Stories about Religion from October, 2024
The fascinating ghosts and monsters of Jamaica's folklore
Jamaicans don’t really “get” Halloween, but the island's folklore is replete with stories of “duppies” – ghosts or spirits – and monsters, many of them with roots in African retentions.
A recovery center in Nigeria takes a musical approach to combating drug addiction
Some studies suggest that religion and spiritual faith can help in preventing and recovering from substance abuse, largely because of the social support and a strong community that can emerge.
Miya Muslims of Assam, India, face eviction, threats, and oppression
The right-wing government in the Indian state of Assam, led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, has intensified its targeting of Bengali Muslims, also known as Miyas.
Reporting from a psychiatric ward housing Russian soldiers who fought Ukrainians
Soldiers live for months in the psychiatric ward. None of the patients the journalist spoke to wanted to return to the war, saying they'd rather go to prison or die.
Proposed mandatory halal certification for restaurants leads to criticism and a police probe in Malaysia
"The government must create a safe space for diverse perspectives to be voiced and debated without fear of retaliation. Investigating legislators for raising valid concerns undermines governance and public participation."
Inside the wardrobe: Women’s clothing increasingly policed in Tajikistan
Now, in Tajikistan women can be fined between USD 750–6,000 for wearing, selling or distributing foreign clothing which is perceived as being “inconsistent with national culture and traditions.”
Photo essay: The spirit of Navratri comes alive at Chittaranjan Park, Delhi
In this photo essay, photojournalist Shivansh Srivastava captures artisans as they breathe life into sacred clay to craft idols for Navratri, one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar.
