Petra’s hidden gems: Lesser-known sites to explore

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**Petra’s Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Sites to Explore**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 24, 2025, 02:13 pm*

Petra, the ancient city in Jordan, is renowned worldwide for its stunning architecture and rich history. While the iconic Treasury and Monastery attract most tourists, several lesser-known sites within Petra offer equally fascinating experiences. These hidden gems reveal diverse aspects of the city’s past and showcase remarkable architectural marvels. Exploring them provides a unique insight into Petra’s cultural heritage beyond the usual sights.

### 1. The Royal Tombs: A Majestic Burial Site
The Royal Tombs are an impressive collection of elaborate tombs carved directly into the rock face. Constructed for Petra’s elite, these tombs are famed for their intricate facades and grand scale. Visitors can admire the detailed carvings and learn about the ancient Nabataean burial customs. Offering a quieter atmosphere compared to busier attractions, the Royal Tombs allow for a more reflective and intimate appreciation of Petra’s history.

### 2. The Great Temple: A Monumental Complex
Often overshadowed by more famous landmarks, the Great Temple is one of Petra’s largest architectural complexes. This massive structure contains interconnected rooms and courtyards, highlighting its significance in religious and social life. Archaeological excavations have uncovered various artifacts suggesting the temple served as a center for worship and administration. Visiting the Great Temple provides a fascinating glimpse into the community life of ancient Petra.

### 3. The Byzantine Church: A Glimpse into Early Christianity
Tucked away within Petra’s vast landscape, the Byzantine Church stands as a symbol of early Christian influence in the region. The site is renowned for its stunning mosaics depicting scenes from daily life and nature, offering insight into the artistic styles of the period. Architecturally, the church differs from other Petra structures, illustrating the diverse religious traditions that once coexisted here.

### 4. Al-Beidha: The Little Petra Experience
Also known as Little Petra, Al-Beidha is located just a few kilometers from Petra’s main site. This smaller settlement boasts similar rock-cut architecture but on a more intimate scale. Visitors can explore narrow canyons lined with carved facades, providing an up-close look at Nabataean craftsmanship without the crowds of the larger site. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter, more personal encounter with Petra’s heritage.

### 5. The High Place of Sacrifice: A Spiritual Summit
Perched atop Jebel al-Madhbah, the High Place of Sacrifice offers breathtaking panoramic views over Petra’s landscape below. This sacred site was historically used for ritual offerings conducted by priests, who sought divine favor and guidance from the gods. The site’s elevated position and spiritual significance make it a powerful place to reflect on Petra’s ancient religious practices while enjoying stunning vistas.

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Exploring these hidden gems enhances your Petra experience by unveiling layers of history and culture often missed by the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient tombs, architectural grandeur, early Christian art, or spiritual traditions, Petra’s lesser-known sites await your discovery.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/petra-s-hidden-gems-lesser-known-sites-to-explore/story

Sydney film festival to screen ‘Sholay’ with original ending

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**Sydney Film Festival to Screen ‘Sholay’ with Original Ending**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 24, 2025, 01:41 PM*

The iconic Bollywood film *Sholay*, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Jaya Bachchan, is set to be screened at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS) with its original ending. This special screening follows the film’s successful presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where audiences experienced the movie as director Ramesh Sippy originally intended.

The Indian Film Festival of Sydney will take place from October 9 to 11, offering fans a unique opportunity to see this restored classic in its true form.

### Film Restoration: The Original Ending Returns

The original ending of *Sholay* features Sanjeev Kumar’s character, Thakur, personally killing the notorious villain Gabbar Singh. This conclusion was initially rejected by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), deemed too violent for release. As a result, the filmmakers shot an alternate ending in which Thakur hands Gabbar Singh over to the police.

Thanks to the recent restoration efforts, the film’s original ending has now been reinstated, allowing viewers to experience the authentic narrative as envisioned by the director.

