Gangaur Festival 2026: Celebrating the Divine Union of Shiva and Parvati

By

-

February 25, 2026, 10:37 AM

Gangaur is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Rajasthan, observed with great devotion and cultural उत्साह across the state. The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Gan) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri) and symbolizes marital bliss, conjugal harmony, and devotion.

Gangaur Dates

Wed, 4 Mar, 2026 – Sat, 21 Mar, 2026

The word “Gan” is a synonym for Lord Shiva, while “Gauri” represents Goddess Parvati, his divine consort. Gangaur celebrates their sacred union and is considered an auspicious festival for love, marriage, and prosperity.

When is Gangaur Celebrated?

Gangaur is celebrated in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March–April), marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The festival begins on the first day of Chaitra and culminates on the 18th day, known as the main Gangaur celebration day.

Significance for Women

Gangaur holds special importance for women and girls in Rajasthan.

Unmarried girls worship Gan and Gauri, praying for a good husband.
Married women pray for the long life, prosperity, and well-being of their husbands.

Clay idols of Gan and Gauri are worshipped in homes throughout the festival period. Women observe rituals, sing traditional folk songs, and decorate their hands with mehendi (henna) on the eve of Gangaur.

Grand Procession in Jaipur

One of the highlights of Gangaur is the royal Gangaur procession in Jaipur, which starts from the Zanani-Deodhi of the City Palace. The procession passes through:

Tripolia Bazaar
Chhoti Chaupar
Gangauri Bazaar
Chaugan Stadium
Finally concluding near Talkatora

The procession features beautifully decorated palanquins, chariots, bullock carts, and vibrant folk performances, showcasing Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.

Immersion Ceremony

On the final day, the idols of Gan and Gauri are ceremoniously immersed in a pond or nearby lake, marking the conclusion of the festival with devotion and celebration.

New York Flights Cancelled As Massive Snowstorm Paralyzes US Northeast

By

EBNW Story

-

February 25, 2026, 10:23 AM

0

New York Flights Cancelled: A powerful winter storm brought heavy snowfall and strong winds across the northeastern United States, forcing airport runways to shut down and causing widespread travel disruptions. More than 11,055 flights were canceled between Sunday and Tuesday, according to flight-tracking company FlightAware.

New York Flights Cancelled As Massive Snowstorm Paralyzes US Northeast

On Monday alone, around 5,600 to 5,700 flights were canceled, accounting for nearly 20% of all flights nationwide. The National Weather Service reported up to 37 inches of snow in parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, making it one of the most intense snowstorms in recent years.

Power Outages and Historic Disruptions

The storm knocked out power to over 600,000 homes across the region. By Monday evening, 519,232 homes and offices remained without electricity. The extreme conditions even forced The Boston Globe to miss its print edition for the first time in its 153-year history, as staff could not reach the printing facility.

Record-Breaking Snowfall

New York’s Central Park recorded around 20 inches of snow.
Islip, Long Island received more than 22 inches.
Providence, Rhode Island, recorded 32.8 inches, breaking the previous record of 28.6 inches set in 1978.

Emergency Declarations and Travel Bans

Several states declared emergencies as the storm worsened. In New York City, schools, roads, bridges, and highways were temporarily closed. Mayor Zohran Mamdani later lifted the emergency order as conditions improved and announced that schools would reopen on Tuesday.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey imposed travel bans in affected areas and urged residents to stay indoors. Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee issued a statewide travel ban, while New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide emergency and placed the National Guard on alert.

PM Narendra Modi Embarks on Two-Day Israel Visit: Focus on Defence Deals, Iron Dome, and Al Drones

By

Nirjala Gaud

-

February 25, 2026, 9:53 AM

0

PC: (The Times of Israel, NDTV)

PM Modi Leaves for Historic Two-Day Visit to Israel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Wednesday for a two-day visit to Israel at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday, PM Modi will hold extensive talks with Netanyahu during the visit. The discussions are expected to further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Israel.

