GK Vault

  • Thakhek Massacre – A Painful Chapter No One Talks About

    A story that many people don’t even know

    War brings nothing but pain. It takes lives, leaves scars, and breaks humanity. One such dark chapter happened in Thakhek, a small town in Laos

    This is about the Thakhek Massacre, which happened in March 1946.

    In this incident, the French army, after taking control of Thakhek from the Pathet Lao (communist-backed fighters), reportedly killed between 1,500 to 3,000 innocent Vietnamese civilians. Most of them were unarmed people — women, men, even children. As per some local reports, many people were thrown alive into wells. Just imagine that pain. 😔

    This terrible act happened just one year after Japanese forces had executed some French engineers and civilians during World War II in 1945. That time, the French were the victims. But in 1946, they became the attackers.

    Why did this happen?

    Because in war, there are no real winners. One side always wants revenge, power, and control. But in the end, it’s always innocent people who suffer.

    🕊 Let’s Remember This

    Even though this massacre happened many years ago, we must not forget it. We should talk about these hidden parts of history, so they don’t repeat again.

    Let this be a reminder that war is not glory – it is pain. And real strength lies in peace.

  • The Honour Killing of Kavin Selvaganesh

    Kavin Selvaganesh, a 27-year-old Dalit software engineer from Thoothukudi, was in a long-term relationship with Subashini, a Siddha doctor from Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu


    Despite love since school—and facing caste-based threats—the couple stayed in touch long after Kavin moved to Chennai for work

    On July 27, as Kavin visited the Siddha clinic to accompany his ailing grandfather, he was lured away by Surjith, the woman’s brother and son of police inspectors.

    Surjith suddenly attacked him with a sickle and chilli powder, hacking him to death about 200 meters from the hospital—while Kavin tried to escape

    The murder sparked protests: Kavin’s family refused to accept his body until action was taken. The brother surrendered; Surjith’s parents, both serving sub-inspectors, were suspended and named in the FIR too

    The case was transferred to Crime Branch‑CID. Activists and leaders are renewing demands for stronger laws against caste‑based honour violence

  • Tirupati

    More Than Just a Temple

    Tirupati is not just a tourist place. It is a spiritual home for millions. People believe that every wish they ask here will come true. The temple is on Tirumala hills, and people walk, travel, or climb the 3550 steps with full devotion. It is one of the busiest temples in the world and still feels peaceful when you stand before Lord Venkateswara.

    How Old is Tirupati?

    Tirupati’s history is older than we can imagine. In ancient books like the Varaha Purana and Bhavishyottara Purana, Tirumala is clearly mentioned. Historians believe the temple is more than 2000 years old. Even in stone carvings, we can see proof from 5th century. So, it’s not just belief—it’s real history with roots in time.

    The Story Behind the God

    Many years ago, Lord Vishnu took the form of Venkateswara to help people during the age of Kali Yuga. He came down and stayed on the 7 hills of Tirumala. One day, he married Goddess Padmavati, daughter of King Akasa Raja. That marriage is still remembered by devotees during Brahmotsavam. His idol in the temple looks real and full of divine energy.

    How the Temple Grew So Big

    From small beginnings, the Tirupati temple became huge due to support from kings. The Chola kings first supported it, later the Pallavas, and finally the great Vijayanagara kings made it grand with golden gopurams and beautiful sculptures. Krishnadevaraya, the famous king, donated gold and built parts of the temple. You can still see his name written inside!

    Who Manages Tirupati Temple?

    The TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) was started in 1932 to manage everything—from darshan to donations. They make sure everything runs smoothly. Every rupee given by devotees is used carefully. TTD also runs free food halls, hospitals, colleges, and dharmashalas. They print calendars, books, and even maintain goshalas (cow shelters).

    Not Just a Temple, It’s an Emotion

    From small beginnings, the Tirupati temple became huge due to support from kings. The Chola kings first supported it, later the Pallavas, and finally the great Vijayanagara kings made it grand with golden gopurams and beautiful sculptures. Krishnadevaraya, the famous king, donated gold and built parts of the temple. You can still see his name written inside!

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    Selvakrishnan Gurukarthik