New Year

In a bizarre coincidence, a California-based woman, Fatima Madrigal, gave birth to twins just 15 minutes apart but the newborn's date of birth will fall on different dates. The coincidence happened when Madrigal gave birth to her son Alfredo on December 31 at 11:45 pm but his sister, Aylin, was born after 15 minutes on January 1. ''I was surprised and happy that she arrived at midnight,'' said Madrigal.      

On the occasion of New Year, the Kashi Vishwanath Dham registered the footfall of over five lakh devotees in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi. This is said to be the largest footfall ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated phase 1 of the newly-constructed temple. However, the administration had expected around 1 lakh devotees, reported ANI. Earlier on Mahashivratir, the largest number of visitors was never recorded over 2.5 lakh… read-more

Maharashtra government imposed section 144 in Mumbai to curb the spread of COVID-19 starting from December 30, till January 7, 2022. In the meantime, any New Year party, celebrations have also been banned in restaurants, hotels, bars, pubs, resorts, and clubs. Besides, Mumbaikars have been advised to celebrate the occasion at their home. The government has also prohibited religious and cultural programmes and processions to avoid gatherings… read-more

After almost five years of silence, London's iconic Big Ben clock tower is set to chime from the beginning of 2022. It was closed in 2017 for the restoration work. The clock tower is situated on the bank of the Thames River and is also known as Elizabeth Tower. ''By New Year people will start to see a big difference,'' said Nicholas Sturge, the project manager.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, on December 20, inaugurated the 11th edition of the Christmas festival. During the launch at Allen Park in Park Street, Kolkata, Banerjee said, "If we have to restore mental peace, a smiling face is the only alternative. Just like green and clean environment are our only alternative". The festive event will continue till December 31st with local band's performance and Carol songs.