Second Visit by PM Modi to Israel – A Milestone in Bilateral Ties

This marks Prime Minister Modi’s second visit to Israel as Prime Minister. His landmark first visit in 2017 made him the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the Jewish-majority nation. The current visit is widely seen as a potential turning point in India’s military modernisation efforts, with deep focus on defence, technology, and security cooperation.

Iron Dome Air Defence System – A Major Highlight of the Visit

Just ahead of the visit, Israel’s Consul General in India, Yaniv Revach, stated that Israel is ready to supply its world-renowned Iron Dome air defence system to India. Importantly, this would not be a simple purchase deal – the proposal includes joint production in India under the Make in India initiative. The Iron Dome is a mobile, all-weather, short-range air defence system capable of detecting and destroying rockets, mortars, and drones within a 4-70 km range, offering critical protection to border areas and populated cities.

Al-Powered Drones and Next-Generation Defence Technologies

Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, emphasised that the visit will centre around defence and artificial intelligence, forging an unbreakable security bond between the two nations. Both countries are expected to collaborate on developing Al-enabled drones capable of autonomous decision-making and precision strikes with minimal human intervention. This cooperation aims to address emerging threats, including terrorism.

Defence Deals Worth Approximately 71,000 Crore on the Table

Government sources indicate that defence agreements valued at around ₹71,000 crore (approximately $8.5 billion) could be finalised during the visit. The proposed package reportedly includes. Spice 1000 precision-guided bombs. Rampage air-to-ground missiles. Air LORA ballistic missiles technical collaboration on advanced laser-based weapon systems. These acquisitions are expected to significantly enhance India’s precision strike and air defence capabilities.

PM Narendra Modi Embarks on Two-Day Israel Visit: Focus on Defence Deals, Iron Dome, and Al Drones

Proposed New Security Alliance and Global Issues

The two leaders will also discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest. Israel has proposed a new security network involving India, Israel, Greece, and Cyprus to counter extremism and regional instability. PM Modi is scheduled to address a joint session of the Israeli Knesset (parliament), where the world’s attention will be focused on this emerging defence axis.

Expanding Cooperation Beyond Defence

In addition to defence and security, the visit will cover cooperation in science & technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, trade & economy, and people-to-people exchanges. PM Modi will also meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

This visit is not merely diplomatic – it is set to open a new chapter in deep-rooted defence, technological, and strategic partnership between the world’s largest democracy and the Middle East’s leading innovation hub.

T20 World Cup: Rinku Singh leaves India camp before Zimbabwe clash due to family emergency

By

Nirjala Gaud

-

February 25, 2026, 9:46 AM

0

PC: (The News Indian Express, X)

Family Emergency Forces Rinku Out of Camp

In a shocking turn just days before a do-or-die fixture, India batter Rinku Singh has abruptly left the national team’s camp in Chennai and flown back home to attend to a serious family emergency. The left-handed middle-order specialist missed India’s crucial practice session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Sources close to the BCCI confirmed to PTI and other outlets that Rinku rushed back early Tuesday morning after learning of his father’s deteriorating health. He had only arrived in Chennai with the squad on Monday following India’s recent Super 8 setback.

Father Khanchand Singh in Critical Condition

Rinku’s father, Khanchand Singh, has been admitted to a hospital in Greater Noida and is reportedly in serious condition. Multiple reports indicate he has been battling a prolonged illness-specifically stage-4 liver cancer-for nearly a year, with his health worsening significantly in recent days. He is currently on ventilator/life support, prompting Rinku’s immediate departure to be by his side during this difficult time. The family is from Aligarh, and this personal crisis has understandably taken priority over cricketing commitments. The cricket fraternity, including teammates, fans, and former players, has flooded social media with prayers and messages of support for Rinku and his family, wishing for a speedy recovery.