### Festival Highlights and Audience Reception

The decision to screen *Sholay* with its original ending at IFFS has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from audiences eager to witness this piece of cinematic history.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), which is presenting the Sydney festival, commented, “To bring back the film’s original ending after all these years is to restore not just a different final scene but the full vision of its creator.”

This screening promises to be a landmark event for fans and cinephiles alike, celebrating the timeless legacy of *Sholay* in its most authentic form.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/sholay-to-screen-at-another-film-festival/story

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

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**Plea to Remove Afzal Guru’s Grave from Tihar Jail Rejected**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 24, 2025 | 02:12 PM*

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**Overview**

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of convicted terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail. The petitioners contended that maintaining the graves of these terrorists within a state-run prison was illegal and unconstitutional, urging judicial intervention to relocate the remains. They argued that such graves could encourage glorification of terrorism and lead to misuse of prison premises.

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**Judicial Stance: Decision Reserved for Competent Authorities**

The Delhi High Court observed that the matter involves sensitive decisions which were taken by the government at the time of execution. The court emphasized that reopening such issues after more than a decade is unwarranted.

It was noted that only competent authorities have the jurisdiction to decide on such matters. The court further highlighted that without specific legislation banning burials or cremations inside prison premises, judicial intervention is not justified.

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**Concerns Raised by Petitioners**

The petitioners, Vishwa Vedic Sanatan Sangh and Jitendra Singh, argued that the presence of the graves has transformed Tihar Jail into a “radical pilgrimage” site. According to them, extremist elements visit the prison to venerate these convicted terrorists, which in turn undermines national security and public order.

They asserted that this scenario sanctifies terrorism and violates the principles of secularism and the rule of law enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Additionally, they cited violations of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018.

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**Health and Security Arguments**

The plea also claimed that the burial of the bodies within prison grounds poses risks of infectious and hazardous diseases to inmates and staff.

For context, Mohammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged at Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984, for the murder of a policeman, and his body was buried on the prison premises. Mohammad Afzal Guru, a key conspirator in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack that resulted in nine deaths, was executed in February 2013 at Tihar Jail, with his body similarly buried on site.

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**Conclusion**

The Delhi High Court’s refusal to interfere leaves the graves of Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhat at Tihar Jail intact, affirming that decisions regarding their location rest with appropriate governmental authorities and legislative frameworks.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Sydney film festival to screen ‘Sholay’ with original ending

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**Sydney Film Festival to Screen ‘Sholay’ with Original Ending**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 24, 2025, 01:41 PM*

The iconic Bollywood film *Sholay*, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Jaya Bachchan, is set to be screened at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS) with its original ending. This follows a successful screening at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where audiences experienced the film as director Ramesh Sippy originally intended.

The IFFS will take place from October 9-11, promising a special cinematic experience for fans and film enthusiasts alike.

### Film Restoration: The Return of the Original Ending

The restored version of *Sholay* features the original ending, which was previously withheld due to censorship. In this ending, Sanjeev Kumar’s character, Thakur, takes justice into his own hands by killing the notorious villain Gabbar Singh.

Originally, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) rejected this ending for being too violent. As a result, the filmmakers shot an alternate conclusion where Thakur hands over Gabbar Singh to the police. Now, after extensive restoration, the film finally presents the original ending as envisioned by the director.

### Festival Highlights and Audience Reaction

The decision to screen *Sholay* with its original ending at IFFS has been met with overwhelming demand from audiences eager to see the film in its truest form.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), which is presenting the event, stated, “To bring back the film’s original ending after all these years is to restore not just a different final scene but the full vision of its creator.”

This screening is more than just a tribute to a classic film; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the artistic integrity and storytelling as originally intended.

