed up around the venue. The controversy arises from an alleged objectionable and abusive use of language by Sharma at DAV (PG) College, Dehradun in April 2026. An FIR was registered at the Dalanwala police station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and police sent a notice to the singer regarding the case. Sharma expressed regret over his remarks and said that he shouldn’t have used such language. Prior to Sharma’s performance at the UPL on Thursday, talks reportedly took place between Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU) and representatives of groups objecting to the singer’s performance. According to The Times of India, the groups sought cancellation of the performance while officials at CAU said that a part of the artist’s payment had already been made. Reportedly, the committee made one condition that Sharma should publicly apologise to the people of Uttarakhand from the stage before performing. Sharma took the stage to perform and publicly apologised before starting his act. he expressed regret if his words had hurt anyone and sought forgiveness from the people of Uttarakhand. He performed songs like his popular Haryanvi numbers as the UPL final proceedings continued.

Haryanvi Singer Masoom Sharma faces Protests Outside Stadium, Apologises to Uttarakhand Audience… Read More »

Masoom sharma

Masoom Sharma to Perform at UPL Closing Ceremony in Dehradun, Controversy Resurfaces…

Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma is once again in the news in Uttarakhand. Questions have been raised about the singer’s performance in the state capital, Dehradun. This time, the matter concerns the closing ceremony of the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL). The final and closing ceremonies are scheduled for October 1, 2026, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun. Sharma has been invited to perform live. Information regarding Sharma’s performance has also surfaced on the official social media handle of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU). CAU officials have also confirmed his participation. However, even before the closing ceremony, questions have been raised about the event. The Bajrang Dal has alerted the administration, stating that decorum in language and performance must be maintained in Devbhoomi. Congress leaders have questioned the government and organizing committee, asking why he was re-invited to such a large stage in Devbhoomi despite the old controversy and FIR, while payments to local artists are pending. Masoom Sharma’s Main Controversy Masoom Sharma’s previous controversy stems from his involvement with Dehradun’s DAV (PG) College. On April 10-11, 2026, Masoom Sharma performed a cultural program at the Dehradun DAV (PG) College Student Union function. During the program, he allegedly used highly obscene, offensive, and abusive language (abusive language) in front of students from the open stage. After a video of the incident went viral on social media, an FIR was filed against Masoom Sharma at the Dalanwala police station in Dehradun based on a complaint from student union representative Pranchal Nauni. Police charged him under sections 296, 352, 79, and 351(3) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Seeing the controversy escalating, Masoom Sharma released a video apologizing. He clarified that prior to the show, a miscreant had threatened to kill him and his family, causing him to experience immense mental stress and uttering the inappropriate words in a fit of rage. In May 2026, he appeared before the Dehradun Police and recorded his statement.

Masoom Sharma to Perform at UPL Closing Ceremony in Dehradun, Controversy Resurfaces… Read More »

Priyanka Meher Faces Social Media Backlash

Badrinath Controversy: Priyanka Meher Faces Social Media Backlash, Questions Raised Over Singling Out the Artist…

The controversy surrounding a cultural event near Badrinath Dham has sparked a heated debate on social media, with Uttarakhand folk singer Priyanka Meher at the centre of the discussion.Videos of her performance at the Devbhoomi Cultural Festival 2026 have gone viral, prompting criticism over the nature of the event and the use of music and dance near the sacred pilgrimage site.Several social media users and religious representatives have raised concerns about maintaining the sanctity and religious traditions of Badrinath Dham. At the same time, the controversy has led to a wave of comments targeting Priyanka Meher personally.While questions about religious decorum and the choice of venue deserve discussion, another important question is being raised: Why is the entire controversy revolving around the artist, when the event was organized with the involvement of the authorities and organizers? According to reports, the festival was organised under the Indian Army’s Operation Sadbhavana initiative, in collaboration with the Chamoli district administration and the Uttarakhand Tourism Department.The district administration has stated that the Army was responsible for conducting the programme and selecting the performances.The debate has now extended beyond the event itself, with discussions focusing on the responsibility of the organizers, the role of the administration, and the treatment of artists on social media.Respecting the religious significance of Badrinath Dham and respecting artists should not be treated as opposing issues. Questions about the event should be addressed through facts and accountability, rather than personal attacks.The central question remains: Who should be held accountable for the decisions behind the event, and why is the artist alone facing so much public criticism?

Badrinath Controversy: Priyanka Meher Faces Social Media Backlash, Questions Raised Over Singling Out the Artist… Read More »

Uttarakhand Film Awards 2024 & 2025

Uttarakhand Film Awards 2024 & 2025: First-Ever State Honours for Local Films, Languages & Talent; Entries Open Till Oct 16

As part of a major initiative by the Uttarakhand Film Development Council (UFDC), the official “Uttarakhand Film Awards 2024 and 2025” will be held in Uttarakhand for the first time. The primary objective of this state-level award is to provide a major national platform and recognition to Uttarakhand’s local films, languages ​​(such as Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari), local artists, and technical talent. Films produced or filmed in Uttarakhand in 2024 and 2025, as well as films produced in Uttarakhand’s regional dialects, Hindi, and other Indian languages ​​included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, will be honored. Outstanding artists, technicians, and other creative individuals associated with the film industry will also be honored. Digital entries and online applications for the “Uttarakhand Film Awards 2024 and 2025” film awards began on September 15th, with the deadline being October 16th, 2026. Eligible films and artists can apply by visiting the official website of the Uttarakhand Film Development Council, ufdc.uk.gov.in. According to data released by the Uttarakhand Film Development Council, more than 1,440 film shooting/NOC-related activities have been registered in the state from 2019-20 to 2025-26. This has increased employment and self-employment opportunities in the state, not only in film production but also in hotels, transportation, catering, local services, and other sectors. Banshidhar Tiwari, Chief Executive Officer of the Uttarakhand Film Development Council, stated that the inaugural Uttarakhand Film Awards 2024 and 2025 are an important initiative to honor and recognize local films, languages, artists, and technical talent.

