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Navratri is celebrated four times a year in Hindu calendar as it aligns with key seasonal transitions and changes in natural energy cycles. Chaitra Navratri (March-April) marks the beginning of Hindu lunar calendar year. Sharad Navratri (September-October) is the most widely celebrated Navratri. Ashadha Navratri (June-July) and Magha Navratri (January-February) are Gupt (secret) Navratris.

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit Russia on Friday, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre said. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said there was no tsunami warning, advisory, watch or threat following the earthquake. Minutes after the Russia quake, the Japan Meteorological Agency mistakenly sent out a 9.9-magnitude earthquake alert.

The Kali Swang procession, a 103-year-old tradition, was taken out in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj as part of the ongoing Navratri festivities. The artist who portrays Goddess Kali during the procession must observe six months of spiritual discipline and observe a satvic diet. The artist carries weapons, a crown, a garland of skulls and jewellery which collectively weighs around 18-20 kg.

On the sixth day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Katyayani, who's believed to be the most violent form of Maa Parvati. According to Hindu beliefs, she is associated with courage and victory over negativity, and worshipping her blesses devotees with harmony and marriage prospects. Wearing grey on this day is believed to symbolise grounded strength and balance.

Green is the colour associated with the sixth day of Navratri in 2026, symbolising nature, growth, fertility, peace and serenity. It is also linked to new beginnings, and devotees observing the tradition can wear green outfits or incorporate the colour into their festive attire. The sixth day is dedicated to Maa Katyayani, one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Iran-aligned Houthis fired five missiles at the Maashiq Presidential palace complex in Yemen’s Aden on Thursday, killing two guards, government officials told Reuters. Yemen’s PM and cabinet members present at the complex were unharmed, a minister said. This comes amid escalating tension between Houthis and Saudi Arabia, which backs Yemen's internationally recognised government.

The ECI has directed 17 states and UTs, including Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, West Bengal and Kerala, to conduct a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of electoral rolls, with January 1, 2027, as the qualifying date. The Commission said schedules for places undergoing or having recently completed SIR will follow separately. The announcement comes amid a row over the SIR exercise.

Gold prices fell for the fourth straight day in India, declining ₹900 to ₹1,49,900/10 grams in Delhi on Thursday. Silver also extended its decline, plunging ₹6,000 to ₹2.15 lakh per kg, from the previous close of ₹2.21 lakh per kg. Globally, spot gold rose $49.32, or 1.2%, to $4,154.65 per ounce.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers to Maa Skandamata, the goddess of motherly love and affection, during Navratri. "The fifth day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship and adoration of Mother Skandamata. May the blessings of Mother, the Goddess of maternal affection and tenderness, forever fill every family with love and harmony," PM Modi stated.

The proposed IDBI Bank stake sale will not affect existing fixed deposits or savings accounts, as the lender will continue to be regulated by RBI, experts said. Deposits are insured by DICGC up to ₹5 lakh per depositor per bank. While existing terms will remain unchanged, the new owners could revise deposit rates and savings account fees in the future.