US President Joe Biden described Los Angeles as a "battle scene" following the devastating wildfires that continue to ravage the city. Speaking from the Oval Office, Biden noted "clear evidence" of looting in affected neighborhoods, prompting authorities to enforce nighttime curfews and deploy military and National Guard personnel for security. He criticized "demagogues" for spreading misinformation about the disaster, likening the destruction to targeted bombings in a war zone. Biden's remarks come as California grapples with one of its worst fire seasons, displacing thousands and causing widespread destruction. The fires have intensified debates over climate change and disaster preparedness.

India’s live music industry is thriving, with concert revenues projected to touch ₹1,000 crore by 2025. Global artists like Coldplay, Dua Lipa, and Ed Sheeran, alongside Indian stars like Diljit Dosanjh, are drawing massive crowds. An EY report highlights a shift towards experiential spending, fueled by rising disposable incomes and music tourism. BookMyShow data reveals an 18% increase in live events spanning 319 cities. However, infrastructure, regulatory guidelines, and rising production costs challenge organisers. Singer Shaan calls this boom “encouraging,” while Diljit Dosanjh stresses the need for better venues. India's evolving concert culture signals a bright future for live entertainment.

A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for areas impacted by the Palisades fire in Los Angeles, covering Sunset Boulevard North to Encino Reservoir and the 405 Freeway West to Mandeville Canyon. The fire has consumed over 21,317 acres with only 8% containment, as wildfires ravage parts of the city. At least 11 fatalities and widespread destruction have been reported. LA police enforce a 6 pm-6 am curfew, warning violators of arrests and fines. Meanwhile, Paris Hilton, whose Malibu home burned down, donated $100,000 and pledged to match donations for displaced families. Thousands remain under evacuation.

A 10-month-old child in Assam's Dibrugarh has tested positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), marking the first case in the state for 2025. The toddler was admitted to AMCH with a common cold and was diagnosed with the virus during routine screening. The total number of HMPV cases in India now stands at 11, with cases confirmed in several states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. Health officials have reassured the public that HMPV primarily affects children under five and there is no immediate cause for alarm.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the viral "Melodi memes" featuring him and Italy's Giorgia Meloni during his podcast debut on People by WTF, hosted by Nikhil Kamath. Modi dismissed the memes, saying, “Wo toh chalta rehta hai,” and added he doesn’t focus on online trends. Revealing his simple eating habits, Modi admitted to struggling with menus, recalling how late Arun Jaitley often helped him order vegetarian meals during RSS days. The podcast covered his childhood, stress management, and policy insights, offering a glimpse into Modi’s personal and professional journey.

Outgoing US President Joe Biden stated he could have defeated Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election but withdrew to unify the Democratic Party. In July 2024, Biden endorsed Kamala Harris as his replacement, citing party concerns about his health and performance. Despite Harris's loss, Biden expressed confidence in her leadership and potential to run again. Reflecting on his term, Biden called it the "greatest honour" of his life and ruled out withdrawing from public life. He denied any plans to pardon himself or his family, asserting he has "done nothing wrong."

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, along with their children Vamika and Akaay, visited Vrindavan Dham to meet spiritual guru Premanand Ji Maharaj. A viral video captured the family kneeling and seeking blessings from the renowned guru. Anushka shared her experiences with Premanand, expressing her spiritual growth through his teachings. Premanand praised the couple's devotion, calling it a rare achievement. This public appearance with their children marked a rare moment for the family, who typically keep them away from the spotlight. Virat, after a tough Australia series, now focuses on upcoming ODIs and the ICC Champions Trophy.

Nearly 1,000 incarcerated individuals are battling massive wildfires in California, part of a programme run by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The fires have destroyed 10,000 structures, burned 37,000 acres, and killed 11 people. Inmates, earning $5.80-$10.24 daily, cut fire lines and clear fuel to slow the spread. Critics call the programme exploitative due to low wages and lack of recognition, while supporters argue it provides training, time credits, and better living conditions. Many inmates face stigma after release, struggling to become professional firefighters despite California's firefighter shortage.

Elon Musk's biographer, Seth Abramson, has raised concerns about Musk’s mental health, accusing him of being "deeply unwell." In posts on X, Abramson cited Musk’s acknowledged struggles with stress, drug use, and mental health, warning of risks posed by his influence over key industries like AI, aerospace, and social media. Abramson also criticized Musk’s controversial behavior online, including his support for far-right figures and polarizing political remarks. Calling for urgent action, Abramson urged the government to terminate contracts with Musk and file lawsuits. The claims have sparked widespread debate, with users questioning Musk’s stability and intentions.

The BCCI has requested an extension from the ICC to announce India’s provisional Champions Trophy squad, delaying the original January 12 deadline. Reports suggest the squad will now be revealed on January 19, one month before the tournament begins in Pakistan. The delay is attributed to ongoing deliberations after India’s performance in Australia and ahead of the England series, which could shape the final squad. The provisional squad will feature 15 members and 3 reserves as per ICC rules. A review meeting with captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir will finalize the team for both events.