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The former <keyword id="19935584" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="RSS-chief" source="keywords">RSS chief</keyword>, <keyword id="23419565" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Subhash-Velingkar" source="keywords">Subhash Velingkar</keyword>, recently stirred significant controversy by demanding a <keyword id="20615498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="DNA-test" source="keywords">DNA test</keyword> on the relics of <keyword id="23459102" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="St-Francis-Xavier" source="keywords">St. Francis Xavier</keyword>. Velingkar claims that the test would confirm the authenticity of the remains, but his statement has triggered protests and condemnation from Goa’s <keyword id="19935795" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Catholic-community" source="keywords">Catholic community</keyword>, who view it as a direct affront to their faith. This article will explore the significance of St. Francis Xavier in Goa, examine the implications of a DNA test, and review the political and social reactions to Velingkar's statement. <h2>St. Francis Xavier in Goa</h2>St. Francis Xavier, one of the most venerated Catholic saints in the world, arrived in Goa in 1542 as a Jesuit missionary. He played a crucial role in establishing Christianity in Goa and spreading it across Asia. Known for his compassion and selfless dedication, he is affectionately referred to by Goans as “Goencho Saib” (Protector of Goa). <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112672114" title="“Please do not photograph our homes!” plead Goa’s homeowners" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>His relics, preserved at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, draw millions of pilgrims from across the globe. The relics are especially significant because, every ten years, they are publicly displayed during the Exposition, a major religious event that unites the community in faith and reverence. <h2>What is a DNA test, and what could it prove?</h2>A DNA test involves analysing genetic material to establish relationships, origins, or identity. DNA testing on human remains can reveal biological data such as ancestry, possible familial connections, or genetic characteristics. In this case, Velingkar’s call for a DNA test is ostensibly aimed at verifying whether the relics truly belong to St. Francis Xavier. However, such a test would be challenging because it would require preserved genetic material, which might not be feasible — although doable under the right conditions — after nearly 450 years. The main issue is that without direct descendants or known relatives, a DNA test would have limited capacity to “prove” the relics' authenticity definitively. Many Goans argue that such a test is unnecessary, given the historical and religious context of the relics and the deep spiritual significance they hold. <h2>Protests across Goa and political fallout</h2>Velingkar’s remarks have provoked a backlash, with protests erupting across Goa. Demonstrators in Margao and Canacona have voiced their anger, demanding Velingkar be arrested for offending their <keyword id="19978801" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religious-sentiments" source="keywords">religious sentiments</keyword>. At these gatherings, local leaders have condemned his statements, arguing that he is attempting to provoke divisions in Goa’s harmonious society. Some have also called for Velingkar to undergo psychological evaluation, questioning his motives and the wisdom of his demand for a DNA test. While Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has assured the public that legal action will be taken, some community members remain sceptical, perceiving a lack of urgency. The Congress party has criticised the BJP-led state government, accusing it of neglecting the issue to avoid alienating potential voter bases. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111809476" title="Why is a music festival causing controversy in Goa?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The controversy has also cast a spotlight on the BJP’s stance toward the Catholic community, particularly considering how the state was mum for an exceedingly long time on their intentions to invite Pope Francis to the upcoming Exposition. This hesitation and the ongoing controversy has compounded frustrations among Goans, leading to questions about the government’s respect for religious diversity in the state. Goa’s history is marked by religious tolerance and a unique blending of cultures. The Catholic Church has played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and fostering unity across different communities in the state. By calling for a DNA test on the relics of a beloved saint, many argue that Velingkar risks jeopardising this delicate balance. Religious leaders have warned against divisive rhetoric, underscoring that Goa’s strength lies in its ability to maintain harmony among its diverse population.

Goa protests: Why is an ex-RSS chief demanding to DNA test the body of a 450-year-old sacred saint?