T20 World Cup: Rinku Singh leaves India camp before Zimbabwe clash due to family emergency

Doubts Loom Over Availability for Must-Win Clash

Rinku’s sudden exit has created significant uncertainty over his participation in India’s high-stakes Super 8 Group 1 match against Zimbabwe on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the same Chepauk venue (starting 7:30 PM IST / 2:00 PM GMT). The BCCI and team management are yet to issue an official update on his status, but sources suggest he is a major doubt and may not rejoin in time. This comes at a critical juncture-India need a strong win to boost their semifinal prospects after a heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa in Ahmedabad. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will fancy their chances on a spin-friendly Chepauk pitch, making Rinku’s absence a potential blow to India’s middle-order firepower and finishing prowess.

Rinku’s Struggles in the Ongoing T20 World Cup

The 29-year-old Rinku, renowned for his explosive finishing in T20 is (career strike rate over 150), has endured a disappointing tournament so far. His scores in the 2026 T20 World Cup reflect below-par form:

6 (14 balls) vs one opponent

1 (6 balls)

11* (4 balls)

6* (3 balls)

0 (duck in 2 balls) vs South Africa in the heavy loss.

Overall, he has managed just 24 runs across five innings at a modest strike rate. Despite his underwhelming returns, Rinku remains a key asset as a reliable finisher, excellent fielder, and part-time off-spinner. His absence could disrupt India’s death-overs strategy and lower-order stability.

Potential Impact on Team India and Replacements in Focus

Rinku’s departure adds to India’s selection dilemmas in the Super 8 stage. With the middle order needing stability and acceleration, the team management may turn to options like Sanju Samson (who has been training intensely and could slot in as a finisher/wicketkeeper-batter) or others such as Tilak Varma or Shivam Dube for additional firepower. The Chepauk pitch traditionally assists spinners, so India’s bowling unit (led by Jadeja, Axar, and possibly Kuldeep) will be crucial, but the batting lineup will miss Rinku’s composure under pressure. Team India has expressed full support for Rinku, prioritizing family over cricket, and hopes he can rejoin if his father’s condition stabilizes.

Fans and Fraternity Rally in Support

The cricket world has united in solidarity. Social media is abuzz with heartfelt messages-“Get well soon to Rinku’s father” and “Family first, Rinku-come back stronger” from fans, legends like Virat Kohli-era players, and current teammates. This human side of the sport reminds everyone that beyond boundaries and scores, personal health and family remain paramount.

India vs Zimbabwe promises electric intensity, with the hosts desperate for momentum in their home World Cup campaign. Updates on Rinku’s return will be closely monitored in the lead-up to the February 26 showdown.

India–Israel Bilateral Relations to Receive Major Boost As PM Modi to Visit Israel Today…

By

EBNW Story

-

February 24, 2026, 11:11 PM

0

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel is expected to significantly strengthen India–Israel bilateral relations. The high-level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will focus on multiple strategic, economic, and technological areas.

Key Points of Discussion Between India and Israel

1. Defence and Security Cooperation

Expansion of joint defence projects and technology transfers
Counter-terrorism cooperation and intelligence sharing
Joint military exercises and defence manufacturing partnerships

2. Science, Technology and Innovation

Collaboration in artificial intelligence, cyber security, and space technology
Joint research and innovation programs between institutions and startups
Technology partnerships in smart cities and digital infrastructure

3. Agriculture and Water Management

Israeli expertise in drip irrigation and water conservation
Joint projects in agriculture productivity and food security
Cooperation in desalination and wastewater recycling technologies

4. Trade and Economic Partnership

Boosting bilateral trade and investment
Cooperation in manufacturing, renewable energy, and infrastructure
Expansion of India–Israel Free Trade and business cooperation frameworks

5. People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges

Strengthening tourism, education, and cultural ties
Student exchange programs and academic collaborations
Promotion of cultural and heritage exchanges

6. Regional and Global Geopolitical Issues

Exchange of views on Middle East developments
Global security challenges and international cooperation
Strategic alignment between two democratic nations

Expected Outcome of the Visit

Experts say the visit could lead to new agreements and MoUs, strengthening India–Israel strategic partnership and deepening cooperation in defence, technology, economy, and innovation.

