What September 2025 Brought: Prices, Festivals, and New Rules

September wasn’t just another month on the calendar – it packed a punch of headlines that affect your wallet, your travel plans, and even your spiritual calendar. Below we break down the four big stories that made it to the front page and explain why they matter to you right now.

1. A Rare Astrological Yoga on Durga Ashtami

On September 30, Durga Ashtami fell in Ujjain, and astrologers flagged a rare yoga that they say can turn wishes into reality. The alignment, known locally as Mahagauri yoga, is believed to boost prosperity and grant success to those who perform the traditional rituals. If you’re planning a puja or simply want to tap into the positive vibes, the key advice from experts is to chant the Durga mantra at sunrise and offer fresh flowers at the temple. Many devotees reported feeling an extra surge of confidence after the ceremony, so it might be worth trying even if you’re not a regular worshipper.

2. iPhone 17 Pro Price Hike – $100 More Because of Trade Tensions

Apple’s latest flagship, the iPhone 17 Pro, now starts at $1,100 in the U.S., a $100 jump linked to the ongoing US‑China trade war. The company says new tariffs on Chinese‑made components forced the price bump, while President Trump’s push to move production stateside adds extra costs. Apple is also pledging a massive domestic investment, but that won’t lower the sticker price any time soon. If you were waiting for a upgrade, weigh the new camera and AI features against the higher cost – or consider last year’s model, which still offers solid performance at a lower price.

3. Karnataka Slaps a Rs 200 Cap on Movie Tickets

Starting September 12, Karnataka’s government limited cinema tickets to Rs 200 before taxes across the state. The rule applies to all languages and formats, though there’s still debate over whether premium screens and multiplexes fall under the cap. Producers argue the ceiling could hurt revenue, while movie lovers welcome the affordable entry. If you plan a weekend film outing, expect ticket counters to display the new price, but keep an eye out for extra charges like premium seat fees that may still apply.

4. Car Prices Plunge After GST 2.0 Changes

The 56th GST Council meeting on September 3 introduced GST 2.0, prompting major automakers to slash prices. Mahindra, Tata, Hyundai, and Toyota each announced cuts ranging from Rs 1.56 lakh to Rs 3.49 lakh on popular models. Dealers say the discounts are already live, so if you’re in the market for a new car, now’s a solid time to negotiate. The savings largely come from reduced tax rates, which means the full benefit passes to the buyer rather than being absorbed by the manufacturer.

All four stories share a common thread: they directly impact daily decisions, whether you’re budgeting for a gadget, planning a movie night, buying a car, or looking for spiritual solace. Keep an eye on how these developments evolve – a policy shift today could mean a different price or a new opportunity tomorrow.

Got questions about any of these topics? Drop a comment below or join our community forum. We’ll dive deeper, share tips, and help you make the most of the changes happening this September.