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INOllywood's Hit Machine Abhijit Majumdar Passes Away at 54
IN: Renowned Ollywood music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar has died at the age of 54. He was admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar following a sudden illness, where he passed away. Majumdar was celebrated as a "hit machine" in the Odia film industry, creating numerous popular songs over his career. His untimely demise has sent waves of grief through the industry and among his fans in Odisha and beyond.
'Barbershop' Series Reboot Casts Comedy All-Stars
US: Prime Video is assembling a comedy dream team for its upcoming "Barbershop" TV series. The cast includes recently departed "SNL" stars Ego Nwodim and Devon Walker, alongside "Abbott Elementary" standout Janelle James, "Ziwe" host Ziwe, and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" actor Tituss Burgess. The series, based on the hit film franchise, will bring the iconic Chicago barbershop's humor and community to the streaming platform with a fresh, star-studded ensemble.
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Trump Narrows Fed Chair Pick, Traders Brace for Impact
US: President Donald Trump has signaled he is close to choosing his preferred candidate for Federal Reserve chair, reportedly narrowing it down to a single favorite. Wall Street is closely watching the decision, with financier Rick Rieder seen as a leading contender. Markets are bracing for potential volatility as the announcement could significantly influence future monetary policy and interest rate decisions.
Colin Jost to Host 'Pop Culture Jeopardy!' on Netflix
US: Colin Jost is returning to host the revived "Pop Culture Jeopardy!" game show, which is moving from Amazon to Netflix. The "Saturday Night Live" fan-favorite and longtime "Weekend Update" co-anchor previously hosted a pilot for the spinoff. This move confirms Netflix's acquisition of the series and expands Jost's hosting duties within the "Jeopardy!" franchise beyond his occasional stints on the classic show.
Trump's NATO Remarks Draw Fury from Allies
US: President Donald Trump has sparked international outrage by claiming NATO troops "stayed a little back" from front lines in Afghanistan, while praising UK soldiers. The comments, which suggest allied forces did not fully share combat burdens, were swiftly condemned by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer as "appalling." The remarks have strained relations with key NATO partners, reopening old debates about contributions to the decades-long Afghan conflict.
Veteran Odia Music Director Abhijit Majumdar Passes Away at 54
IN: Veteran Odia music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar, renowned as a hit machine in the Ollywood industry, has passed away at the age of 54. He died at AIIMS Bhubaneswar after a period of illness. Majumdar was a celebrated figure in Odia cinema, leaving behind a legacy of popular musical work.
Trump Walks Back Praise for UK Troops After NATO Remarks Spark Outrage
US: Donald Trump faced swift condemnation from UK leaders after making comments that downplayed NATO allies' role in the Afghanistan War. Following the outrage, he walked back his remarks and praised British troops. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over Trump's view of international alliances and his controversial historical assessments of military engagements.
"Wicker" Charms Sundance with Colman & Skarsgård
US: The quirky romance "Wicker," starring Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård, has premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to positive reviews. The film, which also features Peter Dinklage, was a highlight of the festival, with the cast discussing the project in interviews. The festival also showcased other anticipated titles like "The Invite," setting the stage for the 2026 event.
Teyana Taylor's Oscar Dream: From Screams to SNL
US: After her first Oscar nomination, Teyana Taylor describes screaming with joy alongside Jessie Buckley. The multi-talented Golden Globe winner credits prayer and perseverance for her milestone. She also teases an upcoming *Saturday Night Live* performance, capping a remarkable journey from music video star to acclaimed actress on Hollywood's biggest stage.
Odia Music Maestro Abhijit Majumdar Passes Away at 54
IN: Renowned Odia lyricist and music director Abhijit Majumdar has died at the age of 54. He was undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. The news of his passing has sent waves of grief through the Odia film and music industry, where he was celebrated for his significant contributions. Multiple Odia news outlets have confirmed his demise, marking the end of an era for Odia cinema's musical landscape.
He-Man Roars Back: New 'Masters of the Universe' Trailer Sparks Nostalgia & Debate
US: The first trailer for the live-action "Masters of the Universe" film has arrived, generating excitement for its June 5th release. While some fans celebrate the nostalgic, powerful visuals that "actually look good," others question if the movie, like past attempts, is taking its fantasy premise too seriously. The film, from Amazon MGM Studios, aims to finally succeed where others have failed in bringing He-Man to the big screen.
