Nag Panchami will be celebrated with enthusiasm across Maharashtra on August 17, 2026. The festival involves worshipping Lord Shiva and the Snake God (Nag Devta) to seek protection and relief from Kaal Sarp Dosha. This year, the festival coincides with Shravan Somwar and features a rare combination of Shiva and Sadhya Yoga. The article provides various traditional Marathi greetings and messages for people to share with their loved ones on this auspicious occasion. https://www.tv9marathi.com/spiritual-adhyatmik/send-these-auspicious-wishes-to-your-loved-ones-and-relatives-on-the-occasion-of-nag-panchami-1735514.html

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched the second phase of raids in the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payment case. Inspections are being conducted at eight locations, including Kozhikode. The investigation focuses on allegations that Veena Vijayan's company, Exalogic, received Rs 1.72 crore from CMRL without providing any services. The ED is acting based on documents provided by the SFIO and is investigating potential money laundering. This move precedes possible asset attachment and further interrogation of those involved. https://www.southlive.in/ed-raids-again-in-the-cmrl-exalogic-monthly-payout-case-inspections-conducted-at-eight-locations-including-kozhikode/

During the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, a missile strike hit the ArcelorMittal mining and metallurgical complex owned by Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal in Kryvyi Rih. The attack killed two people and injured 14, leading to a partial shutdown of the plant. This follows a massive Ukrainian drone strike across Russia, involving over 800 drones, which caused civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, including a fire at a Wildberries warehouse. Both nations have intensified deep-range strikes, leading to the highest civilian death rates since early 2022. https://www.madhyamam.com/world/missile-strike-on-lakshmi-mittals-arcelormittal-plant-in-ukraine-1546511

A priest at the Sorimuthu Ayyanar Temple in Tirunelveli has been suspended for wearing a devotee's donated five-metal (Aimpon) chain during a festival. The chain, worth approximately ₹26,000, was donated by a devotee named Damodaran. After a video of the priest wearing the ornament went viral and a formal complaint was lodged, HR&CE officials conducted an inquiry. Priest Senthil was suspended for his actions, and another priest, Pitchaiya, faces potential action for handing over the jewelry without official permission. https://tamil.oneindia.com/news/thirunelveli/tirunelveli-sori-muthu-ayyanar-temple-priest-wore-five-metal-gold-jewelry-see-what-happened-now-824471.html

During a heated debate in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin criticized the government over the law and order situation, specifically citing a murder in Coimbatore linked to drug gangs. He alleged that ruling party members are facing sexual harassment charges and that police negligence led to recent crimes. Minister Aadhav Arjuna's counter-comments regarding the number of opposition members were expunged from the assembly records by the Speaker. The session focused on health and disaster management department discussions. https://www.vikatan.com/government-and-politics/tn-assembly-live-update-dated-17-08-2026

IRCTC has launched the 'Arunachala Moksha Yatra' tour package covering Puducherry, Arunachalam, and Kanchipuram. The 4 nights/5 days trip starts every Friday from Kachiuguda station. It includes train travel, hotel accommodation, and breakfast. Pricing varies based on occupancy and class (SL/3AC), starting from Rs. 9,840 for group bookings. Key destinations include Auroville, Arunachaleswarar Temple, and Kanchi Kamakshi Temple. https://tv9telugu.com/spiritual/arunachala-moksha-yatra-5-day-tour-package-covering-puducherry-arunachalam-kanchipuram-1890155.html

Madhya Pradesh Food Safety Department has identified 16 major ghee brands as unsafe or substandard following a state-wide investigation. The analysis revealed the presence of palm oil and harmful additives in brands across cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Ujjain. Major failed brands include Shagun, Dwarkesh, Bhumi, and Vastu. Food Safety Controller Manoj Pushp has ordered strict legal action against manufacturers and sellers under the FSSAI Act to protect public health from adulterated food products. https://moomalartnews.com/news.php?id=caution-regarding-kitchen-ghee-quality-of-16-brands-in-mp-under-scrutiny-643171

The Health Department has issued guidelines to prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Key factors leading to these conditions include lack of exercise, obesity, and poor diet. The report emphasizes maintaining a healthy BMI (18-24), daily physical activity, and reducing the intake of fast food, especially in children, to ensure long-term well-being. https://www.rashtradeepika.com/lifestyledeceases-healthnews-familyhealth-overweight/

This article explains how to prepare a refreshing homemade drink using the yellow outer shell of nutmeg. The process involves boiling and grinding the nutmeg pieces, then mixing them with sugar, lemon juice, and chilled water. https://keralaonlinenews.com/food/jathikka-juice-recipe/cid19130605.htm

A weekly guide to spiritual events in Tamil Nadu from August 18 to August 24, 2026. Key highlights include Sashti fasting, Varalakshmi Vratam, and several divine plays (Leelas) at the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, including the Coronation and Puttu Leela. Special services at Tirupati, Swamimalai, and Tiruttani temples are also listed alongside auspicious days for rituals. https://www.dailythanthi.com/devotional/aanmigam-this-weeks-special-events-18th-august-2026-to-24th-august-2026