In response to requests from multiple political parties, the <keyword id="19895782" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="election-commission" source="keywords">Election Commission</keyword> (EC) has decided to postpone upcoming by-elections in <keyword id="19894922" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="uttar-pradesh" source="keywords">Uttar Pradesh</keyword>, Kerala, and Punjab. Originally scheduled for November 13, the polls will now take place on November 20. This rescheduling aims to accommodate local festivities and boost voter turnout. The EC’s decision follows appeals from parties like the <keyword id="19895371" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="congress" source="keywords">Congress</keyword> (INC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and <keyword id="19984283" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rashtriya-lok-dal" source="keywords">Rashtriya Lok Dal</keyword> (RLD), which expressed concerns over potential low turnout due to regional celebrations during the original polling date. The Congress highlighted that in Kerala's 56-Palakkad Assembly Constituency, many residents will participate in the Kalpathi Ratholsavam festival, a major event set to run from November 13 to 15. Similarly, representatives from the BJP, BSP, and RLD raised concerns in Uttar Pradesh, where people begin travelling several days in advance for <keyword id="22124352" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kartik-purnima" source="keywords">Kartik Purnima</keyword>, an important festival observed in the state. In Punjab, the Congress pointed out that celebrations for the 555th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji are scheduled for November 15, with religious observances starting on November 13. These festivals are expected to draw significant portions of the electorate, particularly in rural areas. The EC has previously demonstrated flexibility to prioritise voter participation by adjusting poll dates to avoid clashes with religious or cultural events. In recent years, polling dates were modified for various elections, including the <keyword id="23790298" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="punjab-state-elections" source="keywords">Punjab State Elections</keyword> 2022 during the Shri Guru Ravidas Jayanti, and the <keyword id="23790297" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="uttar-pradesh-assembly-elections" source="keywords">Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections</keyword> 2012 for <keyword id="23790296" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="barawafat" source="keywords">Barawafat</keyword>. Similar changes were made in Manipur, Mizoram, and Rajasthan to respect community schedules and increase voter convenience. With this adjustment, one assembly constituency in Kerala, four in Punjab, and nine in Uttar Pradesh will now hold their by-polls on November 20, while the dates for vote counting and final poll completion remain set for November 23 and 25, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

By-polls in Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Punjab rescheduled due to clash with religious festivals — check new dates here

<keyword id="20073647" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Assam-Legislative-Assembly" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Assam Legislative Assembly" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Assam Legislative Assembly">Assam Legislative Assembly</keyword> today officially amended the rule providing for two-hour break <keyword id="22976740" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Jumma-break" source="keywords">Jumma break</keyword>, historically observed to facilitate <keyword id="22977235" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Muslim-legislators" source="keywords">Muslim legislators</keyword> to offer Fridays prayers. Assam Chief Minister <keyword id="19952756" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Himanta-Biswa-Sarma" source="keywords">Himanta Biswa Sarma</keyword> has expressed his gratitude towards the Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary for the decision that he said has been taken to prioritise the productivity of the assembly. "By doing away with the 2-hour Jumma break, <keyword id="20697861" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Assam-Assembly" source="keywords">Assam Assembly</keyword> has prioritised productivity and shed another vestige of colonial baggage. This practice was introduced by Muslim League's Syed Saadulla in 1937. My gratitude to Speaker Biswajit Daimary and our legislators for this historical decision," Sarma said in a post on X. According to the previous rule, the sitting of the Assembly on Friday used to be adjourned at 11 am to facilitate Muslim members to go for <keyword id="22977239" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="namaaz" source="keywords">namaaz</keyword>, but, as per the new rule, the Assembly will conduct its proceedings without any adjournment for religious purposes. As per the amended rule, Assam assembly will commence its proceedings at 9:30am every day, including Fridays. The order stated that the amendment was done to scrap the <keyword id="22977237" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="colonial-practice" source="keywords">colonial practice</keyword> which aimed at dividing the society on a <keyword id="22977238" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religious-basis" source="keywords">religious basis</keyword>. As per the order, the proposal was first presented to the Rules Committee headed by Biswajit Daimary, Speaker of the Assembly, which unanimously agreed to drop this rule. The official order reads, "Since the creation of the Assam Legislative Assembly, the sitting of the Assembly on Friday used to be adjourned at 11 am to facilitate Muslim members to go for namaaz. The Assembly used to resume its proceedings in the post-lunch session after the Muslim members had come back from the namaaz. On all other days, the House used to conduct its proceedings without any such adjournment for religious purposes." It further read, "Biswajit Daimary, Hon'ble Speaker took note of this matter and in view of the secular nature of the Constitution, proposed that the Assam Legislative Assembly must conduct its proceedings on Fridays like any other day without any adjournment to facilitate Muslim members to go for namaaz. "Accordingly, the proposal to do away with this rule in the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly was placed before the Rules Committee headed by the Hon'ble Speaker. The Rules Committee unanimously agreed to drop this rule. Accordingly, today, the House adopted a motion to amend this rule so as to provide for sitting of the House for conduct of its proceedings on Fridays like any other day. So, today history has been created by doing away with this colonial practice which was aimed at dividing the society on religious basis."