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*Don’t miss the chance to witness this legendary film at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney from October 9-11.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/sholay-to-screen-at-another-film-festival/story

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

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**Plea to Remove Afzal Guru’s Grave from Tihar Jail Rejected by Delhi High Court**

*By Snehil Singh | September 24, 2025 | 02:12 PM*

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of convicted terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail. The petitioners contended that maintaining the graves of terrorists within a state-run facility was illegal and unconstitutional. They urged judicial intervention to relocate the remains, arguing that doing so would prevent the glorification of terrorism and curb the misuse of prison premises.

### Judicial Stance: Authorities to Decide on Sensitive Issues

The Delhi High Court observed that such matters are sensitive and were decided by the government at the time of the executions. The court emphasized that after more than a decade, these issues cannot be reopened. It noted that only competent authorities are empowered to make decisions regarding burials or cremations within prison premises. The court further stated that judicial intervention is unwarranted in the absence of specific legislation prohibiting such practices inside prisons.

### Petitioners’ Concerns: Graves as ‘Radical Pilgrimage’ Sites

The petitioners, Vishwa Vedic Sanatan Sangh and Jitendra Singh, argued that the presence of these graves has transformed Tihar Jail into a “radical pilgrimage” site. According to them, extremist elements visit the graves to venerate the convicted terrorists, which undermines national security and public order.

They claimed this situation sanctifies terrorism and violates the principles of secularism and the rule of law enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Additionally, they cited violations of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018, which govern prison premises.

### Health and Security Concerns Raised

The plea also highlighted potential health risks, asserting that burials within the prison compound pose a threat of infectious and hazardous diseases to inmates and staff.

### Background

Mohammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged at Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984, after being convicted for the murder of a policeman. His body was buried on the prison grounds.

Mohammad Afzal Guru, a key conspirator in the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament that resulted in nine deaths, was executed in February 2013 at Tihar Jail. His remains were also interred within the prison premises.

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The Delhi High Court’s decision maintains the status quo, leaving the sensitive issue of terrorist graves within Tihar Jail in the hands of the authorities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Bihar: BJP slams Congress for organising CWC meeting at Patna ahead of polls

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As Congress held its first-ever Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Patna post-independence, the event drew significant attention across the political spectrum.

However, BJP leader Amit Malviya criticized the gathering, claiming that it was attended by leaders who had “insulted Bihar.” He further stated that this move marks the “final nail in the coffin” for Tejashwi Yadav’s prospects of becoming the Chief Minister.

The statement from Malviya reflects the heightened political tensions in the region as different parties vie for influence and leadership ahead of upcoming elections.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/bihar-bjp-slams-congress-for-organising-cwc-meeting-at-patna-ahead-of-assembly-polls-23595563

Sydney film festival to screen ‘Sholay’ with original ending

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The iconic Bollywood film *Sholay*, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Jaya Bachchan, is set to be screened at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS).

What makes this screening special is that *Sholay* will be shown with its original ending, offering audiences a unique viewing experience of the classic film.

Fans and film enthusiasts alike can look forward to witnessing this legendary movie in a way that has rarely been seen before.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/sholay-to-screen-at-another-film-festival/story

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

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The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail.

The petitioners had requested that the graves be removed from the premises, citing various concerns. However, the court did not find sufficient grounds to grant the relief sought.

This decision upholds the current status of the graves within Tihar Jail, maintaining the existing arrangements. The ruling reflects the court’s stance on matters related to prison premises and the resting places within them.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Typhoon Ragasa Storms Into Southern China And Neighbouring Countries, Millions Of People Relocated; Scary Visuals Inside

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Typhoon Ragasa is wreaking havoc across parts of China and neighboring countries, earning the distinction of one of the strongest storms of the year. Currently, the super typhoon is battering southern China, having already impacted the Philippines and Taiwan.

Authorities have launched massive evacuation efforts, relocating millions of people from coastal and low-lying areas as Ragasa continues to unleash heavy rains and powerful winds. In China’s Guangdong province alone, more than a million residents have been moved to safer locations. Schools, offices, and businesses across over ten cities have been shut down as a precautionary measure.

