Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the former President of Suriname, has died at the age of 67. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Surinamese politics.

Santokhi served as President from 2020 until 2025, taking the reins of a country grappling with economic turmoil left by former dictator Desi Bouterse. His leadership was pivotal in stabilizing the nation through an IMF-supported program.

Before his presidency, Santokhi was the Minister of Justice and Police from 2005 to 2010, where he gained notoriety for investigating the 1982 killings of political opponents, a dark chapter in Suriname’s history.

Known affectionately as ‘Chan’ and nicknamed ‘The Sheriff’, Santokhi was of Indo-Surinamese heritage and had a deep appreciation for Indian culture, even delivering his oath of office in Sanskrit.

His presidency faced challenges, including protests over rising fuel and electricity prices, leading to his denial of a second term in the May 2025 elections.

Jennifer Geerlings-Simons remarked, “his years of service in various public functions will be remembered,” highlighting his impact on the nation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, stating, “Deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of my friend and the former President of Suriname, Mr. Chandrikapersad Santokhi Ji. This is not only an irreparable loss to Suriname but also to the global Indian diaspora.”

Modi also noted Santokhi’s fondness for Indian culture, saying, “He won several hearts when he took oath in Sanskrit.”

Rob Jetten added, “As President, and in his other roles, he meant a great deal to Suriname,” reflecting on Santokhi’s legacy.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the circumstances of his death, but tributes continue to pour in from around the world, recognizing his contributions to Suriname and beyond.

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Sri Rama Navami 2026 is poised to be a grand celebration, taking place on March 26. This auspicious day marks the birth anniversary of Lord Shri Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is celebrated with fervor across the country.

In Ayodhya, the heart of Ram devotion, festivities will extend to March 27, allowing thousands of devotees to gather for the occasion. The Navami Tithi will commence at 11:48 AM on March 26 and conclude at 10:06 AM the following day, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration.

The Rama Navami Madhyahna Muhurat, a crucial time for rituals, will occur between 11:13 AM and 01:41 PM on March 26, with the Madhyahna Moment at precisely 12:27 PM. These times are essential for devotees performing puja rituals and chanting mantras in honor of Lord Shri Ram.

As part of the celebrations, devotees will engage in various traditional practices, including the recitation of the Ramacharitmanas Path at homes and temples. This epic narrative of Lord Ram’s life is central to the festivities, fostering a sense of community and devotion.

Additionally, Kanya pujan will be performed, where food, clothes, and useful items are distributed to underprivileged girls, symbolizing respect and reverence for women, which is a significant aspect of the festival.

Ram Navami is not just a day of worship; it marks the culmination of Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine. The synergy of these celebrations amplifies the spiritual atmosphere, drawing in devotees from all walks of life.

As preparations ramp up, observers anticipate a vibrant turnout in Ayodhya, with temples adorned and streets bustling with devotees. Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific events planned for the celebrations, but the excitement is palpable.

The post Sri Rama Navami 2026: Key Dates and Celebrations appeared first on India News.

Ram Navami, a significant Hindu festival, will be celebrated on March 27, 2026. This day marks the birth of Lord Shri Ram, revered as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The festival is observed with immense devotion and enthusiasm across India, particularly in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram.

The Navami Tithi, which is crucial for the celebration, begins on March 26, 2026, at 11:48 AM and concludes on March 27, 2026, at 10:06 AM. This timing is essential for devotees planning their rituals and prayers.

During the festivities, devotees engage in prayers, fasting, and temple visits, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with spiritual fervor. Ram Navami also marks the end of Chaitra Navratri, another important period of worship in the Hindu calendar.

On March 26, the Madhyahna Muhurat, a significant time for rituals, will occur from 11:13 AM to 01:41 PM, with the Madhyahna Moment specifically at 12:27 PM. These moments are pivotal for conducting prayers and ceremonies dedicated to Lord Ram.

Historically, Ram Navami is one of the most sacred festivals in India, celebrating the values of truth, duty, and righteousness that Lord Ram embodies. The festival draws thousands of devotees who come together to honor their faith.

As the date approaches, preparations in Ayodhya and other parts of India will intensify, with temples adorned and special events planned. The anticipation among devotees is palpable as they prepare to celebrate this auspicious occasion.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any specific events planned for 2026, but the spirit of devotion and celebration is expected to be as strong as ever. Ram Navami continues to be a beacon of hope and faith for millions.

The post When is Ram Navami in 2026? appeared first on India News.

Ram Navami, a major Hindu festival, will be celebrated on March 27, 2026, with millions expected to gather in Ayodhya. This event marks the birth anniversary of Lord Rama, revered as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The Navami Tithi begins on March 26 at 11:48 AM and concludes on March 27 at 10:06 AM. The auspicious Madhyahna Muhurat for puja rituals is from 11:13 AM to 1:41 PM, with the exact birth moment of Lord Rama occurring at 12:27 PM.

Devotees across India will perform puja rituals and chant mantras, seeking blessings from Lord Rama. Many will observe fasts and partake in community gatherings, embodying the ideals of righteousness and duty that Lord Rama represents.

As Ram Navami approaches, Ayodhya is gearing up for a massive influx of pilgrims. The festival is expected to draw millions, concluding the nine-day Chaitra Navratri festival, celebrated with fervor nationwide.

“Ram Navami is the most prominent Hindu festival, which is celebrated with great grandeur and enthusiasm across the country,” a local priest stated.

Lord Rama is often referred to as Maryada Purushottam, the supreme man who lived by the highest code of ethics. His life and teachings inspire countless devotees.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific security measures and arrangements for the expected crowds. However, preparations are underway to ensure a smooth celebration.

With the festival highlighting themes of devotion and community, Ram Navami serves as a reminder of the values that Lord Rama embodies. The anticipation builds as the date approaches, promising a vibrant and spiritual atmosphere in Ayodhya.

As millions prepare to commemorate this auspicious occasion, the spirit of unity and devotion will resonate across the nation.

The post Ram Navami Celebrations Set for March 27, 2026 appeared first on India News.

“Ram Navami will be celebrated on March 27, 2026.” This announcement sets the stage for one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

In 2026, the Navami Tithi begins on March 26 at 11:48 AM and concludes the following day at 10:06 AM. The auspicious Madhyahna Muhurat for puja will be observed from 11:13 AM to 1:41 PM on March 27, with the critical Madhyahna Moment occurring at 12:27 PM.

Ram Navami is celebrated on the ninth day of Chaitra Shukla Paksha, coinciding with Chaitra Navratri. The festival is a time for devotees to engage in fasting, prayers, and community gatherings, reflecting the ideals of righteousness, duty, and devotion embodied by Lord Ram.

Millions of pilgrims are expected to flock to Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, to partake in the festivities. The city will transform into a hub of spiritual activity, with devotees conducting Ramacharitmanas Path in homes and temples.

As the date approaches, preparations are ramping up across the country. The grandeur and enthusiasm surrounding Ram Navami are palpable, with celebrations planned not only in Ayodhya but also in various parts of India.

This year, the overlap of the festival with other significant observances has led to some confusion regarding the exact date of observance. However, the focus remains on the Madhyahna Kaal, believed to be the precise time of Lord Ram’s birth.

As devotees prepare to honor Lord Rama, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The festival serves as a reminder of the values that Lord Ram represents, inspiring countless individuals to reflect on their own lives.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific events planned in Ayodhya, but the spirit of Ram Navami is expected to shine brightly across the nation.

The post Ram Navami 2026 Set for March 27 in Ayodhya appeared first on India News.