Maha Shivaratri was observed across India with extraordinary fervor as millions of devotees gathered in temples and pilgrimage centers to honor Lord Shiva through prayer, fasting and night-long vigils. Major shrines, including Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, Shankaracharya Temple and Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, witnessed heavy footfall, prompting elaborate security and crowd-management measures.

In a striking display of devotion and artistic discipline, sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik unveiled an intricate installation made of 17,000 rudraksha beads at Puri Beach to commemorate Maha Shivaratri. The expansive artwork, centered on Lord Shiva and inscribed with the sacred chant “Har Har Mahadev,” drew pilgrims and tourists alike. Beyond its spiritual symbolism, the tribute highlighted the cultural economy surrounding religious festivals, reinforcing the intersection of faith, tourism and creative enterprise that continues to shape India’s evolving devotional landscape.

Maha Shivaratri, one of Hinduism’s most revered festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, will be observed on February 15, 2026, across India and among global Hindu communities. Falling on the fourteenth day of the waxing lunar phase in the month of Phalguna, the night is considered highly auspicious for prayer, fasting and meditation. Devotees mark the occasion with temple visits, ritual offerings and the chanting of sacred hymns. Key puja timings, including the Nishita Kaal and Parana period, hold special importance for worshippers seeking spiritual merit.

In a significant reform of India’s school examination ecosystem, the Punjab School Education Board has announced the adoption of a comprehensive on-screen marking system for the March 2026 board examinations, following similar steps by the Central Board of Secondary Education. Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains described the move as a structural transformation aimed at enhancing transparency, speed and accuracy in evaluation.

Maha Shivaratri, one of India’s most significant Hindu festivals, witnessed millions of devotees thronging temples and pilgrimage centers across the country this year. From the ancient corridors of Kashi Vishwanath Mandir to the serene heights of Shankaracharya Temple and the historic precincts of Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, the festival underscored both spiritual devotion and economic momentum.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was admitted to Fortis Hospital Mohali on Sunday after experiencing a sudden spike in blood pressure while attending public events. The episode occurred following his participation in Maha Shivaratri engagements in Sangrur district. Accompanied by Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal, Mann was transported to Chandigarh for medical evaluation. Doctors confirmed that his vital parameters are stable and within normal limits.

Veteran actress Ratna Pathak Shah has publicly expressed concern over a growing trend among younger actors prioritizing charm and “cute entertainer” personas over nuanced craft and artistic depth. Speaking at a recent industry panel, Pathak emphasized the importance of professionalism, character development, and commitment to storytelling in shaping sustainable careers. Analysts suggest that her remarks reflect broader industry debates about commercialization, celebrity branding, and the balance between marketability and performance quality.

The highly anticipated second season of Kohrra promises to immerse audiences in a new, complex murder investigation set in Punjab, expanding on the critically acclaimed storytelling of its first season. Produced with high production values, the series combines intense narrative, rich character development, and atmospheric cinematography to create a gripping crime drama. Analysts note that the show’s focus on regional settings, cultural nuances, and investigative depth aligns with growing audience interest in realistic, locally grounded narratives.

Bollywood actress Mrunal Thakur has publicly addressed circulating rumours regarding her wedding, clarifying the speculations and emphasizing her focus on professional commitments. The rumours, widely covered across social media and entertainment outlets, sparked public curiosity and intensified media attention. Thakur’s response underscores the challenges faced by high-profile celebrities in balancing personal privacy with public scrutiny. Industry analysts note that proactive communication by celebrities can help manage narratives while maintaining brand image.

Television actress Rupali Ganguly has publicly praised the visual quality of the upcoming film Dhurandhar: The Revenge, highlighting the production’s cinematic craftsmanship. The film, which blends action and drama, is generating buzz for its high-quality visual effects, location design, and cinematography. Ganguly’s endorsement underscores growing industry recognition for technical excellence in Indian cinema, as filmmakers increasingly invest in production values to appeal to domestic and global audiences.