Top Savings Rates Now: Earn Up to 5.00% APY
GB: Leading financial outlets report high-yield savings rates remain strong, with top APYs reaching 4% to 5.00% as of late January 2026. Savers can find competitive offers from various banks, with one account being highlighted as the current number one in the market. This presents a prime opportunity to grow emergency funds and short-term savings significantly faster than with traditional accounts.
Teyana Taylor Hosts SNL with Geese as Musical Guest
US: On January 24, 2026, "Saturday Night Live" features multi-talented performer Teyana Taylor as host. The episode's musical guest is the band Geese, making for a unique night of comedy and music. Viewers can watch the live broadcast on NBC or stream it later on Peacock.
Trump's Greenland Gambit Upends Ukraine Peace Hopes
US: Recent reports indicate President Trump's sudden diplomatic focus on purchasing Greenland has severely disrupted stalled U.S.-led efforts to broker an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. His centralized, unpredictable style, including a related Davos speech, has created whiplash among allies and made progress toward a Ukrainian peace deal appear nearly impossible, as the Greenland issue overshadows critical negotiations.
Trump's $225B Mortgage Push Fails to Cut Housing Costs
GB: The Trump administration's plan to purchase up to $225 billion in mortgage bonds, aimed at boosting housing affordability, is reportedly having little impact on actual housing costs. Analysts suggest bond market investors, or "bond vigilantes," are countering the effort by demanding higher yields. Despite the scale of the proposed intervention, experts indicate it is not effectively lowering mortgage rates or making homes more accessible to buyers.
Bond Markets Clash with Trump's Housing Affordability Agenda
GB: The Trump administration's push for housing affordability, including proposed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac IPOs and mortgage bond purchases, is facing stiff resistance from bond vigilantes. These market actors are demanding higher yields, increasing government borrowing costs and complicating efforts to lower housing expenses. Analysts suggest market forces, not policy announcements, will ultimately control the direction and cost of mortgage credit.
Red-Crowned Cranes Grace Winter Wetlands in NE China
US: Stunning images from Zhalong National Nature Reserve in Heilongjiang, China, showcase red-crowned cranes in their winter habitat. The elegant, endangered birds are seen foraging and resting in the snow-covered wetlands. The reserve is a crucial sanctuary for this iconic species, offering vital protection. These photographs highlight both the beauty of the cranes and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts in the region.
Texas Dems Debate ICE Overhaul After Shooting
US: In the first Democratic primary debate for Texas's U.S. Senate seat, candidates Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico clashed on key issues. The debate, occurring hours after a mass shooting in Minnesota, took a sharp turn toward immigration, with both candidates calling for a major overhaul of ICE. Their discussion highlighted policy differences as they vie to challenge the Republican incumbent in the pivotal 2026 race.
Trump's 21st Anniversary: A Quiet Return from Davos
US: President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump marked their 21st wedding anniversary privately upon his return from the World Economic Forum in Davos. Reports indicate a low-key celebration was planned in Florida, a contrast to their opulent 2005 wedding at Mar-a-Lago, which featured Versailles-inspired details and a renowned designer gown. The anniversary underscores the couple's personal milestone amidst the president's official diplomatic engagements.
Can Melania's Movie Survive Its Controversial Launch?
US: The upcoming Melania Trump documentary, backed by Brett Ratner and Jeff Bezos, faces a turbulent path to profitability. Reports indicate the White House is engaged in a "desperate" effort to manage the film's rollout and public perception. The project aims to rehabilitate Ratner's reputation while presenting the former First Lady's story, but industry analysts are skeptical it can overcome its political baggage and find a wide, paying audience.