Assam Assembly ends practice of two-hour Jumma break, running since 1937

The <keyword id="20507886" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Uttar-Pradesh-Assembly" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Uttar Pradesh Assembly" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Uttar Pradesh Assembly">Uttar Pradesh Assembly</keyword> on Tuesday passed the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) <keyword id="19896367" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bill" source="keywords">Bill</keyword>, 2024 that provides for a maximum <keyword id="20028410" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="punishment" source="keywords">punishment</keyword> of life imprisonment, making the law stricter in cases of fraudulent or forced conversion. Earlier the maximum punishment provided for those found guilty of marrying a woman by deceiving her and converting her religion was 10 years with a fine of Rs 50,000. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna introduced the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the House on Monday. It has been proposed that if a person threatens, attacks, marries or promises to marry or conspires for it, or trafficks a woman, minor or anyone with the intention of conversion, then his crime will be placed in the most serious category. In such cases, there is a provision of 20 years imprisonment or life imprisonment. Under the amended provisions, now any person can register an FIR in conversion cases. Earlier, to give information or complaint about the case, the presence of the victim, her parents, or siblings was necessary. It has been proposed that such cases will not be heard by any court below the Sessions Court and along with this, the bail plea will not be considered without giving an opportunity to the public prosecutor. Also, all the crimes under the amended Act have been made non-bailable. Chief Minister <keyword id="19898780" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Yogi-Adityanath" source="keywords">Yogi Adityanath</keyword> had taken this initiative with the intention of curbing '<keyword id="20101303" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="love-jihad" source="keywords">love jihad</keyword>', a term coined by some <keyword id="6368818" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hindu" source="Orion">Hindu</keyword> outfits for alleged forcible conversion. An ordinance was issued for curbing forced conversion in November 2020 and later, after the bill was passed by both the houses of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature, the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act-2021 came into force.

UP Assembly passes amendment bill enhancing punishment under Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act

For as long as we can remember, <keyword id="19935846" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="science" source="keywords">science</keyword> and <keyword id="19969367" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="religion" source="keywords">religion</keyword> have been at a clash on what constitutes the truth. While centuries of scientific pursuit have quelled the debate on some matters, many other unsolved topics — such as the creation of our universe — still remain a hotbed of conflict among the two groups. Oftentimes, science is misrepresented or outright rejected in service of deeply ingrained convictions. It's a scene all too common: the outspoken aunt in family WhatsApp groups championing religious doctrine over scientific consensus, or the insidious infiltration of <keyword id="4874838" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="political-propaganda" source="Orion">political propaganda</keyword> casting doubt on established facts. But what factors truly drive this rejection? A groundbreaking study has delved into this intricate web of religion, tolerance, and science denial with the following hypothesis: individuals who are intolerant of other religions are more inclined to reject scientific tenets. This is based on the idea that such groups may view science as a competing belief system rather than a complementary avenue of understanding. In order to measure “religious tolerance”, the research settled on using local <keyword id="21506716" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religious-diversity" source="keywords">religious diversity</keyword> as an indicator. The rationale being that tolerance thrives in areas with religious diversity, which fosters an environment where differing viewpoints are embraced rather than shunned. They then looked at how these variously religiously diverse groups engaged with science, as evidenced through the efforts of seven studies. One such study surveyed Hindus in India, Muslims in Pakistan and Christians in the United States. It found that groups that espoused <keyword id="21389640" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="intolerance" source="keywords">intolerance</keyword> towards other religions often denied science as well. Not only did these intolerant participants disagree with science when it conflicted with their own religion, but they also expressed a general disapproval of scientific recommendations, such as in the administration of <keyword id="20849375" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="COVID-vaccinations" source="keywords">COVID vaccinations</keyword>. In fact, another compelling study found that during the tumultuous days of the early COVID-19 pandemic, religious intolerant counties in the United States socially distanced less, even after accounting for the percentage of religious adherents within each county. These groups were also less likely to get the COVID vaccine, highlighting the complicated relationship between <keyword id="21506718" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religious-tolerance" source="keywords">religious tolerance</keyword> and public health compliance. On the contrary, the study found that countries boasting higher religious diversity often emerged as champions of scientific literacy. Scores on the Program for International Student Assessment — a test that measures science and math performance among 15-year-olds — soared in nations where religious plurality thrived. Furthermore, the World Values Survey showed that areas with less religious diversity were more likely to assert that religion is a better guide to uncovering the truth than science. In a world divided by strong opinions and closed-off groups that reinforce their own beliefs, this study urges us to welcome diversity. By embracing different perspectives, we can appreciate faith and reason, moving beyond any potential limitations imposed by politics and religion. The findings of this research have been published in PNAS Nexus and can be accessed <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae144" data-type="tilCustomLink">here</a>.

