How Holi Adds Color to the Lives of Widows in Vrindavan

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Bound by tradition and living in poverty, thousands of Hindu widows endure lives of austerity in the sacred city of Vrindavan. However, the festival of Holi offers them a brief moment of color and joy, providing a rare escape from their hardships. Vrindavan, believed to be the childhood home of Lord Krishna, has long served as a sanctuary for widowed Hindu women. Widowhood in Hindu society has historically been stigmatized, with widows expected to lead lives of austerity and refrain from participating in auspicious events. Often considered a financial burden on their families, many widows seek refuge in holy places like Vrindavan, where they survive on the charity provided by the State, NGOs, temples, and ashrams. Amid this struggle, Holi brings a rare burst of color to their lives. For a short time, the festival offers them a chance to break free from societal customs and enjoy a moment of fun and celebration.

Why Nitish Cabinet expansion has sparked JD(U) fears of BJP play for ‘supremacy’

  The induction of seven new ministers, all from the BJP, into Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Cabinet appears to have created uneasiness in the state’s ruling NDA coalition, with a section raising concerns that it has “upset” the power balance ahead of the Assembly elections due in six months.

While some leaders of the Nitish-led JD(U) argue that the Cabinet expansion was long pending since the BJP had not filled the Cabinet vacancies in its share for over a year, others in the party pointed out that the BJP’s decision to appoint ministers from the castes considered to be the JD(U)’s support base, did not go down well with the coalition, especially at a time when the allies have started their poll preparations. BJP sources said it was a move to “reinforce” the party’s “superiority” ahead of the seat-sharing discussions and strategy planning.

The expansion inducted three ministers belonging to forward castes – Rajputs, Bhumihars and Vaishya (Baniya) – and one each from Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs). It is being projected as the BJP’s attempt to do caste balancing in its state leadership.

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