Shahid Kapoor Birthday: 10 Years of Togetherness With Wife Mira Rajput And Lovely Kids. Watch Photos…

By

EBNW Story

-

February 24, 2026, 11:01 PM

0

Shahid Kapoor birthday: Bollywood is home to many adorable celebrity couples, but Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput—along with their two children, Misha and Zain—have carved a truly special place in fans’ hearts. From playful social media banter to heartfelt anniversary messages, their journey proves that arranged beginnings can blossom into a beautiful and lasting love story.

As the couple marks a decade of togetherness, fans are revisiting their sweetest moments online—those candid photos, funny captions, and emotional tributes that have made them one of Bollywood’s most relatable and loved couples.

From glamorous red carpet appearances to cozy family moments at home, Shahid and Mira’s Instagram feed has always been a perfect mix of romance, laughter, and parenting joy.

Here we bring Shaheed’s pics with Mira. Also here comes his son’s pics and his pics with his mother and father and brother…

Shahid Kapoor Birthday: 10 Years of Togetherness With Wife Mira Rajput And Lovely Kids. Watch Photos...

Israel Boosts Tourism Bond with India, Visa Easing Planned

By

EBNW Story

-

February 24, 2026, 3:08 PM

0

The Government of Israel has approved a new initiative to deepen tourism cooperation with India, including a dedicated allocation of 4 million NIS by the Israel Ministry of Tourism to expand engagement in the Indian market and advance the signing of a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in tourism—subject to parallel allocation by the Government of India.

The decision forms part of a broader governmental effort to strengthen bilateral relations between Israel and India across multiple sectors, with tourism identified as a key area for growth and collaboration.

At the centre of the initiative is the promotion of a tourism MoU between the Israel Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The proposed agreement is expected to establish a joint working group focused on policy dialogue, innovation, regulation, and strategic planning. It will also encourage cooperation between national tourism authorities, local governments, airlines, and private sector stakeholders in both countries.

The joint working group will examine practical steps to increase travel volumes between Israel and India and develop tailored tourism offerings for the Indian market, with particular emphasis on leisure travel, family tourism, business travel, and the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment.

Haim Katz, Minister of Tourism, said:
“Strengthening tourism cooperation between Israel and India is a strategic priority with significant long-term potential. India is one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Advancing a formal Memorandum of Understanding and establishing a joint working mechanism will create a structured, operational framework to increase travel flows, develop joint tourism products, and reinforce economic and people-to-people ties between our countries.”

Galit Hoffman, Consul – Tourism Affairs, Israel Ministry of Tourism in India, added:
“This government decision marks an important milestone in advancing tourism ties between Israel and India. With a dedicated allocation to expand our activities in the Indian market, we are entering a new phase of focused and sustained growth. India is not only a rapidly expanding outbound travel market, but also a strategic partner for Israel. Through deeper collaboration with the Indian travel trade and aviation sector, and by working alongside relevant Israeli authorities to streamline travel procedures, we aim to create stronger, long-term tourism flows and make visiting Israel more accessible and attractive for Indian travellers.”

In parallel, the Israel Ministry of Tourism will conduct a joint review with the Israel Population and Immigration Authority and other relevant authorities to explore ways to ease visa procedures for Indian tourists and enhance the overall entry experience into Israel.

These measures are expected to support a significant increase in inbound tourism from India and contribute to the continued growth of Israel’s tourism sector.

Now, ‘E-Tongue’ and ‘E-Nose’ to Test Tirumala Prasadam Quality

By

EBNW Story

-

February 24, 2026, 1:33 PM

0

Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh: Known for embracing digital governance and technology-driven public services, Andhra Pradesh has now turned to cutting-edge food testing technology to ensure the purity of Tirumala temple prasadam.

Amid recent controversies over the quality of ghee supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the state government is setting up an ultra-modern food testing laboratory equipped with advanced electronic systems such as an “E-Tongue” and “E-Nose” to ensure strict quality control and transparency.

₹25 Crore High-Tech Food Lab Nears Completion

Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav said the state is establishing the modern laboratory at a cost of ₹25 crore, with most of the work already completed.