Costa Rica Braces for Cold Snap, Bicycle Theft Rises
US: Costa Rica is facing a dual challenge. A strong cold front is set to bring increased rains, winds, and a significant chill to the Valle Central this weekend, dropping temperatures noticeably. Concurrently, a report highlights a surge in bicycle theft, threatening the country's efforts to promote sustainable urban mobility and impacting daily commuters.
iPhone 17e: Apple's Budget Phone May Defy Price Hike Trend
US: Rumors suggest Apple's upcoming mid-range iPhone 17e could avoid a price increase, potentially even becoming cheaper, due to supply chain efficiencies. The model is also tipped to receive six significant upgrades, positioning it as a major update to Apple's affordable lineup. This contrasts with competitors who are raising prices.
US Exits WHO; California Defies with Membership
CA: The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization, a move initiated under the Trump administration. In a direct rebuke, California announced it will join a WHO health network independently, signaling a state-level commitment to global health cooperation and highlighting deep domestic political divisions over international engagement.
Drones & Crowds: High-Tech Security for Ratha Saptami 2026
IN: For Ratha Saptami 2026, major temples like Tirumala and Arasavalli are implementing stringent tech-driven crowd control. Authorities will deploy 15 drones and 150 CCTV cameras for safety, alongside special darshan schedules and token systems. The festival, dedicated to the Sun God, sees massive pilgrim influx, prompting these coordinated measures to manage devotees while facilitating traditional rituals and Vahana Sevas smoothly.
Harrison Ford's Hidden Gem "The Age of Adaline" Is a Timeless Fantasy
US: While known for sci-fi and action, Harrison Ford's sole fantasy film is 2015's "The Age of Adaline." This romantic drama follows a woman who stops aging after an accident. Ford plays a key supporting role in this elegant, time-bending tale. Critics note the film has aged beautifully, becoming a beloved sleeper hit. It is currently available to stream on Peacock for those seeking a unique and poignant story.
Australia Sizzles and Burns in Dual Climate Crisis
US: Australia faces a severe and concurrent climate emergency. Victoria is enduring its worst heatwave since the 2009 Black Saturday disasters, with temperatures forecast to hit 49°C in the Mallee, triggering bushfires and health alerts from smoke. Meanwhile, Western Australia is preparing for Tropical Cyclone Luana. The nation is under extreme stress from opposing weather extremes, with live trackers monitoring record-breaking heat across multiple states.
Brooks Nader Denies Ben Affleck Dating Rumors
US: Model Brooks Nader has directly addressed and shut down rumors that she is "hooking up" with Ben Affleck. The speculation began with a tabloid report claiming the actor couldn't "wipe the smile off his face." Nader has now clarified the situation, stating the dating allegations are completely false and that the two are not involved romantically.
MobLand Creator's Thrillers Dominate Charts as New Series 'Heel' Looms
US: Ronan Bennett, creator of the hit series "MobLand," is seeing a major resurgence of his work. Both his crime drama "MobLand" and his espionage thriller "Day of the Jackal" are climbing streaming and digital charts. This buzz coincides with the upcoming release of his new twisted thriller "Heel," starring Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough, suggesting a peak in audience demand for Bennett's intense storytelling.
Brosnan's Bond Flop & New Film Spark Local Pride
US: While Pierce Brosnan's final Bond film, "Die Another Day," faces renewed criticism as a franchise low point, the actor is generating positive headlines elsewhere. His latest project, "Giant," is spotlighting fresh talent from Northern England. The film features working-class actors from Bradford and an aspiring actress from Burnley, who describe the experience of starring alongside Brosnan as "surreal." This contrast highlights both cinematic legacy and new opportunities.
Glen Powell's Country Film Enlists 'A Star Is Born' Songwriter
US: Glen Powell's upcoming country western movie has secured a major musical talent. Lukas Nelson, who co-wrote songs for the 2018 version of 'A Star Is Born,' is set to contribute original music for the film. This news comes as Powell is also generating buzz for his role in the A24 thriller 'How to Make a Killing,' showcased in a new poster.
Nations Forge New Tourism Era at Madrid Summit
US: The inaugural International Summit on Communication and Tourism in Madrid united nations including Spain, Mexico, Portugal, the Dominican Republic, and Cabo Verde. The event focused on revolutionizing tourism through innovative communication strategies and storytelling. The goal is to shape global industry narratives, moving beyond traditional marketing to build stronger destination identities and foster sustainable growth. Participants aim to establish this summit as a major annual milestone for international tourism collaboration.