People intolerant of other religions are more likely to reject science, study asserts

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Josh Hawley is writing his fourth book — while running for a second term in the Senate.</li><li>It's called "The Awakenings: The Religious Revivals that Made America—and Why We Need Another One."</li></ul>Sen. Josh Hawley is running for reelection this year. He also happens to be in the middle of writing a new book.The Missouri Republican is working on a new book entitled "The Awakenings: The Religious Revivals that Made America — and Why We Need Another One," his publisher confirmed to Business Insider on Tuesday.A spokesperson for Hawley did not immediately respond to a request for comment.Hawley signed the agreement with Regnery Publishing in October 2023 and is set to deliver a manuscript no later than January 2025.The conservative book imprint has published Hawley's previous two books, including "Manhood: The Masculine Virtues America Needs" in 2023 and "The Tyranny of Big Tech" in 2021.The latter book was previously set to be published by Simon and Schuster, but the publisher <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/simon-and-schuster-cancels-sen-josh-hawleys-book-deal-2021-1">cancelled the deal</a> after Hawley led the objection to Pennsylvania's electoral college results in 2020.The Missouri senator also wrote a book about President Theodore Roosevelt in 2008, while working as a clerk for Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.Hawley, who has positioned himself as a future presidential contender while <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/vance-hawley-republicans-uaw-strikes-shawn-fain-labor-2023-9">pushing the GOP in a more populist direction</a>, has long been an advocate for Christianity in the United States. His previous book, "Manhood," drew heavily on Biblical references.In February, Hawley published an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.firstthings.com/article/2024/02/our-christian-nation">essay</a> in the religious journal "First Things" arguing that the United States is a fundamentally Christian nation."America as we know it cannot survive without biblical Christianity," Hawley wrote at the time. "The rights we cherish, the freedoms we enjoy, the ideals we love together — all are rooted in and sustained by the tradition of the Bible. Christianity is the electric current of our national life."The Missouri senator's annual <a target="_blank" href="https://s3.documentcloud.org/documents/24676254/hawley-2023-fd.pdf">financial disclosure</a>, filed last week, indicated that he made $127,500 from book royalties in 2023. It is unclear whether that sum includes an advance for Hawley's forthcoming book or also includes composed of royalties from the senator's previous books. In 2021, Hawley <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/josh-hawley-financial-disclosure-shows-467k-book-royalties-2022-5">made $467,000</a> in book royalties.Books have long been a way for senators — particularly those with high profiles — to make extra money on the side. In 2022, six senators <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/these-senators-more-money-books-salaries-2022-2023-8">made more than their $174,000 salaries</a> via book advances and royalties.That included Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia, who made the largest sum of any senator in 2022 — $655,000 — while also embarking on a book tour months ahead of his high-stakes reelection race.

Sen. Josh Hawley is writing a new book calling for a religious revival in America

