Times of India

The world of Odia music dimmed on January 25, 2026, with the passing of the beloved singer and composer Abhijit Majumdar at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Enduring a series of severe health crises, including a cardiac arrest that led to refractory septic shock, his legacy is cherished by many. Read on to know more.

Drake Maye is healthy and set to start for the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos. He has a chance to achieve something the franchise has never done by winning a playoff game in Denver. With the Patriots unbeaten on the road this season, Maye leads a confident team into a hostile, high-altitude environment.

Renowned journalist Sir Mark Tully, who spent decades reporting from India, has passed away in Delhi at 90. Born in Kolkata to British parents, Tully developed a deep connection with India, covering pivotal events like the Emergency and the assassinations of Indira and Rajiv Gandhi. His insightful books explored India's complexities, earning him prestigious awards and a lasting legacy.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee fiercely criticized the Election Commission on National Voters' Day, calling it a "tragic farce" and accusing it of "destroying democracy on BJP's behalf." She alleged the EC is harassing citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, by demanding physical appearances for verification, leading to distress and deaths.

A college professor was fatally stabbed on a crowded Mumbai local train after a sudden argument at Malad station. CCTV footage captured the attack and helped police swiftly arrest a daily-wage labourer as the accused. The victim, Alok Kumar Singh, was a mathematics and statistics teacher.

Pathanamthitta District Collector Prem Krishnan S narrowly avoided serious harm when his official car overturned after a collision with a speeding private vehicle on the wrong side of the road. The Collector, his security officer, and driver sustained minor injuries, attributing their safety to wearing seat belts.

The World Cricketers' Association expressed disappointment over Bangladesh's withdrawal from the T20 World Cup, calling it a "sad moment" and urging "deep reflection." The ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland after the BCB's request to move matches to Sri Lanka was rejected, citing security concerns. The WCA highlighted broader trends of agreements not being honored and a lack of player consultation.

The Indian rupee has hit a historic low against the US dollar, making imports like crude oil and electronics pricier for consumers. While this impacts overseas education and travel costs, it offers a silver lining for exporters by increasing their earnings. Experts advise a balanced approach to manage growth and inflation.

India's regional air connectivity scheme is set for a major overhaul. The government plans to financially support airlines operating on remote routes to cover potential losses. This revamp aims to make flights to hinterland destinations commercially viable. The proposal awaits Cabinet approval. The scheme has already disbursed significant subsidies and invested in airport development.

Former India all-rounder R Ashwin has urged Team India to stay patient with Sanju Samson despite his twin failures against New Zealand. With Ishan Kishan’s strong knock increasing competition and Tilak Varma set to return, Ashwin warned against frequent changes, saying it could hurt team balance. He backed Samson’s attacking intent, while Aakash Chopra called the next match crucial for his future.

A chilling incident in Kurnool has sparked outrage as four people, including a nurse and her young children, face serious charges after allegedly injecting a doctor with HIV-infected blood. The attack was reportedly motivated by revenge, with the victim being the ex-wife of one of the accused, who was lured into a fabricated accident as part of the sinister plot.

A domestic dispute in Georgia, US, tragically ended with an Indian-origin man allegedly killing his wife and three relatives. The couple's three children, who hid during the violence, alerted authorities. The suspect is now in custody facing multiple murder and cruelty charges. The victims have been identified, and the investigation is ongoing.

A 28-year-old Vancouver man with known gang links, Dilraj Singh Gill, was fatally shot in Burnaby on Thursday evening. Investigators believe this is part of B.C.'s escalating gang conflict, with a torched vehicle found nearby linked to the killing. Gill had a history of drug-related convictions and alleged ties to a group in conflict with the Brothers Keepers gang.

A one-year-old boy was allegedly kidnapped and strangled to death in Panchkula, Haryana. The accused, identified as Ajay, was arrested after posing as the child's father to abduct him from a crèche. Investigations are ongoing, with the boy's mother also being questioned.

Railway Budget 2026: Though budgetary support on infrastructure build remains critical, linking these investments to structural reforms will be essential.

Bangladesh has accepted the ICC's decision to replace its national team with Scotland in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Bangladesh Cricket Board cited government advice regarding safety concerns in India as the reason for their refusal to travel. Despite repeated efforts and alternative proposals, the ICC did not agree to relocate Bangladesh's matches.

Speaking during the 130th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi highlighted the significance of the upcoming Republic Day and the constitutional values it represents. He also drew attention to the importance of January 25, which is observed as National Voters’ Day, describing it as a key occasion in the democratic calendar.

A powerful winter storm has caused widespread US air travel disruptions, leading to over 13,000 flight cancellations and impacting major airports. Airlines are waiving change fees and offering rebooking options, but compensation for meals or lodging during weather-related cancellations is not guaranteed.

Former India all-rounder Madan Lal backed the ICC's decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland for the 2026 T20 World Cup, deeming it justified and timely. He suggested external influence led to Bangladesh's withdrawal, calling it a significant mistake that opens opportunities for Scotland.