The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) condemned rising attacks on Christians during Christmas, citing incidents like the harassment of a visually impaired woman in Jabalpur. The body urged Amit Shah to protect Christian communities, demanded dismissal of BJP official Anju Bhargava, and called for action against hate campaigns.
After an eight-wicket win in the first T20I, India faces Sri Lanka in the second match at ACA-VDCA, Vishakapatnam, today. The pitch is slow and spinner-friendly. Batters need time to settle. Bowling first is ideal due to the dew. Posting 160–170 runs could create a competitive game. Fielding improvements remain crucial for India.
Instagram allows users to auto-scroll through Reels, enabling the next video to play automatically. To activate this feature, open any Reel, click the three dots on the right, and turn on the “Auto Scroll” option. While YouTube videos have an autoplay feature, Shorts do not; PC users need a browser extension to access this functionality.
Choosing the right cookware affects taste, health, and convenience. Cast iron offers durability, heat retention, and added iron but is heavy and requires maintenance. Non-stick ensures easy cooking and cleaning but wears out faster and may pose health risks. Stainless steel is durable and versatile but may cause sticking. Match cookware to your cooking style.
The Asaro tribe of Papua New Guinea is renowned for their “Mud Men” ritual. Members cover their bodies in white clay and don intimidating clay masks to scare off enemies. In their culture, pigs represent wealth and status, and these eye-catching costumes, which are rooted in ancestral war traditions, now draw many curious visitors.
Indian visa services have restarted in Bangladesh, except at Chittagong, closed over security concerns after protests following Osman Hadi’s death. Violence included attacks on Indian diplomatic staff. Other centres, including Sylhet, function normally with increased security to prevent unrest, ensuring visa applications continue smoothly across the country.
Varanasi police intensified action against a multi-state codeine cough syrup trafficking network. Lookout notices were issued for kingpin Shubham Jaiswal and four associates, with his reward increased to Rs 50,000. The gang used fake pharmaceutical firms to procure and smuggle syrup. Investigations continue, targeting other involved in the illegal network.
Secularism ensures equal respect for all religions while keeping the state neutral in matters of faith. It promotes freedom of belief and protection of individual rights. By separating religion from governance, secularism strengthens democracy, prevents discrimination, and helps diverse societies live together with mutual understanding, tolerance, and unity.
Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut visited Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, Jharkhand, completing her ninth Jyotirlinga darshan. The temple, one of twelve Jyotirlingas, draws devotees seeking blessings and healing. Open from 4 am with morning and evening darshans, the best visiting period is October–March. Accessible by air, train, and road, it offers a spiritual experience.
A 22-year-old Bengaluru woman filed a Rs 62 lakh civil suit after society board members harassed her during a small gathering. CCTV footage confirmed trespass and misconduct. Legal action led to the accused being removed, fined, and permanently restrained. Her story praising self-assertion and property rights gained widespread support on social media.
PM Modi hosted Olympic javelin champion Neeraj Chopra and his wife, Himani Mor, at his residence to discuss sports and other topics. In 2025, Neeraj achieved personal milestones, including crossing 90 metres in Doha, winning Paris and Ostrava Diamond Leagues, hosting the Neeraj Chopra Classic, receiving a Territorial Army commission, and getting married.
Actor Prabhas prefers traveling by private jet to maintain privacy and control over his public image, avoiding leaks and trolling over his appearance. He also enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, traveling comfortably with friends. His strict adherence to private jet travel, highlighted during promotions, reflects both personal preference and his desire for privacy.
The Gajipur village council in Jalore, Rajasthan, has banned smartphones for young women and daughters in 15 villages. From January 26, only keypad phones will be allowed. Smartphones are also prohibited during weddings and other events. The council said the move aims to protect children’s eyesight and ensure better health for the youth.
Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina released an audio message stating Das was falsely accused and no proof existed of insulting the Prophet. People in Bangladesh and India are protesting the murder of Hindu man Dipu Das, demanding justice. Condemning the brutality, Hasina assured the victim’s family that she would work to ensure justice.
Santa Claus comes from St. Nicholas, a kind bishop known for helping children. The Dutch name Sinterklaas shaped his modern identity. His red suit became popular through Coca-Cola ads. Flying reindeer came from a 1823 poem. Santa is said to live at the North Pole, receives letters from children, and appears in cultures worldwide today.