<keyword id="19895282" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mumbai" source="keywords">Mumbai</keyword>, often referred to as the City of Dreams, is not just a bustling metropolis of commerce and entertainment but also a melting pot of diverse cultures and religions. Amidst its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, Mumbai harbors an array of ancient temples, serene mosques, tranquil churches, and revered shrines that attract devotees and visitors alike. If you're seeking a spiritual journey amidst the vibrant chaos of Mumbai, here are some famous <keyword id="12095907" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="temples-in-Mumbai" source="Orion">temples in Mumbai</keyword> you must explore: 1. Siddhivinayak Temple: Located in Prabhadevi, the Siddhivinayak Temple is one of Mumbai's most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Built-in the 18th century, the temple's inner sanctum houses a small black stone idol of Lord Ganesha, attracting millions of devotees every year, especially on auspicious occasions like Ganesh Chaturthi. 2. Haji Ali Dargah: Situated on a tiny islet off the coast of Worli, the Haji Ali Dargah is a prominent Islamic shrine and a symbol of Mumbai's syncretic culture. Dedicated to the 14th-century Sufi saint Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, the dargah is visited by people of all faiths who come to seek blessings and witness the mesmerizing Qawwali performances held here. 3. Mahalakshmi Temple: Nestled in the heart of Mumbai, the Mahalakshmi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Believed to be one of the <keyword id="20573316" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="oldest-temples-in-Mumbai" source="Orion">oldest temples in Mumbai</keyword>, it attracts devotees seeking blessings for financial stability and success. The temple's architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, adds to its spiritual allure. 4. Mount Mary Church: Perched atop a hillock in Bandra, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, commonly known as Mount Mary Church, is a revered Catholic shrine. Dating back to the 16th century, the church is renowned for its annual Bandra Fair, where people from all walks of life gather to seek the blessings of Mother Mary and partake in the festive celebrations. 5. ISKCON Temple: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Temple in Mumbai, located in Juhu, is a hub of spiritual activities and devotional practices. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple complex houses beautifully crafted idols of Lord Krishna and Radha, attracting devotees and tourists seeking solace and enlightenment. 6. Mumba Devi Temple: Paying homage to the city's namesake deity, the Mumba Devi Temple is one of <keyword id="20573317" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mumbais-oldest-and-most-revered-temples" source="Orion">Mumbai's oldest and most revered temples</keyword>. Situated in the bustling Bhuleshwar area, the temple is dedicated to Mumba Devi, the patron goddess of Mumbai, and is steeped in mythological and historical significance. 7. Global Vipassana Pagoda: Located in Gorai, the Global Vipassana Pagoda is a symbol of peace and tranquility. This majestic structure, adorned with intricate architecture and surrounded by lush greenery, serves as a meditation center and houses the world's largest stone dome without any supporting pillars, making it a marvel of modern architecture and spirituality. 8. Babulnath Temple: Perched atop a hill in South Mumbai, the Babulnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Mumbai. The temple's serene ambiance and panoramic views of the city make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists seeking spiritual solace and panoramic views of the city. Visiting these <keyword id="20573315" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="famous-religious-places-in-Mumbai" source="Orion">famous religious places in Mumbai</keyword> not only offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural tapestry but also provides a soul-stirring experience that transcends the mundane. Whether you're a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, Mumbai's spiritual landmarks promise to leave an indelible impression on your heart and soul. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt.

Top must visit temples in Mumbai: unveiling the city's sacred side

<ul class="summary-list"><li>A new Pew Research Center report contained new insights into nonreligious Americans.</li><li>The so-called "nones" have been rising for decades and now make up nearly 30% of the country.</li></ul>The rise of the "nones" — Americans who report having no religious affiliation — has been happening for decades, sparking questions and concerns about what the decline in religiosity could mean for the country.A detailed report from the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2024/01/24/religious-nones-in-america-who-they-are-and-what-they-believe/">Pew Research Center</a> released Wednesday sheds some new light on who these people actually are — and undermines some perceptions about all of them being anti-religion or anti-God.In 2023, Pew found 28% of Americans fell into the nones category, which includes people who, when asked about their religion, say they are atheists, agnostics, or "nothing in particular." That's up from 16% in 2007 and 5% in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2022/09/13/modeling-the-future-of-religion-in-america/pf_2022-09-13_religious-projections_01-01/">1972</a>.The majority of nones, 63%, are "nothing in particular," while 20% identified as agnostic and 17% were atheist. Nones tend to be younger than the religiously affiliated, and they are more likely to identify as liberal. They include nearly equal numbers of men and women, and the racial breakdown is similar to that of religious Americans. However, atheists and agnostics are more likely to be white men.Though they do not identify with a religion, most nones say they believe in God or another higher power — just not the God that is described in the Bible, according to Pew. Half say spirituality is important to them or that they identify as spiritual.When asked about specific reasons they are nonreligious, 60% of nones emphasized their questioning of many religious teachings, while 47% cited not liking religious organizations. Around 44% also said they lacked the need or time for religion.But not all nones express hostility toward religion. While 43% said religion causes more harm than good, 41% said it causes equal amounts of harm and good. While 80% agreed with the statement "religion causes division and intolerance," 58% said religion "helps society by giving people meaning and purpose in their lives.""Some 'nones' have a very negative view of religion, but 'nones' on the whole express mixed views rather than outright hostility," the report said.The report also found that, in general, nones were somewhat less civically and politically engaged than religious people. However, the difference fell away for atheists and agnostics specifically, who were equally and, in some cases, more likely to be civically engaged."It's often just the 'nothing in particular' group that stands out for having relatively low levels of civic behavior, such as voting and volunteering," the report said.However, compared to the nearly 60% of religious people who don't regularly attend church, nones were about equally as likely to have volunteered in the past year.Pew researchers noted that the number of nones fell 3 percentage points last year from 31% in 2022. However, they said it was too soon to tell if that meant the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/24/has-the-rise-of-religious-nones-come-to-an-end-in-the-us/">rise in the nones</a> was finally plateauing after decades of growth.Pew said most of the data used for the report came from a survey it conducted in July and August among 11,201 respondents who were part of its American Trends Panel, an online survey panel recruited nationally with random sampling. Pew conducted interviews with 3,317 respondents who were classified as religious nones.