Nuuk Blackout Sparks Bizarre Trump Invasion Theories
US: A city-wide power outage in Nuuk, Greenland's capital, has triggered online speculation and conspiracy theories, with some social media users bizarrely suggesting it could precede a military invasion by former U.S. President Donald Trump. While authorities confirmed the blackout was caused by an accident at the electrical utility, the incident highlights how real-world events can quickly fuel unfounded rumors in the digital age.
Silver Soars: New Record Highs Challenge Gold
IN: Silver prices are skyrocketing, hitting unprecedented record highs in both international and Indian markets. The surge is attributed to a combination of speculative trading, strong industrial demand, and complex mining dynamics. In India, prices for gold and silver have jumped dramatically, with silver's performance rivaling that of gold. This trend is prompting widespread discussion among investors and analysts about the reasons behind the relentless rally and its sustainability.
Nuuk Blackout Sparks Bizarre Trump Invasion Rumors
US: A sudden power outage in Nuuk, Greenland's capital, plunged the city into darkness, leading to widespread speculation and anxiety on social media. While authorities worked to restore electricity, online rumors bizarrely linked the blackout to fears of a military takeover by former U.S. President Donald Trump, referencing his past interest in purchasing the island. The incident has raised serious concerns about public preparedness and the rapid spread of misinformation during civic emergencies.
Narmada Jayanti Celebrated with Grandeur in MP
IN: Madhya Pradesh celebrated Narmada Jayanti with grand events. In Narmadapuram, CM Mohan Yadav performed the 'Bhoomi Pujan' for 'Narmadalok' and a massive 2-quintal trident was unveiled. In Jabalpur, devotees offered a 1100-foot-long 'chunri' to the river goddess, accompanied by milk abhishek and a grand aarti. Similar evening Maha Aarti ceremonies were held in Anuppur, marking the birth festival of the revered Narmada river with widespread devotion and cultural fervor.
Spielberg's Divisive Sci-Fi Hit Finds New Life on Streaming
GB: Steven Spielberg's 2018 sci-fi adventure "Ready Player One" is experiencing a major resurgence on Amazon Prime Video, trending high months before his return to sci-fi. Once considered a disappointment by some critics, the film's vibrant virtual world and pop-culture spectacle are finding a passionate audience. Its streaming success highlights how platforms can redefine a film's legacy, coinciding with news of another acclaimed but underrated film trending on the service.
Stallone & Amazon: "Rocky" Partnership Lands New Mega-Deal
US: Sylvester Stallone's production company, Balboa Productions, has renewed its first-look film and television deal with Amazon MGM Studios. The multi-year agreement ensures the 79-year-old action star and his team will develop new projects for Amazon's platforms. This continues a successful partnership that has already produced content like the "Tulsa King" series. The deal underscores Amazon's commitment to working with top-tier Hollywood talent and franchises.
Glen Powell's "Running Man" Flops in Theaters, Conquers Streaming
US: Glen Powell's 2025 sci-fi remake "The Running Man," a Stephen King adaptation that bombed at the box office, is finding major redemption on streaming. It's currently trending #1 in the U.S., with critics and audiences now praising it as an improvement over the 1987 original. The film's streaming success highlights the growing divide between theatrical performance and at-home popularity.
VA Pushes New Gun Ban, MD Law Upheld
US: Virginia Democrats, bolstered by Rep. Abigail Spanberger's support, are reintroducing state-level assault weapons ban legislation. This follows a similar bill proposed by a Fairfax legislator. Meanwhile, in neighboring Maryland, a federal appeals court largely upheld a state law banning firearms in "sensitive places," signaling a legal win for gun control advocates in the region. These developments highlight ongoing legislative and judicial battles over gun laws in the Mid-Atlantic states.
Amy Madigan's Stunning Oscar Return After 40 Years
US: Actress Amy Madigan has earned her first Oscar nomination in four decades for her role in "Weapons." The veteran performer, supported by husband Ed Harris, is "stunned" by the recognition. In interviews, she discusses the film's potential prequel and her upcoming Apple thriller "Sponsor," marking a major career resurgence in this year's awards race.
