Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirtha Kshetra treasurer Govind Dev Giri Maharaj urged for peaceful resolution over Gyanvapi and Krishna Janmabhoomi temples. Speaking in Pune, he emphasized prioritizing future over past, urging Muslim side's cooperation. His appeal follows Allahabad High Court's denial of stay on Varanasi Court's order allowing Hindu prayers at Gyanvapi mosque's cellar. The court granted time for the mosque's plea amendment until February 6. Giri Maharaj's statement underscores a call for harmony amid legal proceedings. Meanwhile, Varanasi district court allowed Hindu prayers in Gyanvapi's cellar, sparking legal debate over order challenges and temple trust authority.

The US launches more strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, targeting land-attack cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles. These strikes follow joint US-UK operations against the Iran-backed group. National security adviser Jake Sullivan hints at further action against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria. Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarks on a Middle East trip focused on brokering a deal between Israel and Hamas. Meanwhile, Houthi officials vow retaliation, stating the attacks won't deter their support for Palestinians. The US warns its strikes are just the beginning of its response to Iran. President Biden pledges additional measures against IRGC-affiliated targets.

A sparkling double ton by Yashasvi Jaiswal (209) in the first innings and a commanding century from Shubman Gill (104) in the second, helped set up a dominant 106-run victory for India in the second Test against England at Vizag. Chasing 332 in the second innings, the visitors crumbled under pressure with only Zak Crawley's 73 providing resistance. Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin shared six wickets (three each) as the hosts bundled out the visitors for 292 chasing 332. Jaiswal's superb knock laid the platform for India's first innings total while Bumrah and Ashwin capped off the match with a stellar bowling display. The comprehensive win marked a superb comeback for India after the opening Test defeat to level the series at 1-1. [Photo: BCCI X handle]  

India emerged victorious at the 66th annual Grammy Awards, securing three prestigious wins. The collaborative effort, "Shakti," featuring renowned artists John McLaughlin, Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, V. Selvaganesh, and Ganesh Rajagopalan, clinched the Grammy for Best Global Music Album with their work, "The Moment." Additionally, Rakesh Chaurasia seized two awards for Global Music Performance and Contemporary Instrumental Album. Amid India's success, international stars Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift also basked in glory with significant wins. Cyrus' heartfelt rendition "Flowers" earned her recognition, while Swift's album "Midnights" claimed the Album of the Year honor, solidifying a night of diverse triumphs at the Grammys.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu declared during a parliamentary address, "We will not allow any country to interfere with or undermine our sovereignty," as he announced the withdrawal of Indian troops by May 10. The move sparked criticism, with opposition parties boycotting the speech and considering impeachment. Muizzu's anti-India stance contrasts with historical ties, emphasizing reduced Indian influence. Opposition leaders urge Muizzu to apologize to India, emphasizing the importance of stable regional security. India has provided humanitarian aid and medical support, but Muizzu's move signals a strategic shift in foreign policy.

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren alleged Governor involvement in his January 31 arrest by the Enforcement Directorate during an assembly speech. Soren, addressing the assembly after court permission to participate in a trust vote, labeled his arrest a "dark chapter in India's democracy." Jharkhand CM Champai Soren gave Soren a clean chit, stating his arrest was unjust. Hemant Soren challenged the Enforcement Directorate to prove his connection to the alleged land scam. The development adds to the political tension in Jharkhand, as Soren's remarks raise questions about the role of the Governor in his arrest.

Taylor Swift made history at the 66th Grammy Awards, clinching Album of the Year for her acclaimed work "Midnights," marking her fourth win in the category. Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus celebrated her first-ever Grammy victory for Best Pop Solo Performance with her hit "Flowers," also nabbing Record of the Year later in the evening. The star-studded event, held in Los Angeles, saw notable wins across various genres, including Olivia Rodrigo, SZA, and Victoria Monét. Swift's achievement cements her legacy as one of the most decorated artists in Grammy history, while Cyrus's triumph marks a significant milestone in her career.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stirred controversy by alleging that President Joe Biden is not fully backing Israel's campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Ben-Gvir suggested that Donald Trump's presidency would have provided more freedom to combat the militant group. His remarks drew criticism from within Israel, with Benny Gantz, a retired general, accusing him of damaging US-Israeli relations. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned Ben-Gvir's comments as "racist" and urged international sanctions. Despite Biden's support, Ben-Gvir insisted, "If Trump was in power, the US conduct would be completely different." The ongoing conflict continues to inflict significant humanitarian and geopolitical ramifications.          

Aam Aadmi Party's Sanjay Singh, incarcerated since October over an ED probe into Delhi's excise policy, won't be sworn in as Rajya Sabha MP. The Chairman cited the matter's referral to the Privileges Committee for denying Singh's oath-taking. Despite court permission, Singh remains incarcerated, with his interim bail plea dismissed. Singh's lawyer indicated his unpressed plea due to another court appearance. The ED is investigating alleged money laundering linked to Delhi's excise policy. AAP refutes allegations of favoritism in the policy. Singh's party colleague, Manish Sisodia, also faces imprisonment in the same case since March.          

In a triumphant victory at the 66th Grammy Awards, the iconic fusion band Shakti secured the prestigious award for Best Global Music Album. Led by luminaries such as Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain, and John McLaughlin, the ensemble's latest release, 'This Moment,' marks their first album in over 45 years. Facing formidable competition, including Burna Boy and Davido, Shakti's win underscores their enduring influence and innovation in musical fusion. The preeminent award ceremony, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, celebrated the band's remarkable contributions to the global music landscape. Shakti's win reaffirms their status as trailblazers in the realm of cross-cultural musical collaboration.