Meet the 'nones': More Americans are religiously unaffiliated. Who are they? 

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Netflix took down an Indian film after receiving backlash from right-wing Hindu groups.</li><li>The film depicted a Brahmin woman cooking and eating meat and suggested a Hindu deity ate meat.</li></ul>Netflix pulled an Indian film from its platform just days after it began streaming after backlash from right-wing Hindu groups, reports say."Annapoorani: the Goddess of Food," a film made in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, follows a young woman from the Brahmin caste as she aspires to become one of India's best chefs. It was released in theaters in December and on Netflix later the same month.As part of her journey, the young woman cooks and eats meat, defying the wishes of her family and the traditions of the Brahmin caste, which <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/r-friction-over-indias-beef-trade-heats-up-after-attacks-2015-2">historically practices vegetarianism</a>.The Vishwa Hindu Parishad, a hardline right-wing Hindu group with ties to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/r-indias-modi-seeks-humble-tolerant-new-image-after-poll-rout-2015-2">Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party</a>, accused the film of being "intentionally released to hurt Hindu sentiments" and promoting "love jihad," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2024/01/11/netflix-removes-nayanthara-annapoorani-right-wing-groups-allege-movie-promote-love-jihad.html">according to</a> a complaint it filed to Mumbai's police. The phrase <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/india-love-jihad-law-results-multiple-arrests-of-muslim-men-2020-12">"love jihad"</a> refers to an Islamaphobic conspiracy theory purporting that Muslim men are seducing Hindu women to convert them to Islam.VHP also condemned the film for implying that the major Hindu deity Lord Rama ate meat while in exile. The group protested outside Netflix offices on Wednesday.Netflix removed the film from international streaming following the controversy, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/nayantharas-annapoorani-removed-from-netflix-after-film-hurts-religious-sentiments-2487296-2024-01-11">India Today reported</a>. The studio behind the film, Zee Studios, issued a statement apologizing "for the inconvenience caused and hurt caused to the sentiments of the respective communities," The Guardian <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/jan/12/netflix-pulls-indian-film-annapoorani-the-goddess-of-food-after-backlash-from-rightwing-hindu-groups">reported</a>.<h2>'Fanaticism won, creativity lost'</h2>It's not the first time Netflix and other streaming platforms have faced pressure from religious Hindu groups.In 2020, Netflix faced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/23/media/a-suitable-boy-netflix-india-intl-hnk/index.html">boycotts</a> in India after an adaptation of the book "A Suitable Boy" contained a kissing scene between a Muslim man and a Hindu woman, drawing accusations of promoting "love jihad" from some Hindu viewers. And, in 2021, the cast and crew of an Amazon Prime political drama, "Tandav," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2021/3/2/amazon-apologises-to-indian-viewers-over-tandav-controversy">apologized</a> after hardline Hindu groups accused it of mocking Hindu gods.Netflix has also pulled other titles from its platform after receiving backlash. The streaming giant <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/netflix-hasan-miinhajs-patriot-act-episode-saudi-arabia-khashoggi-2019-1">took down an episode of Hasan Minhaj's "Patriot Act" in Saudi Arabia</a> after it received a legal complaint from the kingdom in 2019. In 2020, a judge in Brazil <a target="_blank" href="https://news.sky.com/story/netflix-ordered-to-pull-film-depicting-jesus-as-a-gay-man-11904267">ordered</a> Netflix to take down a short film depicting Jesus as a gay man.Some in the film industry have criticized Netflix's decision to pull "Annapoorani" from its platform."Fanaticism won, creativity lost. Shame on @NetflixIndia for giving in to majoritarian bullying," actor Siddharth <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/DearthOfSid/status/1745364350276374937">wrote</a> on X."A dangerous precedent being set. Censoring left, right, and 'center' until we won't be allowed to breathe," actor Pavarthy Thiruvothu posted on an Instagram story.Netflix did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

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