RHCP Producer Claims Frontman Anthony Kiedis Is "Tone Deaf"
US: A producer for the Red Hot Chili Peppers has made the shocking claim that frontman Anthony Kiedis is "tone deaf" and cannot hear pitch. The comments, reported by multiple music news outlets, suggest a significant musical hurdle for the legendary rock band's singer. Despite this alleged challenge, Kiedis has fronted the band to global success for over four decades, known for his energetic rap-singing style and charismatic stage presence.
Blake Lively's Alleged Texts Spark Hollywood Controversy
US: A series of alleged private messages from Blake Lively have ignited controversy. One text suggests she knew co-star Justin Baldoni inquired about her weight for a film scene, raising questions about on-set conduct. Separate reports claim she messaged Ben Affleck and Matt Damon about her movie "It Ends With Us," while another story links the scandal to Taylor Swift. The leaks have created a multifaceted media storm around Lively and her circle.
Is Monica Dead? 'Marshals' Trailer Sparks Major Yellowstone Mystery
US: The new trailer for the Yellowstone spinoff "Marshals" has fans speculating about a major character's fate. While Kayce Dutton is shown grieving and seeking vengeance, his wife Monica is conspicuously absent from the footage. This glaring omission has led to widespread theory that Monica may have been killed off, setting Kayce on his dark and violent path in the new series.
USA Rare Earth Stock Surges as Domestic Demand Grows
US: USA Rare Earth's stock is rising sharply, with its Relative Strength rating jumping to 91 and shares up approximately 20%. The surge is driven by the company's strategic positioning to address a critical national need: supplying rare earth magnets essential for defense, technology, and green energy. As America seeks to reduce reliance on foreign sources, the company is emerging as a key domestic player in this vital supply chain.
Dragon Ball's Future: New Game & 2026 Comeback Teased
US: The Dragon Ball universe is expanding with major announcements. A new game, "Dragon Ball: Age 1000," has been revealed for a 2027 release, promising a fresh narrative. This follows the upcoming "Dragon Ball Super" anime comeback, heavily anticipated for 2026. Fans can also engage with the franchise this weekend through the live-streamed Dragon Ball Genkidama Matsuri event. Together, these developments mark an exciting new era for the legendary series.
Dragon Ball Super: Galactic Patrol Anime Announced for 2026
CA: A new "Dragon Ball Super" anime, "The Galactic Patrol," has been officially announced. Serving as a sequel to the Tournament of Power arc, the series will adapt the popular Galactic Patrol Prisoner (Moro) Arc from the manga. The anime is currently in production and is slated for release in 2026, continuing the adventures of Goku and his allies.
Bank of England Admits Major Inflation Miscalculation
US: The Bank of England has publicly admitted it significantly underestimated the severity and persistence of the recent inflation crisis. Officials acknowledged failures in forecasting models and policy responses, which allowed price growth to soar higher and longer than anticipated. This rare admission from the central bank follows intense scrutiny over its handling of the economy.
Italy Recalls Envoy as Swiss Court Frees Bar Fire Suspect
US: Italy has recalled its ambassador to Switzerland in protest after a Swiss court released the Italian owner of a Crans-Montana bar on bail. The suspect is accused of causing a fatal New Year's fire that killed many young Italians. The decision has sparked outrage in Italy, with officials calling it "shocking." The diplomatic move underscores the severe tension between the two nations following the judicial ruling.
Your Lucky Week Ahead: Zodiacs Set for Wealth & Joy
IN: This week's horoscope brings positive news for several zodiac signs. Aries natives can expect happiness and reduced stress, while Capricorns should prepare for a significant week ahead. Notably, five signs are highlighted as particularly lucky, and six signs, including Aquarius, are predicted to receive financial gains. The forecasts cover the period from January 26th to February 1st, 2026.
Houston Power Outages Dip Ahead of Winter Storm
US: As a winter storm approaches Southeast Texas, power outage trackers show a positive trend. Reports indicate fewer outages in the Houston area heading into the severe weather. Residents are advised to use utility maps, like CenterPoint Energy's Outage Tracker, to monitor local power status and report disruptions. These tools provide crucial real-time information for communities preparing for potential impacts from the storm.