The ongoing Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir enters its sixth day, featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and lead priest Lakshmikant Dixit. Today's events include morning puja, the kindling of the sacred fire (Havan), and a significant ceremonial bath for the Ram Lalla idol using medicated water from 114 Kalash. The 'Vyahati Hom' ritual, sacred offerings, night vigil, and regular puja conclude the day. Friday witnessed Vedic rituals, including sugar and fruit offerings, with the placement of the idol by renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj.

ISRO showcases images of Ayodhya's Ram Temple, captured by Indian satellites. The 2.7-acre site, including Dashrath Mahal and Sarayu River, is vividly seen, offering a glimpse of the under-construction temple ahead of its consecration ceremony. Dense fog posed a challenge, but the National Remote Sensing Centre in Hyderabad processed the images. ISRO's technology played a pivotal role in the temple's construction, aiding in identifying the precise location for Lord Ram's idol. Sophisticated GPS and signals from India's 'NavIC' satellite constellation ensured meticulous placement in the sanctum sanctorum.

TasteAtlas ranks Mexico's Aguas Frescas as the top non-alcoholic beverage globally, with masala chai claiming the second spot. Masala chai, an aromatic Indian beverage, blends black tea with spices, sugar, and milk. Originating from the British tea trade era in the 19th century, it gained popularity in the 20th century, promoted by the Indian Tea Association. Typically prepared at "chaiwallahs" in India, masala chai's global appeal reflects its unique blend of flavors. TasteAtlas celebrates its status as a beloved non-alcoholic choice, showcasing the enduring love for the warm and fragrant cup of masala chai worldwide.

Manipur witnesses a 48-hour bandh called by the Joint Action Committee in response to the alleged killing of village guard Takhellambam Manoranjan Singh. The bandh, from January 20 to 22, paralyzed normal life, impacting marketplaces, towns, and transport services. The committee demanded government action within a 24-hour ultimatum, including the removal of Central forces, withdrawal of Kuki militant groups' SoO agreement, and implementation of the National Register of Citizens. Manipur grapples with heightened violence, with seven recent casualties and ongoing ethnic tensions. The bandh underscores the community's demand for enhanced security measures amid the volatile situation.

Amidst escalating tensions, reports reveal commanders from Iran's Revolutionary Guards and Hezbollah are aiding Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The UK announces a £405 million upgrade to its missile system to counter hostile drones. Houthi strikes, allegedly targeting Israeli vessels, prompt US and UK naval responses. Recent US Central Command strikes and heightened presence of Iranian-backed forces in Yemen intensify concerns. Saudi Arabia warns of potential regional escalation. The Red Sea crisis, ongoing since November, disrupts trade routes between Asia and Europe. US re-lists Houthis as terrorists, demanding a halt to Red Sea attacks for a potential reevaluation.

NATO's announcement of Steadfast Defender 2024, its largest exercises since the Cold War, sparks worries of heightened tensions with Russia. Involving 90,000 troops, the maneuvers simulate potential reinforcement scenarios for European allies in proximity to Russia. Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko deems the exercises an "irrevocable return" to Cold War strategies, characterizing them as part of a "hybrid war" against Russia. Though not explicitly named, NATO's strategic document identifies Russia as a significant threat. With ongoing accusations and the history of the Ukraine invasion, concerns mount over potential implications for East-West relations amid these large-scale military exercises.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a symbolic gesture, visited the Arichal Munai near Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu, where the legendary Ram Setu was believed to have been built. Performing 'anulom vilom,' he immersed in spiritual practices at the site linked to Lord Ram's journey to Lanka. Modi also conducted puja at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple, associated with significant events from the Ramayana. These visits hold profound significance as they precede the pran-pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya. Amid heightened security preparations, Modi's spiritual journey culminates in the much-anticipated event in Ayodhya, marking a pivotal moment in India's cultural and religious landscape.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi has rescinded its earlier announcement of a half-day closure on January 22 due to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha ceremony. Facing severe backlash, the central government-run hospital will now remain fully operational. The reversal follows criticism for aligning its schedule with the temple event. AIIMS clarified that outpatient services and critical clinical care will continue without interruption. The Ayodhya Ram temple's consecration ceremony is set for Monday, with the "Pran Pratishtha" ritual scheduled from 12:20 pm to 1 pm.

In a heart-wrenching incident, a 14-year-old boy in the Maldives succumbed to illness after President Mohammed Muizzu allegedly denied approval for the use of an Indian-provided Dornier aircraft for his airlift. Suffering from a brain tumor and stroke, the boy's family urgently sought an air ambulance to transport him from Gaaf Alif Villingili to Male. The family claims authorities failed to arrange prompt medical evacuation, resulting in a 16-hour delay. Diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives add a somber backdrop to the tragedy, with MP Meekail Naseem expressing concerns over lives being jeopardized for political reasons.

As the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya approaches, the fervor resonates across the UK, where approximately 250 Hindu temples are gearing up for the 'Prana Pratishtha' ceremony on January 22. The Slough Hindu Temple, located near London, is immersed in spiritual enthusiasm, adorned with idols of Lord Rama, Lakshman, and Mata Sita. Volunteers tirelessly decorate for an expected 4000-4500 visitors. The temple receives blessed rice from Ayodhya, while 250kg of laddoos are prepared for distribution. The 'mangal kalash' touring the UK arrives on January 21, adding to the grandeur of the celebration.