Maharashtra minister Uday Samant has objected to Vicky Kaushal's upcoming film Chhaava, set for release on February 14, 2025. He criticized a scene depicting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj dancing and demanded its removal. “We will not let it release,” Samant declared, urging the film be reviewed by historians to ensure accuracy. Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, a descendant of Shivaji Maharaj, also requested to view the film, advocating historical precision. The film, starring Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj, along with Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna, chronicles the life of Shivaji’s son. Samant warned of blocking the release if changes aren't made.

The Trump administration has suspended all foreign aid and initiated a comprehensive review of financial assistance to ensure alignment with the "America First" agenda. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that President Trump emphasized ending "blindly doling out money" without benefiting the American people. Secretary of State Marco Rubio paused all assistance via the State Department and USAID, pledging a thorough evaluation to safeguard taxpayers’ investments. In 2023, USAID allocated $45 billion across 158 countries, including $400M to Bangladesh and $175M to India. Rubio stressed that aid must make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

Delhi experienced its warmest Republic Day in 8 years on January 26, with the maximum temperature reaching 23.7°C, surpassing the normal by 2°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The previous record was in 2017 at 26.1°C. Clear skies provided an ideal backdrop for the Republic Day Parade, as foggy conditions were absent. IMD attributes the warmth to dry northwesterly winds and bright sunshine. Temperatures are expected to rise further due to an incoming western disturbance, with minimum temperatures increasing to 9-11°C by the weekend. Meanwhile, Delhi’s AQI deteriorated from 'moderate' to 'poor,' standing at 240 on Monday.

South Korea's impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has been charged with insurrection following his attempt to declare martial law in December. Yoon's controversial move, meant to address "anti-state" forces, sparked a national crisis and led to his impeachment by parliament. He faces trial alongside his former defense minister and military commanders. Opposition leaders condemned his actions, with thousands protesting his bid for power. The Constitutional Court is deliberating on whether to formally remove him from office. Insurrection charges carry severe penalties, though execution is unlikely. If removed, a presidential election must be held within 60 days.

Jasprit Bumrah, recovering from a back injury, attended Coldplay’s concert in Ahmedabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Lead singer Chris Martin dedicated a humorous song to Bumrah, praising him as the "best bowler in cricket" while joking about England’s defeats. Coldplay also displayed Bumrah’s signed Test jersey on stage, honoring the pacer at his home ground. The concert, live-streamed on Hotstar, surprised fans with Bumrah’s presence. Bumrah is expected to recover in time for the Champions Trophy, beginning February 19, with his participation depending on fitness. The moment brought a blend of music and cricket, thrilling fans nationwide.

Israel announced that Palestinians could return to northern Gaza after Hamas agreed to release six more hostages. The ceasefire, aimed at resolving the 15-month conflict, has enabled hostages' staggered release and humanitarian aid delivery. Former U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial proposal to relocate Gazans to Egypt or Jordan drew backlash from Arab nations, with Jordan and Egypt rejecting the idea as "ethnic cleansing." The United Nations labeled Gaza's humanitarian situation as "dire," with thousands displaced. Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 47,306 people in Gaza and 1,210 in Israel have lost their lives.

Maharashtra has reported its first death due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), with 101 cases recorded, predominantly in Pune. Of these, 81 are from Pune Municipal Corporation, 14 from Pimpri-Chinchwad, and 6 from other districts. GBS, a rare neurological disorder causing muscle weakness and paralysis, has prompted the state to deploy rapid response teams and increase surveillance. Water samples are being tested for biological and chemical analysis. The Union Health Ministry has sent a team to assess the outbreak. Authorities urge private practitioners to report GBS cases while ramping up health promotion activities across affected areas.

The US paused sanctions on Colombia after its government agreed to accept deportation flights, including those on US military aircraft. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Colombia's unconditional compliance with President Donald Trump’s terms. While tariff orders remain on hold, visa restrictions on Colombian officials and enhanced customs inspections will persist until the first deportee flight is completed. Trump emphasized this as a testament to America’s renewed global respect, stating, “We will protect our sovereignty.” The agreement marks a significant shift in US-Colombia relations amidst Trump’s firm immigration policies.

Uttarakhand has become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), marking a historic moment in India's legal landscape. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the UCC portal today, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit. The UCC ensures equal rights in marriage, property, and succession, prohibiting polygamy and mandating marriage registration. The legislation, passed in February 2024, received presidential assent in March. Dhami emphasized its role in fostering equality and eradicating discrimination based on religion, gender, or caste. This landmark move underscores the state's commitment to a secular, harmonious society.

Coldplay's Chris Martin delivered an unforgettable tribute to India during the band's Republic Day concert in Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. Mid-performance, Martin transitioned to a piano, performing soulful renditions of Vande Mataram and Maa Tujhe Salaam, drawing thunderous applause from the audience. He concluded with "Salute to Mother India," touching the hearts of fans. The concert, part of Coldplay's Music of the Spheres India tour, featured hits and tributes, including shoutouts to Shah Rukh Khan and Jasprit Bumrah. Streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar, the event showcased Martin's respect for Indian culture and fans.