Iconic Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan sparked controversy after a video surfaced showing him purportedly beating a man, identified as his disciple, with a shoe. The footage depicts Khan repeatedly striking the man while questioning him about a missing bottle. Khan later clarified the incident, attributing it to a personal matter between a teacher and his disciple. In a video response, Khan and the disciple, along with the latter's father, addressed the issue, stating there was no ill-intent behind the altercation. Khan's clarification aimed to dispel concerns raised by the disturbing video, highlighting the mentor-disciple relationship in the Qawwali tradition.

French President Emmanuel Macron, on a state visit to India, expressed admiration for India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system during a tea session with Prime Minister Narendra Modi near Jaipur's Hawa Mahal. Macron highlighted the memorable experience of enjoying chai paid through UPI as a symbol of the warmth and innovation in Indo-French relations. Macron stated, "I will not forget the chai we shared together close to the palace. It was a chai paid with UPI." PM Modi explained the UPI system, leaving Macron pleasantly surprised, with PM Modi stating, "This is a perfect synthesis of why it is so special." Plans to implement UPI in France were also discussed, enhancing convenience for Indian tourists.

In a tragic turn of events at Delhi's renowned Kalkaji Mandir, one woman lost her life and 17 others sustained injuries during a Mata Jagran overnight event. The collapse occurred when enthusiastic devotees overwhelmed an elevated platform, erected without permission, during hymns. Despite sufficient security measures, the stage crumbled under the weight, prompting a swift response from authorities. Singer B Praak, present at the event, expressed grief over the incident, emphasizing the importance of proper management. The injured were swiftly transported to various hospitals, with most in stable condition. Organizers now face legal repercussions with a case filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Aryna Sabalenka secured back-to-back Australian Open titles with a commanding straight-sets triumph over Qinwen Zheng in Melbourne. The world No. 2 displayed sheer dominance throughout the tournament, not dropping a single set en route to victory. Sabalenka's relentless performance in the final showcased her powerful serve and forehand, overwhelming the 12th seed Zheng. This victory marks Sabalenka's second grand slam title and solidifies her status as a force to be reckoned with in the women's game. With remarkable consistency at grand slams and newfound mental resilience, Sabalenka's potential for further success in the year ahead appears limitless.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced key appointments for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Baijayant Jay Panda is set to lead in Uttar Pradesh, Vinod Tawde in Bihar, and Prakash Javadekar in Kerala. The party also assigned election roles for various states, with notable figures like Biplab Kumar Deb for Haryana and Tarun Chugh for Ladakh. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani will manage Chandigarh and Punjab. The strategic appointments aim to streamline the party's campaign efforts as the nation anticipates the parliamentary polls in April-May.

Britain, Italy, and Finland have joined the United States, Australia, and Canada in pausing funding for the UN Refugee Agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) following allegations of its staff involvement in the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. UNRWA, established to assist refugees since 1948, provides vital services in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. The UK, Italy, and Finland's decision comes after Israel claimed 12 UNRWA employees participated in the cross-border attack. The agency is investigating, and some countries severed ties. The Palestinian ministry criticizes Israel's campaign against UNRWA, while Hamas condemns employee contract terminations.

Donald Trump is ordered to pay $83.3 million to E Jean Carroll in her defamation trial. The jury awards $18.3 million in compensatory damages and $65 million in punitive retribution. Trump vows to appeal, calling the verdict "absolutely ridiculous." Carroll's claims of sexual abuse and defamation won her $5 million last year. The recent ruling stems from Trump's denials and defamatory statements, with $11 million allocated for a reputational repair campaign. Trump dismisses the decision on Truth Social, denouncing it as part of a "Biden Directed Witch Hunt."

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge voices "grave concern" over Manipur's deteriorating situation, urging Union Home Minister Amit Shah for urgent action. Kharge highlights recent violence, including the assault on Congress leader Keisham Meghachandra, blaming a non-state actor. Despite the heavy security presence, Kharge criticizes Chief Minister N Biren Singh's inaction and accuses Prime Minister Modi of maintaining a troubling silence. Kharge emphasizes the responsibility of constitutional functionaries to protect democratic processes. The violence, stemming from ethnic tensions, has claimed over 180 lives since May 3, 2023.

England's Ollie Pope showcased resilience with a century, guiding England to 316-6 at stumps on Day 3 of the IND vs ENG 1st Test. Pope's unbeaten 148, supported by Ben Foakes and Rehan Ahmed, propelled England to a lead of 126 runs after India's first innings total of 436. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin claimed two wickets each for India. Pope's marathon knock, featuring 17 boundaries, anchored England's recovery from 163-5. India's spin attack posed challenges, but Pope's solid performance steered England's resurgence. The match remains finely poised as England aims to build on their lead on Day 4.    

The Jonas Brothers, comprising Nick, Kevin, and Joe, have landed in Mumbai for their first-ever performance in India at Lollapalooza 2024. Nick Jonas received a warm welcome from the Mumbai paparazzi upon arrival. While Priyanka Chopra expressed excitement for their Mumbai concert on social media, she did not accompany them. The event, scheduled for January 27–28 at Mahalaxmi Race Course, features a lineup including Jungle, Royal Blood, Halsey, and more. The brothers' visit to India marks a return since attending Nick's wedding to Priyanka in 2018. Their presence adds to the anticipation surrounding the music festival.