“E-Tongue and E-Nose ultra-modern food laboratory services can detect even micro-level quality deterioration in ghee. These labs will soon be made available in Tirumala,” Yadav said in an official press release.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sanctioned ₹23 crore for the project, with an agreement signed in New Delhi on October 8, 2024.

How E-Tongue and E-Nose Technology Works

Just like humans use the tongue and nose to detect taste and smell, electronic tongue (E-Tongue) and electronic nose (E-Nose) systems analyse flavour and aroma profiles using sensors and algorithms.

E-Tongue: Detects taste patterns and microscopic deterioration in ghee and raw materials
E-Nose: Analyses aroma profiles to identify adulteration and quality defects

These technologies are widely used in advanced food industries but are rare in religious institutions, making Tirumala one of the first pilgrimage centres in India to adopt such systems.

Comprehensive Testing for Prasadam and Raw Materials

The laboratory will test:

Laddu prasadam and other temple food items
Ghee and dry fruits
Water and raw materials

Samples will be screened for:

Pesticide residues
Heavy metals
Microbial contamination
Antibiotics

The facility will house around 50 advanced instruments capable of detecting nearly 200 pesticide residues, ensuring global-level food safety standards.

Vijay Deverakonda–Rashmika Mandanna Wedding Begins Today in Udaipur: Venue, Date, Luxury Hotel Details

By

EBNW Story

-

February 24, 2026, 1:26 PM

0

South Indian film stars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna have kick-started their wedding celebrations from today, Tuesday, with Udaipur chosen as the destination for their grand wedding. The couple is set to tie the knot on February 26, making this one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings of the year.

The bride and groom, along with their families, arrived at the wedding venue on February 23 and checked into the ultra-luxury hotel ITC Mementos Ekaaya, Udaipur.

Why Vijay Deverakonda & Rashmika Chose Udaipur for Their Wedding

Nestled near the Eklingji Temple, ITC Mementos Ekaaya is surrounded by the serene Aravalli hills and is located nearly 25 km away from the city’s hustle, offering privacy, luxury, and breathtaking natural views.

The calm environment, royal charm, and scenic beauty of the City of Lakes reportedly impressed the couple, prompting them to travel from South India to Rajasthan for their wedding festivities.

ITC Mementos Ekaaya Udaipur: A Luxury Wedding Destination

Vijay Deverakonda–Rashmika Mandanna Wedding Begins Today in Udaipur: Venue, Date, Luxury Hotel Details

Owned by the ITC Group, Mementos Ekaaya Udaipur is spread across 106 acres of lush greenery and natural landscapes.

Key Highlights of the Hotel

117 luxury rooms and suites
Private balconies and garden views
Several suites with private swimming pools
Panoramic views of the Aravalli ranges
Stunning sunrise and sunset views from rooms

Inside the 4 Ultra-Luxury Suites

1. Grand Presidential Suite

This suite is a resort in itself, featuring:

24-hour private chef service
Dedicated butler team
Three bedrooms with coral-white interiors
Wellness and spa therapy areas
Large private hall for functions
Private swimming pool and jacuzzi-fitted limestone bathroom

💰 Starting price: ₹2 lakh per night

2. Aravalli Suite

Private swimming pool
Bathtub and lush private lawn
Elegant interiors
24-hour butler service

3. Smritichinh (Souvenir) Suite

360-degree views of the Aravalli range
Two bedrooms and one living room
Direct sunrise and sunset views
Spread across 127 sq m
Accommodation for up to 6 guests
24-hour butler service

4. Presidential Suite

Spacious rooms with large windows
Canopy beds
Private lawn and swimming pool
Jacuzzi-equipped bathroom
Living-cum-dining area
Spread across 514 sq m
Can accommodate up to 12 guests

Luxury Villas at the Wedding Venue

Valley View Villa

Overlooks lush green valleys
Ideal during monsoon and misty mornings
45 sq m area
Maximum 3 guests

Lake View Villa

Scenic views of the Honeydew Lake
Peaceful and private setting
45 sq m area
Up to 3 guests