In Shenzhen, nearly 400,000 people were evacuated following warnings about potential storm surges and flooding. The storm has also disrupted rail and air travel, causing cancellations of hundreds of flights throughout the region.

### Devastation in Taiwan and the Philippines

Before reaching China, Ragasa caused severe damage in Taiwan’s Hualien County, where flash floods triggered by torrential rains claimed the lives of at least 14 people. In the Philippines, the typhoon struck northern Luzon, resulting in 10 fatalities and forcing thousands into temporary shelters.

Dramatic footage circulating online shows towering waves crashing onto coastal promenades, uprooted trees blocking roads, and heavy winds tearing off rooftops. Emergency teams have been deployed in all affected areas, with officials warning that the upcoming hours will be critical as the storm moves further inland.

### Scary Visuals and Official Warnings

DD News shared a chilling video capturing Typhoon Ragasa pounding the coastline, accompanied by the caption:
“Super #TyphoonRagasa, the world’s most powerful tropical cyclone this year, lashed #HongKong with powerful winds and heavy rain. The city shut down, over 700 flights were canceled, and panic buying emptied supermarket shelves as people queued for hours, fearing shops would be closed for two days.”

Meteorologists have classified Ragasa as a super typhoon, with wind speeds reaching nearly 200 km/h. This has raised serious concerns about widespread damage to infrastructure, power lines, and farmland.

Officials continue to urge residents to remain indoors and follow all safety advisories as rescue operations stay on high alert.

Stay tuned for updates as Typhoon Ragasa moves through the region.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/viral/typhoon-ragasa-storms-into-southern-china-and-neighbouring-countries-millions-of-people-relocated-scary-visuals-inside

Chennai International Book Fair 2026 Aims To Become Global Literary Hub With 100 Countries Participating

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**Chennai International Book Fair 2026 Aims to Host Publishers from 100 Countries**

*Chennai:* The Chennai International Book Fair (CIBF) is gearing up for its fourth edition in January 2026 with an ambitious target of hosting publishers and literary agents from 100 countries, positioning itself as a rising global hub for literary exchange.

**About The Fair**

The fair, the youngest international book fair in Asia, has rapidly grown in stature since its inception. In 2025, it attracted participation from 64 countries, and officials say the upcoming edition is set to expand that reach significantly.

Tamil Nadu School Education Secretary B. Chandra Mohan attributed the fair’s success to direct engagement with international associations such as the African Publishers Network, Francophone nations, and Publishers Without Borders. “This proactive outreach has helped place Chennai firmly on the global publishing map,” he noted.

To bolster these efforts, a delegation from the state’s school education department will travel to Germany in October to participate in the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest publishing marketplace. The team has already scheduled more than 30 appointments with potential co-publishers to explore translating Tamil classics and modern works published by the state textbook corporation into English and other foreign languages.

Among the key highlights planned at Frankfurt is the promotion of a comparative etymological dictionary of Tamil and Indo-European languages, aimed at attracting the attention of international publishers and European government agencies.

Discussions are also underway with UNESCO officials in Paris on reviving the *UNESCO Courier* magazine in Tamil, a publication that promotes cross-cultural dialogue and is currently brought out in six global languages.

Parallel to the fair, the Tamil Nadu government has announced an ambitious translation project. Over the next three years, the *Thirukkural* will be translated into 45 additional languages, while Tamil epics such as *Silappathikaram* and *Manimegalai* will be translated into 25 languages.

In addition, 500 Tamil books are planned for translation into English over five years, opening avenues for further adaptations into other foreign languages.

At the 2025 edition, more than 1,300 memorandums of understanding were signed to facilitate translation and exchange. Building on that momentum, CIBF 2026 hopes to cement Chennai’s role as a vibrant centre for global literary and cultural collaboration.

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*(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/chennai-international-book-fair-2026-aims-to-become-global-literary-hub-with-100-countries-participating