Stories about Religion from November, 2017
#DemocracyDefeated: How Indian Right-Wing Groups Stalled A Bollywood Period Drama
Scandal surrounding "Padmavati" film causes Indian BJP leader to call for the lead actor's beheading and draws attention to larger issues of freedom of expression in film.
What's in a Scarf? A Robot Restaurant in Bangladesh Serves up Controversy
"I was not surprised to see that the robot had to wear a scarf. Isn't that normal here?
13 Things Banned (or Strongly Discouraged) in Tajikistan
Tajikistan's people are renowned for hospitality, but their government isn't. Some locals joke the only ban left is a ban on banning things.
Social Media Rumors Escalate Buddhist-Muslim Violence in Sri Lanka
"Sri Lankans tend to digest media uncritically and unquestioningly. This will have to change in order to stop misinformation from spreading – and this can be done through spreading awareness."
Barbie Hijab Comment Highlights Why Some Russian Activists Don’t Support Presidential Hopeful Navalny
"Congratulations, Alexey! With one tweet you’ve written off all of your potential Muslim voters. You apparently don’t want to become president."
The Winner Is: Same Sex Marriage Equality in Australia
"First bloody vote result in years that made me feel like reasonable, kind, compassionate people are still the clear majority."
To Divinity and Back: Nepal’s Living Goddess Returns to Normal Life After Nine-Year Stint as ‘Kumari’
The sudden transformation of a little girl into a revered goddess comes at a price. She must remain in isolation and is expected to stay calm at all times.
What Happens when Montenegro Citizens Return Home After Fighting in Foreign Wars?
The documentary "The Road of No Return?" raises the issue of Montenegro and Balkan citizens who participate in foreign wars in Syria and in Ukraine and then return home.
Fire Balloon Competition in Myanmar's Taunggyi Celebrates ‘Festival of Lights’
Take a look at photos of the spectacular -- and sometimes dangerous -- tradition.