Premium Villa

Private pool and gazebo for lantern-lit dinners
Alaska gold granite flooring and artistic glass décor
63 sq m area
Up to 3 guests

Grand Pre-Wedding Function Arrangements

The hotel features a massive pre-function area, including:

5-acre open garden space
Multiple breakout and green rooms
Perfect setups for mehendi, sangeet, and reception ceremonies

Kerala to Be Renamed ‘Keralam’ Ahead of Assembly Elections 2026? Cabinet Set to Present Name Change Bill Today

By

EBNW Story

-

February 24, 2026, 1:15 PM

0

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday (February 24, 2026) approved the renaming of the State of “Kerala” to “Keralam”, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced. On June 24, 2024, the Kerala Assembly passed a unanimous proposal urging the Union government to rename the State as “Keralam”.

Earlier, there were reports coming in that the state of Kerala may soon be officially renamed “Keralam”, with the state Cabinet expected to approve a name change bill on Tuesday—just months ahead of the Kerala Assembly Elections 2026. The move reflects a push for cultural identity while also carrying significant political implications.

Kerala to Rename as ‘Keralam’ Before Assembly Elections 2026

The Kerala Legislative Assembly had already passed a resolution urging the Union government to rename the state “Keralam.” The resolution, introduced by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, was passed unanimously, signalling broad political consensus at the state level.

Lawmakers argued that “Keralam” is the authentic Malayalam name, while “Kerala” is the anglicised version retained in the Constitution since state reorganisation in 1956. The Assembly requested the Centre to amend the First Schedule of the Constitution and related official documents to reflect the name change.

A similar proposal had been raised earlier but was reintroduced after technical feedback from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

What Does the Kerala Name Change Bill Mean?

Now the bill will be forwarded to the Union Government and Parliament. Under Article 3 of the Indian Constitution, the power to change a state’s name lies with Parliament, following a recommendation from the President.

The name change would require:

Approval by both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
A constitutional amendment
Presidential assent

Once completed, “Keralam” would replace “Kerala” in the Constitution, government records, legal documents, signage, and administrative references.

Supporters say the move aligns the state’s official identity with its linguistic and cultural heritage, while critics warn of logistical and financial challenges in updating records, signage, and official materials.

Political Timing Ahead of Kerala Assembly Elections 2026

The timing of the proposal—just before the 2026 Assembly polls—has added a political dimension to the debate. Analysts believe the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is aiming to tap into regional pride and linguistic identity to mobilise voters.

Opposition parties argue that symbolic name changes should not overshadow pressing governance, economic, and development issues facing the state.

Historical Context: State Name Changes in India

Kerala’s proposal follows a pattern seen in other Indian states.

Uttaranchal was renamed Uttarakhand in 2007
Orissa became Odisha in 2011

These changes were implemented through Parliamentary approval to better reflect local language and cultural identity.

What Happens Next?

When the Cabinet clears the bill, it will move to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, then to Parliament for approval. The process could take months, and the name “Keralam” will not become official until the constitutional amendment is enacted and signed by the President.

Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: Key Political Context

Kerala is preparing for Assembly elections in 2026, with the current 140-member Assembly’s term ending in May 2026. Polling is expected in March–April 2026, though the Election Commission has not announced official dates.

Kerala currently has over 2.69 crore registered voters, with women forming a majority, along with third-gender voters and persons with disabilities, indicating high democratic participation.

Political parties are already in campaign mode:

The BJP is seeking to expand its presence, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to visit Kochi on March 6 to release the NDA manifesto.
The LDF and UDF are finalising candidate lists and grassroots strategies to retain or regain dominance in the state.

Analysts predict a highly competitive election, with cultural identity, governance, and economic issues shaping voter sentiment.

Final Outlook

While today’s Cabinet decision could mark a historic step toward renaming Kerala as “Keralam,” the final call rests with Parliament and the President. Whether the move becomes a cultural milestone or a political talking point will depend on how voters and lawmakers respond in the months leading up to the 2026 polls.