Uttarakhand Film Awards 2024 & 2025: First-Ever State Honours for Local Films, Languages & Talent; Entries Open Till Oct 16 Read More »

Dandi-Kanthi Club to Honour 17 Folk Artists

Dandi-Kanthi Club to Honour 17 Folk Artists with State Musical Instruments Award 2026 in Dehradun…

A special cultural event will be held in Dehradun on September 17th to promote Uttarakhand’s rich folk culture and traditional musical instruments. Organized by the Dandi-Kanthi Club, the event will honor 17 folk artists from across the state with the “State Musical Instruments Award 2026.” The event will be held in the Culture Department auditorium from 5 p.m. The event will also feature performances of Uttarakhand’s traditional folk genres and folk instruments. Performances of traditional instruments, including the Dhol-Damaun, along with Jagar, Pawad, folk songs, and folk dances, will be key highlights. The event aims to honor artists who have contributed to the promotion of the mountain’s folk traditions and cultural heritage over the years. Five senior officials who have made significant contributions to the field of folk culture will also be honored with the “Dandi-Kanthi Ratna 2026” award. Folk artists, Jagari, Dhol players, literary figures, and culture lovers from various regions of the state will participate in the event. Organizers say that in these changing times, it’s essential to preserve traditional folk forms so that the new generation can remain connected to their cultural roots and folk traditions. According to Vijay Bhushan Uniyal, President of the Dandi-Kanthi Club, the club is continuously working to preserve Uttarakhand’s folk culture and traditional arts. The awards ceremony aims to not only encourage artists but also connect the younger generation with the state’s cultural heritage.

Dandi-Kanthi Club to Honour 17 Folk Artists with State Musical Instruments Award 2026 in Dehradun… Read More »

Hanuman Ansh

Hanuman Ansh Day 38 Box Office: Neem Karoli Baba Film Continues Strong Run, Crosses Rs 250 Crore…

Vishal Chaturvedi’s Hanuman Ansh, based on the life and teachings of spiritual figure Neem Karoli Baba, is continuing its remarkable theatrical run even in its sixth week. According to trade reports, the film added around Rs 22.50 crore to its India net collection on Day 38, taking its India net total to approximately Rs 214.63 crore. Its worldwide gross has now reached around Rs 268.05 crore, putting the film comfortably past the Rs 250 crore milestone. What makes the film’s box-office journey particularly surprising is its modest beginning. Hanuman Ansh opened in theatres on August 7 with a reported Day 1 collection of just Rs 10 lakh. However, strong word-of-mouth among audiences gradually transformed the film’s fortunes. The movie, made on a reported budget of around Rs 2 crore, witnessed a sharp rise in collections in the later weeks and has continued to attract viewers despite competition from newer releases The film’s success has also turned Hanuman Ansh into an unusual box-office story for 2026. Its devotional and spiritual subject, coupled with positive audience response, has helped it maintain momentum far beyond its initial theatrical expectations. Reports indicate that the film has also performed strongly against competing releases such as Mirzapur: The Movie and Haiwaan. With the worldwide collection already around Rs 268 crore, all eyes are now on how far Hanuman Ansh can go in the coming days. Its extraordinary jump from a slow opening to a blockbuster-level theatrical run makes it one of the most unexpected success stories of the year.

Hanuman Ansh Day 38 Box Office: Neem Karoli Baba Film Continues Strong Run, Crosses Rs 250 Crore… Read More »

Former CM Harish Rawat resigns from all Congress posts

Former CM Harish Rawat resigns from all Congress posts, citing ED action at former colleague’s residence…

Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Harish Rawat has resigned from all his party positions. This decision came after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided the premises of his former aide and personal assistant, Chandan Singh Jeena. Rawat, speaking on social media, said that his actions should not weaken the Congress party’s fight. Indeed, the ED conducted searches at several locations, including Dehradun, in connection with alleged irregularities in the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC)’s 2016 Gram Panchayat Development Officer examination. According to the agency, approximately ₹32 lakh in unaccounted cash, approximately 200.5 grams of gold, and 12 expensive watches were recovered from Chandan Singh Jeena’s residence. Additionally, approximately ₹52.16 lakh in bank accounts belonging to Jeena and his family has also been frozen. Following this action, Harish Rawat clarified his position, stating that the truth behind the reports of the seizures from his aide’s house will be revealed after an investigation. Rawat also questioned the allegations against Chandan Jina, stating that he did not believe them. He also stated that if any lapses are proven on his part, he should be held accountable. Harish Rawat’s decision has caused a stir in Uttarakhand Congress politics. However, the investigation into the ED’s actions and the seized assets is still ongoing, and the seizures cannot be interpreted as a conviction of any individual. Further investigations by the investigating agencies and the emerging facts in the entire matter will be closely monitored.

Former CM Harish Rawat resigns from all Congress posts, citing ED action at former colleague’s residence… Read More »