More than 2.5 lakh devotees flocked to Ayodhya's Ram Temple on the first day post the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, with a similar number eagerly awaiting darshan. Senior officials from the Uttar Pradesh government monitored the orderly movement inside the temple premises as the influx of devotees surged. With over 8,000 security personnel present, the temple opened its doors to the general public, witnessing a massive crowd. Devotees from various regions, including Chandigarh and Odisha, expressed joy and enthusiasm, traveling great distances for the divine 'darshan' of Lord Ram Lalla. The 'Pran Pratishtha' celebrations marked unbridled festivities nationwide.

Former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur, revered as 'Jannayak' and a key advocate for backward castes, to be awarded Bharat Ratna posthumously. Known for imprisonments during Quit India Movement, he served as CM in two terms. Thakur's 1978 initiative in Bihar laid the groundwork for Mandal Commission's 1990 recommendations. PM Modi hails the recognition, citing Thakur's social justice efforts and equality advocacy. Born on January 24, 1924, he won elections consistently since 1952, leaving a lasting impact on Indian politics. The honor marks his contributions to marginalized communities and empowerment during his birth centenary.

As Ayodhya's Ram temple opens to the public, a massive influx of devotees creates substantial crowds. Chief priest Acharya Satyendra Das predicts a prolonged wait for 'darshan' due to the overwhelming turnout reminiscent of 'Treta Yug' times. The post-consecration fervor attracts thousands, echoing joyous 'Jai Shree Ram' chants. The festive atmosphere resonates with enthusiasm as the newly constructed temple witnesses an influx of pilgrims. Authorities anticipate challenges managing the large gathering, with rituals ongoing and plans for streamlining daily ceremonies. Devotees, eager to catch a glimpse of Lord Ram Lalla, contribute to the historic event's vibrancy.

ISRO's Republic Day Parade tableau highlights India's space achievements, featuring the successful Chandrayaan-3 landing on the Moon's South Pole. The tableau displays the historic moment at "Shiv Shakti Point." Uttar Pradesh's tableau emphasizes Lord Ram's depiction, coinciding with the recent Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. UP's tableau also showcases development projects, including the Meerut Rapid Rail and BrahMos missile manufacturing. The Republic Day parade will feature 25 tableaux, with France's President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest. India's space ambitions and cultural milestones take center stage in the patriotic showcase.

Kolkata Police averted a potential suicide attempt as a distressed 40-year-old man threatened to jump off a busy city bridge. Facing personal and financial difficulties, the man was persuaded to step down after police, along with the Disaster Management Group, engaged in conversation. Employing a unique strategy, officers offered employment and a biryani packet, ensuring the man's safe return. The incident, causing traffic disruption, underscores the importance of prompt intervention in mental health crises. Authorities express relief, emphasizing the potential dangers the man faced if the situation had escalated.

White marble idol of Ram Lalla, crafted by Rajasthan's sculptor Satyanarayan Pandey, finds a home in Ayodhya's grand temple. Although it didn't secure a place in the sanctum sanctorum, this intricately carved 51-inch idol showcases Lord Ram holding a golden bow and arrow, surrounded by smaller sculptures depicting various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. While Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj's black stone idol graces the temple's main sanctum, Pandey's masterpiece highlights remarkable craftsmanship and will have its own special place within the temple, a testament to the diversity of artistic contributions.

In Mumbai's Mira Road suburb, bulldozers accompanied by a large police force dismantled "illegal" constructions following clashes related to the Ram Temple rally. Videos showed two groups hurling stones, leading to arrests of over a dozen people. The clashes occurred during a Shri Ram Shobha Yatra, resulting in injuries. Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis warned of severe consequences for those disrupting law and order. Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Bajbale stated the situation is under control after a flag march, with 13 accused detained, and efforts to identify others underway through CCTV footage.

A clash unfolded in Guwahati as nearly 5,000 Congress workers, including Rahul Gandhi, were halted by police during the restart of the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Assam. Accusing the Assam government of hindering their march, the confrontation led to police using lathi-charge to disperse the gathering. Rahul Gandhi emphasized the party's commitment to maintaining order while alleging that the Union Home Minister instructed the CM to prevent his meeting with students. He criticized restrictions on language and history, asserting efforts to "enslave" North East and Indian students. Tensions rise in the ongoing political face-off.

As Ayodhya's Ram Temple opens, Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das joyfully likens the scene to 'Treta Yug,' recalling Lord Ram's era. The Nagari, pure post-Pran Pratishtha, witnesses unprecedented crowds seeking darshan. Chief Priest anticipates sustained enthusiasm. He credits the turnout to 4,000 saints bringing devotees. The consecration ceremony on Monday marks the beginning of Ram Rajya, promising harmony and equality. However, the sheer number of visitors poses a challenge, prompting heightened security measures along the 13-km Ram Path. The Bhakti Path experiences an unforeseen crowd, with authorities managing the influx using barricades and ropes.

Highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks of globalisation, India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, criticized its negative impact on economic power concentration during an address in Lagos. He remarked that currency, trade, and tourism have become "weapons," controlled by a few regions, fostering dependency. Jaishankar emphasized a reluctance to alter the 1945-established world order, limiting opportunities for others. He stated, "The world was diverse and it was distorted by the period of Western domination." While acknowledging positive aspects, he noted globalisation's economic concentration challenges. The minister's insights were shared during an interaction session at the Nigerian Institute Of International Affairs.