Times of India

Chandrakant Sompura, the architect of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, received the Padma Shri, recognizing his and his family's long-standing contributions to temple architecture. His portfolio includes the renowned Akshardham Temple and the Swaminarayan Temple in London. Sompura's work on 131 temple projects continues his family's architectural legacy.

Polar Bear Pete Alonso’s demand for a $100 million contract has caused tension between his agent Scott Boras and Mets owner Steve Cohen. Alonso, unsatisfied with the Mets' $70 million offer, remains in limbo as other MLB teams hesitate to meet his price, sparking rumors of interest from the Blue Jays and Angels. Fans await the outcome.

January 26, Australia Day, sparks celebration and protest as it highlights the nation's colonial past and ongoing Indigenous injustices. Protests in cities like Sydney and Melbourne demand a date change and greater recognition of historical and present inequalities faced by Indigenous communities. The issue remains politically divisive, with growing support for change among younger generations.

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day, highlighting military strength and cultural diversity. Prime Minister Modi honored fallen soldiers and greeted Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The event featured advanced defense systems, a tri-services tableau, and a cultural performance with 5,000 artists. Nearly 10,000 special guests witnessed the parade.

Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians are stranded near the Netzarim Corridor, awaiting the chance to return to their northern Gaza homes. The blockade enforced by Israel hinges on the unresolved release of hostage Arbel Yehud, placing a strain on the fragile ceasefire agreement and exacerbating humanitarian conditions.

Virat Kohli, struggling with form, resumed training with Sanjay Bangar, his former batting coach, in Mumbai ahead of his Ranji Trophy comeback after 12 years. Kohli will play for Delhi against Railways. He scored 190 runs in five Tests in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Kohli will join Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and others in domestic cricket action.

Jannik Sinner successfully defended his Australian Open title, defeating Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-3. Sinner, the world's top-ranked player, did not face a single break point during the match, highlighting the gap between him and the second-seed Zverev. This makes Sinner the youngest player to achieve consecutive Australian Open wins since Jim Courier in the early 90s.

Tahawwur Rana's extradition to India, hailed by BJP as a diplomatic success for PM Modi, brings justice for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. The Supreme Court of the USA denied Rana's review petition, enabling his transfer to Indian authorities. Union minister Piyush Goyal and BJP members celebrated this as a win against terrorism.

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with a grand parade showcasing military strength and cultural heritage in New Delhi. Highlights included a focus on women's empowerment, an Indonesian contingent, and debut displays of the Pralay missile and SANJAY battlefield surveillance system.

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde paused his convoy in Mumbai to help an injured biker, showcasing immediate concern and action. A video of this act was posted on social media, receiving widespread praise for Shinde’s prompt and compassionate response.

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with a grand parade featuring 16 tableaux from states and Union Territories, 15 from central ministries, and organizations. Highlights included Captain Dimple Singh Bhati's salute to President Murmu, Pralay missile's debut, a tri-services tableau, an Indonesian contingent's first participation, and vibrant cultural performances showcasing India's folk and tribal traditions.

South Korean prosecutors have indicted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol for rebellion following his declaration of martial law on December 3, which caused political unrest. The National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14, and he remains detained, awaiting a Constitutional Court decision and possible imprisonment.

West Bengal's Republic Day tableau highlighted dedication to women empowerment and cultural preservation. Featuring the 'Lakshmir Bhandar' and 'Lok Prasar Prakalpa' initiatives, the tableau emphasized economic support for women and the promotion of traditional art forms.

During the 76th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, the Indian Air Force showcased an impressive air display featuring 40 aircraft and helicopters. The event included stunning formations such as Dhwaj, Rakshak, Bheem, and Amrit, highlighting the IAF's precision, coordination, and operational depth.

A three-vehicle collision occurred near Bargur in Krishnagiri district, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuring over 10 cows. The accident involved an Eicher truck that lost control and collided with a cattle truck and another goods carrier. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause.

The Bandra police await the final fingerprint report for Bangladeshi national Shariful Fakir, arrested for assaulting actor Saif Ali Khan. Preliminary reports confirm a match, and his custody has been extended until January 29 for further facial recognition tests. Misidentification rumours have been dismissed.

Tanya Sharma, a Delhi-based lawyer, experienced digital harassment after booking an Uber ride. An auto driver sent an inappropriate message, prompting her to cancel the ride and file a complaint. Despite initial dissatisfaction with Uber's response, public outcry led to the driver being banned. Sharma urges others to take such incidents seriously and raise awareness.

CERT-In has identified two critical and high-severity vulnerabilities in the Google Chrome browser that could allow remote attackers to exploit user data and systems.

President Trump is employing Department of Defense resources for mass deportations, including military planes which are significantly costlier than Department of Homeland Security flights. The Pentagon is reallocating funds for these missions, and ICE raids have begun nationwide, detaining both undocumented immigrants and US citizens, sparking controversy and concern.