Latest News
Cathedral Hagia Sophia, A 1500 years old church converted to mosque, Turkey’s President said its Turkey’s ‘sovereign right’.
The order of the highest court stated, “It was concluded that the settlement deed allocated it as a mosque and its use outside this character is not possible legally. The cabinet decision in 1934 that ended its use as a mosque and defined it as a museum did not comply with laws.”
As reported, Erdogan said in a national address, “With this court ruling, and with the measures we took in line with the decision, Hagia Sophia became a mosque again, after 86 years, in the way Fatih the conqueror of Istanbul had wanted it to be.”
In a press conference, Erdogan informed that the first Muslim prayers would be held inside Haga Sophia on July 24. He also told, ” Like all our mosques, the doors of Hagia Sophia will be wide open to locals, and foreigners, Muslims and Non-Muslims.” The Turkish officials clearly mentioned that the Christian emblems like mosaics of the Virgin Mary on the golden dome of the cathedral would not be removed.
According to Erdogan, the status of Hagia Sophia is their domestic matter where any intervention from ‘international players’ is not welcome. This decision has prompted criticism from various religious and political leaders from across the globe.
Reportedly, UNESCO has stated that it deeply regrets this decision of converting the museum into a mosque and has asked Turkish authorities to immediately open a dialogue without delay. UNESCO further added that its World Heritage Committee would review Hagia Sophia’s status. The Eastern Orthodox Church, the Russian Orthodox Church, Cyprus, the US and Greece too have criticized this decree and have condemned it. They also accused this Turkey’s decision of ignoring voices of millions of Christians. Hagia Sophia has long been the symbol of Muslim- Christian Cultural Rivalry and this decision could now lead to greater divisions since Hagia Sophia is a site which is equally revered by both, Christians and Muslims.
It is apparent that Erdogan headed Turkish government has quashed its secular foundations with this step. Is this decision taken to strengthen the Islamisation of the Turkish society and to gain political mileage? However, the political gain would be short term but can cost long term disharmony between Christians and Muslims.
Hagia Sophia, famous for the grandeur of its iconic dome, is the landmark of Istanbul and is a magnet for tourists worldwide. Today, it is Turkey’s most popular tourist attraction drawing more than 3.6 million visitors last year.
Navi Mumbai Civic Body Bridges the Healthcare Gap with Free Screenings and Follow-up Care Across Local Centers.
The Drive
In a major boost to public health, 1,292 citizens were screened during a free cancer detection drive conducted across various health centers by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC).
The initiative focused on early detection for common cancers including oral, breast, and cervical cancers giving local residents access to crucial preventive care close to home. Medical teams set up diagnostic stations at Urban Primary Health Centers (UPHCs) to ensure seamless access, particularly for working-class and middle-income families.
Beyond basic checkups, civic health teams provided guidance on early warning signs, lifestyle risks, and the importance of routine health monitoring. Citizens identified with potential symptoms received direct referrals to municipal hospitals for further testing and subsidized follow-up treatment.
Community health drives play an essential role in saving lives by catching illnesses before they progress. By making preventive care accessible to all, NMMC continues to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across the city.
Community comes together in Kukshet Village to honor Maharashtrian heritage with folk games, music, and local camaraderie.
Celebrating Tradition
Highlighting the rich cultural fabric of the region, women across Nerul gathered at the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Kukshet Village to celebrate Nag Panchami. Organized under the guidance of former Mayor Sujata Patil and local representative Suraj Patil, the annual festival brought Ward No. 23 alive with traditional music, energetic games, and community spirit.
The temple courtyard transformed into a vibrant hub of Maharashtrian heritage as over 100 local women participated in age-old folk traditions that are increasingly rare in modern urban life. Attendees filled the air with traditional Nag Panchami and Mangalagaur songs while joining hands for lively rounds of Zimma and Phugdi. The day featured classic games including Kombda, Katwatkhana, blowing into copper pots (Kalshi Phunkne), and dancing with decorated earthen pots.
Beyond the cultural performances, the gathering highlighted strong neighborhood ties. Local residents expressed deep appreciation for the safe, supportive environment fostered in the area, noting that community initiatives like these strengthen mutual trust and preserve local culture for younger generations. With smiling faces, traditional rhythms, and shared prayers for prosperity, this year’s Nag Panchami reaffirmed the power of community traditions in keeping local heritage vibrant and strong.
Meta Multispeciality Hospital in Ghansoli opens with free care for newborn baby girls and elderly citizens.
The Hospital
Access to quality healthcare just got a major boost for local families. Meta Multispeciality Hospital officially opened its doors in Ghansoli Sector 4, promising state-of-the-art medical technology alongside a deeply human approach to community care.
The facility was inaugurated by Forest Minister and Palghar Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik, who toured the premises to inspect its emergency wards, OPD facilities, and advanced diagnostic machinery. Speaking to attendees, Naik praised the hospital’s leadership for prioritizing affordable, high-quality treatment for middle-class households.
What sets the hospital apart, however, is its landmark social welfare initiative announced during the opening by community leader Sagar Chougule and hospital administrator Dr. Swarna Shelke:
- Free Maternity Care for Girl Child Deliveries: To celebrate and encourage the birth of female children, the hospital will waive all delivery charges for mothers giving birth to baby girls.
- Free OPD Services for Seniors: Outpatient consultations will be entirely free for senior citizens aged 65 and above.
“Healthcare shouldn’t feel like an unbearable financial burden,” said Dr. Shelke. “Our primary goal is to bring modern medical infrastructure within reach of every everyday citizen.”
With monsoon-related illnesses on the rise, the team also plans to host free community health camps to catch seasonal infections early. By blending modern medicine with genuine community compassion, the new hospital aims to build a healthier, safer Navi Mumbai.
Over 1,200 Residents Screened in NMMC’s Latest Cancer Awareness Drive
Nerul Women Gather for Vibrant Nag Panchami Festivities
Navi Mumbai Gets New High-Tech Hospital with a Heart
Nidhi Razdan, fake Harvard professorship, and here is the explanation through her blog.
As the arrangement with Prashant Kishor falls through Rahul Gandhi has gone overseas again and is uncontactable
BSNL reveals all new 4G plans starting at ₹16
-
Fact Check6 years agoNidhi Razdan, fake Harvard professorship, and here is the explanation through her blog.
-
India4 years agoAs the arrangement with Prashant Kishor falls through Rahul Gandhi has gone overseas again and is uncontactable
-
Technology5 years agoBSNL reveals all new 4G plans starting at ₹16
-
Latest News5 years agoGovernment has spent ₹9,725 crores on Covid-19 vaccination drive so far
-
Latest News5 years agoTata wins Air India with ₹18,000 crore bid
-
Latest News5 years agoJharkhand government cuts Petrol price by massive ₹25 a litre but with a catch
-
Latest News5 years agoRaj Kundra Gave ₹25 Lakh Bribe to Mumbai Crime Branch to Avoid Arrest
-
Navi Mumbai5 years agoNavi Mumbai civic body raids and tests morning walkers, many found COVID positive